NPCC Calls for Strategic Measures to Actualize 24-Hour Port Operations Across Nigeria

The Nigerian Ports Consultative Council (NPCC) has renewed its call for urgent, strategic actions toward the realization of 24-hour port operations in Nigeria’s seaports—a transformative step deemed crucial for unlocking the full potential of the maritime sector.

Speaking during the 5th JournalNG Port Industry Town Hall Meeting held in Apapa, the Chairman of the NPCC, Mr. Bolaji Sunmola, delivered a comprehensive policy address emphasizing that the nation’s seaports—responsible for over 85% of Nigeria’s external trade—continue to underperform due to several persistent challenges.

Mr. Sunmola highlighted key obstacles hindering port efficiency, including decaying infrastructure, limited operational hours, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and fragmented regulatory systems. He noted that unlike globally competitive ports such as Singapore, Rotterdam, and Busan—which run seamlessly round-the-clock—Nigerian ports continue to experience nightly downtime, resulting in increased logistics costs and operational inefficiencies.

“To bridge this critical gap, we must pursue a strategic and sustainable pathway that prioritizes 24-hour port operations, underpinned by modern technology, coordinated systems, and cross-sector collaboration,” Mr. Sunmola stated.

Key Recommendations by NPCC:

• Technology and Digital Infrastructure: Full implementation of Port Community Systems and digital platforms for scheduling, tracking, and customs clearance to eliminate unnecessary delays.
• Labour and Safety Measures: Adoption of incentivized shift systems alongside strengthened safety protocols for night-time workers to ensure continuous operations without compromising workforce welfare.
• Infrastructure and Security Enhancements: Investment in lighting, surveillance systems, and road infrastructure to create a safe and efficient environment for 24/7 activities.
• Unified Regulatory Framework: Introduction of a digitized, multi-agency coordination framework to reduce inter-agency conflicts, delays, and corruption.
• Sustainable Energy Solutions: Deployment of hybrid microgrids and solar power infrastructure, drawing from successful local and international energy models, to ensure reliable and cost-effective power supply to port facilities.

Mr. Sunmola reaffirmed Nigeria’s maritime potential, citing the country’s strategic geographical location, market size, and skilled human capital as strong advantages. He called for alignment among all stakeholders—government agencies, port operators, energy providers, and investors—to champion the transition toward full 24-hour operations.

“With a carefully sequenced strategy anchored on technology, sustainability, and unified stakeholder efforts, Nigeria can reposition its ports as efficient, secure, and economically transformative hubs, setting a new benchmark for maritime leadership across Africa,” Mr. Sunmola concluded.