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NPA Activates Electronic Barrier System to Combat Unauthorized Truck Diversions at Apapa Port
NPA Activates Electronic Barrier System to Combat Unauthorized Truck Diversions at Apapa Port
Lagos – The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has deployed electronic barrier systems across all terminal access points at Lagos Port Complex, Apapa, as part of its strategy to tackle persistent unauthorized truck diversions that have hampered port operations.
The initiative, spearheaded by NPA Managing Director Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, went fully operational on Monday, September 2, 2025, following extensive stakeholder consultations.
The electronic barriers have been integrated with the Eto Electronic Call-Up System, operated by Trucks Transit Parks Ltd (TTP), to ensure only trucks with valid call-up tickets gain terminal access. This measure is expected to eliminate unauthorized entries and strengthen gate control operations.
“This integration guarantees that only trucks with valid Eto-issued call-up tickets are granted access to terminal facilities, thereby eliminating unauthorized entries and enhancing gate control operations,” NPA management stated in a release.
The deployment addresses longstanding challenges with unauthorized truck diversions that have negatively impacted terminal efficiency, traffic flow, and overall port productivity at one of West Africa’s busiest ports.
The electronic barrier system represents another milestone in NPA’s broader automation and modernization program for Nigerian port infrastructure. The authority said the initiative aligns with several strategic objectives, including supporting the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business Agenda, promoting operational transparency, and enhancing port efficiency.
“This milestone represents a significant advancement in the Authority’s drive for enhanced automation and modernization of port infrastructure in Nigeria,” the management noted.
The NPA expressed appreciation to stakeholders for their cooperation throughout the implementation process and reaffirmed its commitment to innovative solutions that improve service delivery.
The authority maintains its vision of positioning Nigerian ports as the hub for maritime logistics and sustainable port services across Africa, with the electronic barrier system serving as a key component in achieving enhanced security and business-friendly operations.
Industry observers expect the system to significantly improve truck traffic management at the chronically congested Apapa port, where unauthorized vehicle movements have long disrupted terminal operations and cargo clearance processes.
The full deployment follows successful pilot testing and represents one of the most comprehensive traffic management upgrades implemented at Nigerian ports in recent years.