Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has said it is sourcing low-cost funds to fully modernise its existing ports to accommodate modern cargo handling equipment, reduce vessel turn-around time and improve the berth occupancy factor.
The Managing Director of NPA, Mohammed Bello-Koko stated this while disclosing the authority’s 2024 goals and plans towards achieving better port operations.
He said the authority is reviewing all available funding options to commence immediate reconstruction of the Tin Can Island Port Complex, Berth 4-14 in Apapa Port Complex, Berth 2 in Onne, Terminal C in Warri and Warri Jetties.
Bello-Koko said the authority is awaiting the necessary approvals for the funding of the reconstruction of the aged Tin Can Island port complex and rehabilitation of challenged aspects of all port locations.
The NPA boss disclosed that the Port Community System (PCS) will go live this year to streamline port operations and improve data exchange and port efficiency.
He said the Authority has sustained updating of port systems automation with the ongoing collaboration with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) for the development of the PCS, which lays the groundwork for the National Single Window (NSW)
Bello-Koko also assured the authority’s plan to complete the launch of an upgraded version of the Revenue Invoice Management System (RIMS) 2.0, the automation of port-ship reception and billing payment, to address the shortfalls of the earlier version in the first quarter of 2024.
He said efforts to deploy Vessel Tracking Services (VTS) and harbour automation that are necessary to ensure security and safe navigation have reached an advanced stage and will be deployed this year.
Bello-Koko added that the National Ports Master plan will also come into effect by June this year to guide NPA’s investment and expansion plans.
Speaking on diversification of revenue sources, Bello-Koko said his team is already looking beyond sole dependence on revenue from core port operations in a bid to surpass the current revenue performance.
According to him, the NPA management has already put modalities in place to create jobs and add value to the national economy from alternative sources of revenue through Public Private Partnerships.
Others, he said include ports for independent power production, bunkering stations, fallow lands for logistics/real estate, freshwater provision, ship repairs and maintenance, tourism and hospitality.
