Former Port Manager at Tin Can Island Port, Sylvester Egede, has revealed the strategy deployed to the successful clearance of the long-standing Mile 2-Tin Can port corridor gridlock in his memoir titled ‘Lion of the Port Corridor: Strategy Is Everything’.

Speaking at the launch in Lagos, Egede said the book was inspired largely by his experience during his first four years in office as the port manager when traffic congestion caused by indiscriminate parking of trucks along the corridor was resolved without the use of force.

He noted that his role in clearing the traffic congestion along the port corridor was a defining moment – an achievement, which stood out in a country where several committees had previously failed to find a lasting solution.

Egede disclosed that the breakthrough was achieved through engagement and strategy rather than coercion, stressing that truckers vacated the corridor voluntarily after constructive dialogue.

He explained that the approach was anchored on a SWOT analysis assessing strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to properly understand the problem and design an effective response.

Egede disclosed that the truckers complied with an agreed deadline after being assured that an alternative truck park would be provided.

He added that a suitable location capable of accommodating about 4,000 trucks has since been identified in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.

Reflecting on leadership and governance, Egede urged decision-makers to look beyond surface issues when addressing complex challenges, noting that solutions are often closer than imagined.

He said the memoir documents key lessons from his career at the Nigerian Ports Authority, emphasising that strategy, insight and deep thinking remain critical to solving persistent national problems.

In his keynote address, former President, Ship Owners Association of Nigeria (SOAN), Dr. MkGeorge Oyung, emphasised the critical role of port corridors in international trade.

He described the port corridor as the integrated network of transport infrastructure and services that ensures goods move efficiently from ports to hinterlands.

Oyung further emphasised the strategic and economic importance of ports, noting that a single large vessel can carry multiple cargoes, making maritime transport cost-effective, environmentally friendly and safe.

He highlighted Nigeria’s advantage in the post-Panama shipping era and the need for smooth port corridors to maintain efficiency in the global ocean economy, which he described as the seventh largest in the world.

Oyung stressed that no nation in the world can make it without an efficient port, while commending Egede’s commitment to ensuring a smooth port’s operation while in service.

The Managing Director, NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, acknowledged Egede’s significant contributions and penchant for excellence across several endeavours, noting that the book marks a significant step towards spotlighting an individual who, through service, has shaped growth in the nation’s maritime sector.

Dantsoho, who was represented by the General Manager, MD’s Office, Mr. Fatai Oladipo, congratulated Egede on documenting his memoir for other professionals to learn from while saluting him for his contribution to Nigeria’s port development throughout his period of service.