Apapa traffic eases as NPA’s 24/7 oversight pays off – LASTCOC

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Nigerian Ports Authority’s (NPA) sustained round-the-clock oversight traffic management at the Apapa port has earned praise from the Lagos State Truck and Cargo Operators Committee (LASTCOC).

Apapa traffic congestion had worsened in recent weeks due to repair works on the Marine Bridge by the Federal Ministry of Works, causing export and import trucks to be stranded along the Ijora-Apapa axis.

However, LASTCOC reports that the situation has improved significantly thanks to the NPA leadership’s increased on-ground oversight, particularly the Apapa Port Manager’s efforts.

In a statement, LASTCOC Chairman, Shittu Lukmon, said the NPA’s sustained 24-hour traffic management efforts have eased bottlenecks at the Lagos Port Complex (LPC) and reduced congestion across Export Processing Terminals (EPTs) despite the ongoing construction.

He credited the Apapa Port Manager’s “unusual commitment” for the turnaround, noting that his daily presence—often extending into weekends—has reassured the trucking community and ensured smoother truck movement into and out of the port.

“This is commendable work from the Apapa Port Manager,” Lukmon said. “I have never seen a port manager like him. I’ve seen him at the port on Saturdays and Sundays, making sure the entire system runs seamlessly.”

LASTCOC urged operators to continue supporting the NPA’s efforts, stressing that improved collaboration is essential to sustaining efficiency at the Lagos Port Complex while the repair works continue.