The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), under the Federal government’s initiative, has recently launched modern Control Towers at the Lagos and Tin Can Island Port complexes.
The primary objective is to enhance efficiency and boost revenue generation.
During the inauguration on Thursday, Mr. Mohammed Bello Koko, the Managing Director of NPA, emphasized the significance of safety and security as crucial factors for achieving the Authority’s regional hub status.
He also called for facility users to maintain it adequately and improve their maintenance culture.
Koko highlighted that the Control Towers would enhance the port’s capacity and service delivery for industry stakeholders while promoting collaboration among government agencies.
Koko stated, “The commissioning of the control tower signifies our unwavering commitment to enhancing operational efficiency through the aggressive renewal of infrastructure and equipment.
The control tower enables various essential functions such as Vessel Traffic Management, Navigation Assistance, Advance Visibility, Safety and Security, Emergency Response, Communication, Resource Management, and Disaster Risk Mitigation. This is why we prioritized equipping this facility as our management team.”
He assured the audience that beyond the commissioning, the NPA is dedicated to continuously equipping and re-equipping the facility, providing top-notch training to its users to maintain the highest standards.
Koko urged all users to maximize the benefits of the facility, emphasizing the importance of realizing value for the money invested.
Koko also mentioned the partnership between the NPA and NLNG Ship Management Limited to provide VTS (Vessel Traffic Services) for improved operational efficiency.
In line with the NPA’s commitment to fostering collaboration with sister agencies, a building facility has been constructed to enhance operational comfort for government agencies operating within the ports of Tin Can and Apapa.
Koko reiterated that safety and security are critical prerequisites for realizing their strategic objective of becoming the maritime logistics hub for sustainable port services in Africa.