Apapa Traffic: Firm Seeks Deployment Of E-tag, Transaction Number For Trucks

To tackle the resurgence of traffic on the Apapa and Tin-Can Island port access roads, Trucks Transit Parks Limited (TTP), on Friday, called for urgent deployment and implementation of Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID)/E-tags and the E-Call-up Interchange Transaction Number (EITN) to streamline truck movements within Lagos ports.

This call was reiterated during a recent Stakeholders Engagement Forum held at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Headquarters recently, aimed at assessing the efficiency of the Electronic Call-up System amid the resurgence of traffic gridlock along the Apapa Port corridor.

LEADERSHIP reports that the challenges discussed during the forum included the drop in terminal efficiency, which has contributed significantly to the persistent gridlock at port corridors; the status of information technology infrastructure installations across park facilities, with some parks allegedly operating without fulfilling standard requirements.

Concerns were also raised about wet cargo operations, emphasising the need for an electronic call-up system for tanker operations to alleviate congestion. Truckers’ attitudes toward standard operating procedures for the E-call-up system were also identified as a major driver of congestion.

In light of these challenges, TTP proposed the deployment of E-tags to improve the electronic call-up system deployed for the Apapa and Tin Can ports. The E-tags affixed to vehicle windshields offer a seamless and automated approach to access control. E-tag readers at entry and exit gates integrate with the access barrier system, improving security and access control. The integration with the ètò solution streamlines the truck scheduling process, leading to benefits such as fast cargo evacuation, reduced human interaction, improved security, and cost-effectiveness.

TTP’s Managing Director and Co-founder, Jama Onwubuariri, emphasised the importance of deploying RFID/E-tags and EITN, stating, “The deployment of RFID/E-tag and EITN is pivotal to addressing the challenges faced in the Lagos ports. TTP is committed to providing innovative solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce congestion, and create a seamless experience for stakeholders in the maritime sector.”

Furthermore, TTP recommended the implementation of EITN for Apapa and Tin Can Ports, describing it as a key transaction and traffic cycle correlation measure.

This feature, implemented in line with its design, ensures high volumes of legitimate bookings, reduces illegitimate traffic, and enhances transaction phase correlation. It provides better coordination of truck movements within ports, prevents crisscrossing between terminals, and supports integrated security check activities.