In line with a recent directive given by the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Dr Salami Olufemi, trucks transporting export containers and empty ones will not be allowed to access the Tin Can Island Port between June 28 and July 1.
Reason for this: The Lagos State Government barred trucks from entering the port because there is an ongoing heavy construction work around the Mile 2–Apapa axis.
The directive also disclosed that it had secured a 12-day demurrage extension period for the operators.
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“Due to ongoing re-construction work on Apapa-Oshodi Express Road, Creek Road and Liverpool Road, all in Apapa Port area, there are currently massive road diversions and ongoing port operations enhancement
“With effect from midnight, Thursday, June 27, 2019, trucks carrying export and empty containers for Tin Can Island Port operations are to stay out of Lagos for the next three days, until Monday, July 1, to allow for the palliatives and opening of the axis for truck use. Also note that the government has secured a 12-day demurrage period extension.
“All trucks approaching Apapa Wharf Port are to approach the port via Wharf Road (Ijora, Orile and Iganmu) through their various nominated parks and Lilypond transit truck park.”
The Lagos State Government equally directed loaded trucks from Tin Can Island Port to exit through the Apapa Oshodi Express Road service lane via Liverpool Road roundabout and Coconut.
What does this mean for business? The Tin Can Island port is Nigeria’s main port. Through this port, a lot of goods (raw materials and finished products) are imported. In other words, it is a major trade gateway for the country, and its temporary shutting off of trucks will definitely have a slightly negative effect on the economy.
Fortunately, this is only temporary. Moreover, the purpose for the shutoff is to repair roads which will subsequently facilitate easier movement of trucks.
