The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has ramped up its efforts to increase cargo traffic at Delta Port, despite the prevailing economic difficulties.
The Authority’s current leadership, spearheaded by Abubakar Dantsoho, has managed to maintain a steady flow of business operations.
This progress can be attributed to recent key initiatives such as the renovation of the Control Tower and enhanced security measures, all aimed at boosting efficiency and safety at the port.
Delta Port’s Manager, Sa’adu Dahiru Mohammed, praised the NPA’s management team for procuring tugboats, which he highlighted as crucial in ensuring smooth port operations and attracting more business.
“The increased business assurance is an attraction for guaranteed increased patronage,” he stated, reflecting the broader optimism within the port.
Ikechukwu Onyemekara, the General Manager for Corporate and Strategic Communication at NPA, echoed these sentiments.
He emphasized that the strategic initiatives introduced by Managing Director Abubakar Dantsoho, such as infrastructure upgrades, dredging projects, new berth constructions, and the integration of digital technologies, are all essential in positioning Delta Port as a key hub for maritime trade within Nigeria.
Onyemekara further remarked that these efforts aim to handle increasing trade volumes and improve overall efficiency at the port, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic growth.
The terminal operators at Delta Port have also expressed their appreciation for these developments. Mr. Efole Cletus, Terminal Coordinator for Associated Maritime Services Ltd (AMS), provided insight into the positive changes in Terminal A’s operations, particularly since the start of 2024.
He reported that AMS had seen a marked improvement in its business environment. “The business environment has been friendly and better than the previous year, especially after sweeping the berth from 5.6 to 8 meters,” Cletus noted.
He explained that dredging efforts have enhanced operations, allowing larger vessels to dock, thus increasing the tonnage of bulk wheat being handled per ship.
Detailing the terminal’s activities, Mr. Cletus mentioned that cargo clearance is efficiently managed via a conveyor belt system that delivers goods directly to a silo.
The terminal has consistently processed around 15,000 metric tons of cargo each month since January, and vessel berth times at Terminal A typically last no more than five days, depending on weather conditions.
Additionally, the charges levied are in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) from the Nigerian Ports Authority.
The recent rehabilitation of access roads has also contributed positively to the terminal’s efficiency. However, Mr. Cletus stressed that more work remains to be done, particularly regarding road traffic management.
He further suggested that the introduction of 24-hour pilotage services by the NPA could drastically improve cargo evacuation in the near future.
Security and safety at AMS are treated as top priorities, with the terminal operating under strict International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) guidelines.
The terminal is fortified with a range of security measures, including a robust guard force, CCTV surveillance, ample lighting, and electronic gates, all of which ensure the protection of both personnel and cargo. “We have safe and secured terminal operations at all times,” affirmed Mr. Cletus.
In terms of community relations, AMS maintains a “very cordial” relationship with its host communities, actively participating in corporate social responsibility initiatives.
This strong community engagement, according to Mr. Cletus, is instrumental in ensuring the smooth operation of the terminal and securing local support.
Looking ahead, AMS remains optimistic about 2024, forecasting increased vessel traffic and a growing number of clients and port users.
The company also plans to make further investments in security and safety to sustain this growth. Nevertheless, Mr. Cletus pointed out several areas where further attention is needed from NPA management.
Specifically, he called for the repair of the collapsed breakwaters and the dredging of the Warri/Escravos channels to accommodate larger vessels.
“This will avert the incessant going aground of vessels while crossing the breakwaters,” he emphasized, adding that engaging a dedicated Channel Management Company, as other Nigerian ports have done, would improve overall operational efficiency.
The leadership changes at NPA have also drawn attention, particularly the appointment of Ikechukwu Chika Onyemekara as the new General Manager for Corporate and Strategic Communication.
His appointment has been met with widespread approval from stakeholders within the maritime sector, many of whom have praised his leadership and communication skills.
Onyemekara brings over three decades of experience to his new role. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing and an MBA in the same field.
Since joining NPA in 1992 as a marketing officer, Onyemekara has demonstrated exceptional skill in navigating the complexities of the maritime industry.
His interpersonal and stakeholder management abilities saw him take on increasingly strategic roles within the organization, particularly in the commercial department.
His contributions did not go unnoticed, and NPA management soon transferred him to the Public Affairs Division, where he excelled in handling media relations, government engagements, and diplomatic affairs on behalf of various NPA Managing Directors. His success in this role earned him a reputation as a highly effective and results-driven professional.
In addition to his work within NPA, Onyemekara has represented the Authority at international forums, including the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
He has participated in working groups such as the Editorial and Technical (E&T) Group for the IMSBC Code and has attended numerous capacity-building workshops both at home and abroad.
Prior to his current appointment, Onyemekara served as Assistant General Manager for Corporate & Strategic Communications, as well as Technical Assistant Protocol to the Managing Director.
His well-rounded experience and reputation for excellence make him a pivotal figure in NPA’s ongoing efforts to elevate its operations, enhance communication with stakeholders, and drive the future of the maritime industry in Nigeria.
