NPA Launches Movement Code to Ease Apapa Port Truck Congestion

By Adedapo Adesanya

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has introduced a movement code to streamline the movement of empty containers into seaport terminals and reduce traffic congestion caused by container trucks along the Apapa and Tin Can Island port corridors.

Under the new policy, the movement code will serve as a unique identifier generated by a holding bay for every empty container uploaded to the Electronic Call-Up (ETO) platform.

The code must correspond with the details captured on the ETO system before trucks are granted access to port terminals.

In a notice issued to stakeholders, the port authority said the movement code had become a mandatory requirement for completing the truck-container matching process. Truck drivers are required to obtain the code from designated holding bays before proceeding to the ports.

According to the NPA, the initiative is designed to ensure that each truck is matched exclusively to its designated empty container, eliminate multiple allocations, improve traffic management and enhance operational efficiency within the port corridor.

The port regulator explained that the new requirement forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the electronic call-up system, facilitate the seamless evacuation and return of empty containers, and improve compliance with port access protocols.

“Following our recent engagement with holding bays, we wish to inform all stakeholders of the introduction of the movement code for empty container matching on the ETO platform.

“This update is designed to ensure that trucks are matched only to the specific empty container they are authorised to convey. It will also help prevent the practice of matching trucks to unrelated containers to secure an earlier position, followed by requests for container changes closer to port entry,” the notice reads.

The NPA, in recent years, has been trying to reduce congestion and make accessibility to Nigeria’s busiest ports easier, but many of the solutions have not been fruitful.