The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), in partnership with the Lagos State Government and security agencies, has commenced a three-day full-scale clean-up and sensitisation exercise along the Lagos port corridors.

The operation, tagged NPA Security Clearance Operations 2025, aims to decongest the corridors, eliminate security threats and environmental hazards, and enhance port efficiency.

The clean-up covers all access routes to the Tin Can Island Port Complex, Lagos Port Complex, Kirikiri Lighter Terminals I and II, and surrounding areas.

Speaking during the flag-off, NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, said the initiative seeks to clear criminal elements, shanties, kiosks, abandoned machinery, and containers obstructing free traffic flow and threatening the safety of port users, cargo, and vessels.

Represented by the General Manager, Security, Mr. Anthony Edosomwan, Dantsoho noted that the operation aligns with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, a global maritime safety standard under the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).

“Our ports access roads are critical national economic corridors. This operation is vital not only to improve safety and security but also to boost trade facilitation and economic growth. Congestion and delays at these corridors have long hindered the smooth operations of our ports, impacting Nigeria’s GDP,” he stated.

He said the NPA had earlier embarked on a media sensitisation campaign to mobilise stakeholders, including port users, traders, and residents, to support the clean-up.

Dantsoho added that the exercise is part of the authority’s broader initiative to ensure environmental sustainability and maintain a clean, secure, and efficient port environment.

“This clean-up is beneficial not just for port operations but also for the well-being of host communities and the environment,” he said.

He reiterated the NPA’s commitment to tackling congestion and called for public cooperation to ensure the success of the operations.