NPA Plans Total Automation of Port Operations

Mr. David Omonibeke, executive director, Marine and Operations, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) said the authority will automate all operations in the nation’s ports.

According to him, every port in the country would be a one-stop-shop as, “Stakeholders will not have to run around to do business as their accounts will also be included in the one-stop shop”.

“The NPA, since 2006 has been working on a programme called the Port Community System and just some few days ago, we also met with stakeholders on the issue of having all the information on the screen.

“This management will see how it can annex all the information so that whatever transaction you are doing in the western port will reflect in the East as well,’’ he said.

Omonibeke advised stakeholders to embrace the Information Management System as they were also expected to advertise on the Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screen at the entrance of the Apapa Port.

On his part, Mr Joshua Asanga, general manager, Procurement hinted that the essence of the PIMS was to have a very efficient media to integrate all the port operators and have a flawless information system.

“We believe that we are going to benefit from this as it will give information that will enable stakeholders to plan ahead,’’ Asanga said.

He said that the PIMS would also help in controlling the crowd at the port as there were many people at the port who had no business being there.

“With the LED screen, people will see what they need, so they don’t have to move about. It will also save time, create public awareness and help in securing the port,’’ he said.