Firm advocates e-tags for seamless cargo movement at Lagos ports

Trucks Transit Parks Limited (TTP) has said that the implementation of Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID)/electronic-tags and the e-Callup Interchange Transaction Number (EITN) are critical to streamline truck movements within Lagos ports.

It said this at a recent stakeholders’ engagement at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Headquarters aimed at assessing the efficiency of the Electronic Call-up System amid the resurgence of traffic gridlock along the Apapa Port corridor.

Other key challenges discussed during the forum included the drop in terminal efficiency, which has contributed significantly to the persistent gridlock at port corridors; the status of information technology infrastructural installations across park facilities, with some parks allegedly operating without fulfilling standard requirements.

Also, concerns were raised about wet cargo operations, emphasising the need for an electronic call-up system for tanker operations to alleviate congestion.

Truckers’ attitudes toward standard operating procedures for the E-callup system were also identified as a major driver of congestion.

In light of these challenges, TTP proposed the deployment of E-tags to improve the electronic call-up system deployed for the Apapa and Tincan ports.

According to TTP, the e-tags affixed to vehicle windshields, offer a seamless and automated approach to access control.

The technology firm also explained that the e-tag readers at entry and exit gates integrate with the access barrier system, improving security and access control.

The Managing Director and Co-founder, TTP, Jama Onwubuariri, said the integration with the ètò solution streamlines the truck scheduling process, leading to benefits such as fast cargo evacuation, reduced human interaction, improved security, and cost-effectiveness.

He also noted that the implementation of EITN for Apapa and Tincan Ports is a key transaction and traffic cycle correlation measure.

According to him, this feature, implemented in line with its design, ensures high volumes of legitimate bookings, reduces illegitimate traffic, and enhances transaction phase correlation.

He said it also provides better coordination of truck movements within ports, prevents criss-crossing between terminals, and supports integrated security check activities.

Onwubuariri further emphasised the importance of deploying RFID/E-tags and EITN, stating, “The deployment of RFID/E-tag and EITN is pivotal to addressing the challenges faced in the Lagos ports. TTP is committed to providing innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce congestion, and create a seamless experience for stakeholders in the maritime sector.”