Barge Operators Handle Four Million Containers Since 2019 – BOAN President
has announced that the association has facilitated the movement of over four million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) of containers across Nigeria’s waterways since 2019. This achievement has also contributed significantly to job creation, employing at least 26,000 individuals within the sector.
Critical Role in Maritime Logistics
Speaking in Lagos, Olumekun highlighted the importance of barge operations in Nigeria’s maritime logistics system, stating that the sector supports the movement of imports, exports, and other cargoes. BOAN’s operations, involving 82 member companies and over 2,000 barges and tugboats, have underscored the economic potential of waterways for transportation and logistics.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
Olumekun explained that each barge employs a minimum of 13 crew members, translating to at least 26,000 jobs created over the past five years. This achievement demonstrates the potential of the barge industry to support national economic growth and alleviate unemployment.
Challenges Facing the Industry
Despite its successes, the barge sector faces several challenges, with restrictive government policies being a significant hurdle. Olumekun criticized the Nigerian Ports Authority’s (NPA) requirement for a ₦50 million annual cash bond for barge operators’ licensing. He argued that adopting globally accepted insurance bonds would reduce costs and attract more participants to the sector.
Additionally, high charges from terminal operators and government agencies make barge transportation more expensive than road transport. Olumekun emphasized that with proper reforms, barge transport costs could be reduced by 50%, making it a more cost-effective alternative.
Advocacy for Policy Reforms
Olumekun called on the government to prioritize waterway transportation policies to unlock the sector’s full potential. He advocated for regulatory frameworks to curb the activities of unregulated operators, which often result in accidents. BOAN has implemented a unique identity system for barges to ensure accountability and improve safety standards.
Benefits of Barge Transportation
Olumekun highlighted the reliability of barge operations, particularly for transporting large volumes of cargo. He noted that even in the event of a tugboat fault, operations can continue without disruption, a reliability not achievable with trucks.
“Barge transportation offers a dependable and efficient way to move cargo, ensuring all containers arrive simultaneously. With the right reforms, it could become a far more attractive option compared to road transport,” Olumekun said.
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As a critical component of Nigeria’s logistics infrastructure, barge operations hold the potential to enhance economic growth and reduce pressure on the nation’s roads, provided the government implements favorable policies to support the industry.
