Nigeria loses a staggering N2.5 trillion annually due to inefficiencies in maritime logistics, according to Truck Transit Parks (TTP), promoters of the Electronic Call up System (ETO).
The Managing Director of TTP, Mr. Jama Onwubuariri, revealed this at the 2025 Transportation Correspondents Association annual conference. He attributed the massive loss to gridlock crises and extortion at ports.
The cost surged due to inefficiencies and extortion as transporters could not work efficiently. “Cost surged due to inefficiencies and extortion as transporters could not work efficiently as only 50 trucks were evacuated daily from one terminal operator,” Onwubuariri said. This has led to increased costs and reduced productivity.
During the gridlock crisis, traffic stretched from Cele Expressway to Maryland in Ikeja, as trucks queued endlessly to access Apapa and Tin Can Ports. Onwubuariri emphasized the urgent need for collaborative partnerships between government, private sector, and regional bodies to drive progress in the logistics sector.
Deployment of digital tools like TTP’s Ètò App has revolutionized traffic management at the ports in Lagos. This technology has the potential to transform the maritime industry by streamlining operations and reducing costs. Onwubuariri noted that such partnerships are key to successful logistics sector reforms.
The inefficiencies in maritime logistics have far reaching consequences on the economy, including increased costs, reduced productivity, and decreased competitiveness. The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) have also highlighted the need for reforms.
The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has started port modernization projects across Apapa and Tin Can, including upgrades and automation of terminal operations. This move is expected to improve efficiency and reduce costs in the maritime sector.