The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has reported 78 incidents at the country’s seaports in the first six months of 2024. These incidents include attacks on vessels, accidents, assaults, and other security breaches.
According to a document presented by Onyenakeya Bartholomew, a Principal Manager at the NPA, the incidents occurred between January 1 and June 30, 2024. The document, titled “Operational Returns for 2nd Quarterly Meeting of the Nigerian Ports Consultative Council,” provides a breakdown of the incidents by port.
The Lagos Port Complex recorded the highest number of incidents, with 29 cases, including three accidents, three arrests, and one assault. The Tincan Island Port Complex reported 21 incidents, while the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal had only two incidents.
Other ports, such as Lekki Port, Rivers Port, Federal Lighter Terminal, and Federal Ocean Terminal, reported fewer incidents. Delta Ports had seven incidents, while Calabar Port reported five.
The incidents reported include 7 accidents, 4 arrests, 1 assault, 13 cases of damage to NPA property, 7 deaths and 2 cases of arms and ammunition.
Others are 5 fire incidents, 11 protests, 4 attacks on vessels, 3 stowaways, 5 joint raiding operations, 7 thefts, 8 visits and an instance of trespassing to NPA land or illegal entry.
The NPA’s report highlights the need for continued vigilance and improvement in security measures at the country’s seaports.
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