The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has praised the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and Truck Transit Parks Ltd for their efforts in improving traffic management around Lagos ports.
NAGAFF President, High Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, commended the organisations for introducing reforms that have eased gridlock and brought relief to businesses and stakeholders.
According to Ezisi, the introduction of the Eto electronic call-up system has been a game-changer, reducing truck turnaround time from weeks to less than three days and slashing cargo transportation costs by about 65 per cent. The system has also led to increased efficiency in cargo handling, with over 2.7 million truck movements processed through the Eto platform in less than four years.
The benefits of the Eto system are far-reaching, with the FMCG and Oil & Gas sectors now evacuating over 400 trucks daily, compared to fewer than 50 in the pre-Eto era. Exporters are also benefiting from reduced delays in moving goods to international markets, and foreign buyers no longer demand performance bonds from Nigerian exporters.
The improved system has also had a positive impact on the real estate market in Apapa, with property values appreciating in recent years. Additionally, the Eto initiative has created jobs, with about 225 direct jobs and over 500 ancillary roles generated in the port environment.
Ezisi emphasised the need for government authorities to sustain the reforms and prevent a relapse into chaos. He commended NPA, TTP, and other stakeholders for proving that indigenous solutions can address Nigeria’s logistics challenges.