Nigeria’s Federal Government Pledges 100% Cargo Scanning at Ports for Improved Efficiency

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced its commitment to enhance the efficiency of ports’ operations by implementing 100% scanning of cargo, as opposed to the current practice of physical inspection.

This move comes as part of the government’s plans to boost the marine economy and achieve a $1 trillion target.

In a meeting with the Chief Executive Officer of APM Terminals, Nigeria, Frederik Klinke, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Marine, and Blue Economy, Olufemi Oloruntola, emphasized the government’s determination to upgrade the cargo scanning system from the current 25% to 100% by procuring four additional scanners.

This will not only enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of ports’ operations but also contribute to the overall economic growth of the country.

APM Terminals, which has its largest terminals’ operations concentrated in Onne Ports, has invested $110 million in the Nigerian ports and is now looking to replicate a similar feat in Apapa, Lagos Ports.

The company also operates the Inland Dry Port in Kano.

During the meeting, Mr. Klinke highlighted the importance of developing Nigeria’s supply chains to support economic growth and the realization of the $1 trillion target for the marine economy.

He further requested that the government consider APMT’s interest in the Badagry Port, where the company already has terminal and shipping interests.

The government was also urged to link rail connections to the terminal operations at Onne Port to further improve the efficiency of the ports.

The Federal Government’s commitment to enhance the ports’ operations through 100% cargo scanning and its willingness to collaborate with companies like APM Terminals demonstrates a strong focus on boosting the marine economy and achieving the $1 trillion target.

With continued investments and improvements in ports’ infrastructure, Nigeria is poised to significantly contribute to the growth of its economy and the development of its supply chains.