Despite skepticism from some quarters, key stakeholders in Nigeria’s maritime and logistics industry have rallied behind the implementation of a fully automated call-up system at the Onne Port in the eastern part of the country. Speaking on the matter, Adeshina Ajibola, a chieftain of the Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO), emphasized that a fully automated system would not only streamline trade operations but also help prevent road accidents caused by indiscriminate truck parking.
In a detailed interview with Vanguard, Ajibola advocated for the reorganization of truck movements in and out of the Federal Ocean Terminal (FOT) and the Federal Lighter Terminal (FLT) at Onne Port. He highlighted the need to remove trucks currently parked along both sides of the access roads, stating that such vehicles should instead be housed in designated truck parks. Ajibola further stressed that automation would enhance data generation regarding throughput and other trade metrics, making operations more transparent and efficient.
According to Ajibola, the failure of the call-up system at Lagos ports was largely due to its quasi-automated nature. He insists that a fully automated version would eliminate inefficiencies and ease the concerns of truckers operating in the area. Comparing Lagos with Onne, he noted that the level of truck congestion witnessed in Lagos is not currently present in Onne but cautioned that proactive steps must be taken to prevent similar issues from arising in the future.
Reinforcing this view, other stakeholders have expressed optimism about the success of the Onne call-up initiative. Mr. John Chukwu, a trucker, admitted that while the system was introduced without extensive consultation with truckers, it remains a policy that must be followed. Another trucker, Mr. Mike Idike, noted that the lessons learned from the Lagos implementation, particularly issues with unauthorized resale of access codes, have informed the development of a more secure system in Onne.
Idike pointed to the deployment of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology as a major improvement. This technology is expected to prevent duplication and resale of access credentials, ensuring that only authorized drivers gain entry through electronically controlled gates. He explained that a significant amount of research has gone into perfecting this version of the call-up system to avoid repeating the mistakes made during the introduction of the Electronic Truck Call-Up (ETO) system in Lagos.
Ayo Durowaye, Chairman of Call Up Technologies, stated that the call-up system was originally piloted in Onne before being replicated in Lagos. He described the port as a strategic national asset that requires strict regulation of vehicle and human traffic for safety and security. According to him, the new system has drastically reduced truck turnaround times—from as long as 12 to 14 days, down to 24 hours—highlighting its operational efficiency.
He also pointed out the environmental hazards caused by trucks parked along roads, including pollution from open defecation. Durowaye argued that critics of the system are typically those who benefit from the unregulated chaos currently surrounding port access routes.
Samuel Ossai, Coordinating Secretary of the Onne Container Truck Drivers, affirmed that drivers are ready and willing to embrace the new system. He accused those opposing the project of acting out of selfish motives and confirmed that efforts are underway to sensitize drivers ahead of its full implementation. Ossai also noted that the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has given the truckers group full backing to proceed with the initiative.
Meanwhile, Chief Godwin Ololuka, Chairman of the Nigerian Port Consultative Council for the Eastern Port, hailed the e-call-up system as a transformative solution for improving business flow at Onne Port. He described the current parking arrangement as chaotic and hazardous, especially along the East-West Road and surrounding communities. According to him, the indiscriminate parking of trucks not only hinders port activities but also endangers local residents, including schoolchildren.
Ololuka noted that four truck parks have been approved to support the system’s rollout, with two already operational and one slated to expand its capacity to accommodate up to 1,000 trucks. He acknowledged resistance from some vested interests who benefit from the disorderly status quo but insisted that the project would proceed. “This system is the future of Onne Port, and we are committed to making it work,” he stated.
Officials from the Nigerian Ports Authority, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the call-up system is a permanent fixture and reiterated the agency’s commitment to embracing reforms that enhance trade and logistics efficiency.
In conclusion, the widespread support from both truck operators and port authorities underscores a collective commitment to transforming Onne Port into a modern, efficient logistics hub through automation and structured truck movement.
