The Manager, Tin can Port Island Port (TCIP), Mr. Babatunde Longe has said that the management of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) would not allow any government agency that is not provided with office accommodation to operate in the port.
He said this while receiving the delegation of the Women in Logistics and Transport (WILAT) led by the global convener and president of WILAT, Hajia Aisha Ali-Ibrahim during a visit to his office in Lagos, last week.
Mr. Longe said that the NPA management was doing everything possible within its capacity to facilitate cargo clearance in the port.
Speaking, he said, “We have not provided space for anyone that is not supposed to be at the port. Those who are not supposed to be at the port find themselves there and some of them even use their vehicles as their office.”
He however stressed that what the agencies supposed to do was for them to come to the port anytime there was examination so that they could take part in it.
Meanwhile, the WILAT president said the group was at the office of the port manager to appreciate and acquaint themselves with the port environment.
“We are here to appreciate you and acquaint other members with the port environment,” she said.
WILAT is the women’s wing of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT).
Aisha said, “The Port Manager has always been there for us. In fact, our Treasurer is a Head of Department here and the Port Manager has always attended to us anytime she comes. His support has been so overwhelming to us.
“That is why this place is the first of our visit. Here in our group, we have women in all the areas of transport and logistics. The uniqueness is that we are an umbrella for everyone in logistics and transport,” she remarked.
Longe on his part commended WILAT for championing the cause of women in the logistics and transport industry.
“WISTA is for the empowerment of women and we are proud of you and for your contribution of building a vibrant and committed woman that will improve the industry.”
The group comprises students from higher institutions of learning who are referred to as the mentees as well as other women who are into trade and logistics in their various organisations.
