The Nigerian Port Consultative Council (NPCC) and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) have initiated moves to establish the proposed multi-modal transport initiative between both entities.
This, according to available information, is aimed at improving cargo evacuation from the ports through the rail.
The initiative is also expected to revitalize the robust relations between both parties.
Speaking at a meeting in Lagos Headquarters of NRC, Chairman of NPCC, Mr. Bolaji Sunmola, said that the collaboration can significantly enhance efficiency in moving cargoes from the ports.
According to Sunmola, the transformation that has taken place at the NRC can be translated into increased and efficient cargo evacuation at the ports if it is properly harnessed.
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“We believe that a partnership between the NPCC and the NRC could lead to synergies that benefit both the rail and maritime sector.
“By working together, we can address logistical challenges, improve intermodal connectivity and ultimately enhance the overall efficiency of Nigeria’s transport infrastructure,” he stated.
Contributing, a member of the Council, Capt Ebubeogu Ihenacho, said that in international maritime logistics, the port and rail transport must work hand-in-hand.
He added that safety is key to operations of the port industry adding that the rail operations also take cognizance of safety in its operations.
Ebubeogu explained that the level crossing at the Dockyard Road in Apapa has become a source of worry to the Council and called on the management of NRC to ensure that a barrier is constructed as soon as possible to deter people from crossing the rail when a train approaches.
“That axis plays host to so many tank farms and you find these trucks carrying petroleum products. I think this your barrier at the level crossing should be built so as to be sure of the safety of people and properties in that area,” he said.
On his part, Engr. Akin Oshinowo, who represented the Managing Director of NRC, Engr Fidel Okhiria, said that the port operation, before now, was domiciled at the NRC adding that there is a port representative currently at the ports in charge of rail transport.
Oshinowo equally noted that the concession has also fragmented the operations of the NRC at the ports adding that the management will commence moves to ensure that an office for rail operations at the port is made permanent.