Nigerian Ports Authority Introduces New Protocols for Truck Access to Ports

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has introduced significant changes to its truck entry protocols, aiming to eliminate entry infractions and port entry fraud, enhancing efficiency and security at the ports across the country.

Beginning from February 3, 2025, manual presentation of number plates and Minimum Safety Standards (MSS) stickers at port gates will no longer be accepted.

According to a notice issued by Truck Transit Parks Limited on Tuesday, NPA’s technical partner for traffic management, all trucks approaching the port must have their number plates riveted/fastened to the truck in compliance with regulatory requirements.

In addition, trucks must securely affix the original copies of the mandatory MSS stickers to their windscreens as a precondition for port entry.

The NPA has directed the immediate implementation of these revised measures, emphasizing the transition to automated verification as the sole method for entry.

“These changes aim to eliminate entry infractions and tackle issues such as identity theft and the unauthorized exchange of truck documents used to perpetrate port entry fraud,” the notice reads.

The revised protocol is set to take full effect on February 3, 2025.

All truck operators and stakeholders in the port ecosystem are advised to ensure strict compliance, as violations will attract severe sanctions.

The NPA’s efforts to automate its entry protocols are expected to enhance efficiency, security, and transparency in port operations.