NSC charges terminal operators to automate operations

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council, NSC, has charged terminal operators to automate their cargo clearance operations to enhance efficiency at the ports and reduce the current traffic gridlock in and around Apapa.

The Executive Secretary of the Council, Hassan Bello, gave the charge when he led the agency’s management team on a visit to SIFAX Port & Cargo Handling Services, Five Star Logistics Limited and APM Terminals in Lagos.

He stated: “The Ease of Doing Business Executive Order is realizable when there is synergy among various players in the transport and logistics chain. There is need for all terminal operators to register with the Council, as well as maintaining functional websites and proper records of daily transactions, which would help regulators and government in policy formulation.

“The NSC as a port economic regulator is interested in ensuring international best practice, and if other countries could attain the minimum operating standards at the ports, Nigeria should strive to achieve it. The Council is determined to embark on a periodic audit of all terminal operators both manually and electronically.”

Responding, Abayomi Obadare, Wolfgang Schneider and Chris Ulliet, General Managers of SIFAX Port & Cargo Handling Services, Five Star Logistics and APM Terminals respectively expressed optimism that the visit by officials of the NSC had given them an assurance that their present operational challenges would soon become history.

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