The Nigerian Port Consultative Council (NPCC) and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) have stepped up efforts to establish a proposed multi-modal transport initiative between the two entities. The initiative aims to improve cargo evacuation from the ports through rail transport and revitalize the robust relations between the two parties.
During a meeting at the NRC’s Lagos Headquarters, NPCC Chairman Mr. Bolaji Sunmola highlighted the potential for significant efficiency gains in moving cargoes from the ports through collaboration between the two entities. He emphasized the transformative changes at the NRC and the opportunity to harness these improvements for increased and efficient cargo evacuation at the ports.
Capt Ebubeogu Ihenacho, a member of the NPCC, emphasized the importance of collaboration between port and rail transport in international maritime logistics. He highlighted safety as a key factor in the operations of both industries and expressed concerns about the level crossing at Dockyard Road in Apapa. He called on the NRC management to construct a barrier at the level crossing to prevent accidents involving trucks carrying petroleum products.
Engr. Akin Oshinowo, representing the Managing Director of NRC, Engr Fidel Okhiria, acknowledged the historical connection between the port operations and the NRC. He mentioned the fragmented operations of the NRC at the ports due to concessions and expressed the management’s intention to establish a permanent office for rail operations at the ports.
