Traffic: TTP Advocate’s e-tags for Lagos Ports

By Fatima Saka

The Trucks Transit Parks Ltd. (TTP) has called for the implementation of Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID)/E-tags and the E-call-up Interchange Transaction Number (EITN) to streamline truck movements within the Lagos ports.

The TTP’s Managing Director band Co-founder, Mr Jama Onwubuariri, said this in a statement on Friday in Lagos.

Onwubuariri said the call was reiterated during a recent stakeholders engagement forum held at the Nigerian Ports Authority.

He said the forum was aimed at assessing the efficiency of the Electronic Call-up System also known as Eto amid the resurgence of traffic gridlock along the Apapa port corridor.

Onwubuariri said key challenges discussed during the forum include the drop in terminal efficiency, which had contributed significantly to the persistent gridlock at thr port corridors.

According to him, the status of information technology infrastructural installations across park facilities, with some parks allegedly operating without fulfilling standard requirements was also discussed.

“Concerns were also raised about wet cargo operations, emphasising the need for an electronic callup system for tanker operations to alleviate congestion.

“Truckers’ attitudes towards standard operating procedures for the e-callup system were also identified as a major driver of congestion,” he said.

Onwubuariri added that in light of these challenges, TTP proposed the deployment of e-tags to improve the electronic callup system deployed for the Apapa and Tincan ports.

He said the e-tags affixed to vehicle windshields would 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 Eto solution streamlines the truck scheduling process, leading to benefits such as fast cargo evacuation, reduced human interaction, improved security, and cost-effectiveness.

“Furthermore, TTP recommended the implementation of EITN for Apapa and Tincan 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 criss-crossing between terminals, and supports integrated security check activities,” he said.

Onwubuariri emphasised that the deployment of RFID/E-tag and EITN was pivotal to addressing the challenges faced at 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,” he said.

Trucks Transit Parks Ltd., a technology company dedicated to providing tech-based mobility solutions in Africa, continues to play a pivotal role in reducing congestion in the Apapa port economic zone.

With its custom-made software solutions, including ètò, TTP aims to enhance real-time visibility for traffic management, terminals performance, and drivers, contributing to the overall efficiency of the maritime sector.