By Erewunmi Peace

In a major breakthrough for Nigeria’s maritime and logistics industry, the cost of transporting 40-foot containers from the Apapa Port in Lagos has dropped dramatically from ₦1.2 million to ₦350,000, according to industry stakeholders.

The announcement was made by Emeka Chukwumalu, Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Apapa chapter, during a courtesy visit to the new Customs Area Controller, Dr. Babatunde Olomu, at the Apapa Area Command.

Chukwumalu attributed the cost reduction to the improved enforcement of the Nigerian Ports Authority’s electronic call-up system (Eto), which has significantly reduced road congestion, eliminated illegal checkpoints, and curtailed extortion by traffic operatives and area boys.

“Just a few months ago, transporting a container from the port to the warehouse was a nightmare — ₦1.2 million on average. But today, truck owners are charging as low as ₦350,000. This is a huge win for importers and for the Nigerian economy,” Chukwumalu stated.

He commended both the NPA and Nigerian Customs Service for implementing reforms that are beginning to yield measurable results.

Why This Matters:

The high cost of transporting containers has long been a major contributor to inflation, affecting product prices across the country. With this drop in haulage cost, businesses and consumers may soon feel the positive ripple effects in the form of lower prices and smoother supply chain operations.

Customs Controller Dr. Babatunde Olomu pledged continued collaboration with stakeholders to maintain transparency and efficiency within the port environment.