– Demands verification of Truck Parks, Garages
Vincent Toritseju
Lagos — The Council for Maritime Transport Unions and Association, COMTUA, has requested the leadership of the Nigerian Ports Authority, to carry a verification exercise on Truck Parks and Garages with a view to testing the integrity of the electronic Call Up system.
In a letter to the Managing Director of the NPA, President of COMTUA, Comrade Yinka Aroyewun said that the group was ready to collaboration with the NPA to carry the exercise adding that, the effective functioning of the call-up regime is crucial to ensure efficient port operations, minimize congestion, and maintain orderliness within the port areas.
According to Aroyewun, an objectively assess the compliance status of the approved garages and parks, identify areas of improvement, and develop a collaborative plan of action to rectify any non-compliance issues.
He said: “We are writing on behalf of our members to request a joint inspection of the approved parks and garages currently in use for the call-up regime. The purpose of this inspection is to verify our claim of non-compliance by the garages and parks in adhering to the agreed-upon regulations.
“As you may be aware our union has been closely monitoring the activities of the garages and parks that have been approved by the Nigerian Port Authority for the call-up regime. However, we have observed several instances of non-compliance with the prescribed guidelines and regulations.
“To address this issue effectively and restore the integrity of the call-up regime, we believe that a joint inspection involving representatives from our union and the Nigerian Port Authority would be beneficial. By conducting this inspection together.
“We kindly request the Nigerian Port Authority’s cooperation in arranging this joint inspection at the earliest convenience. We propose that the inspection be conducted within the next one week, allowing ample time for coordinating schedules and ensuring the presence of relevant stakeholders.
“Moreover, we would appreciate it if the Nigerian Port Authority could provide us with the following information prior to the inspection:
“The specific guidelines and regulations that these garages and parks are required to adhere to. Reports of any findings regarding non-compliance issues or concerns related to the approved garages and parks.
“We assure you that our intentions are solely focused on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the call-up regime. The joint inspection will provide an opportunity for open dialogue, collaboration, and the identification of practical solutions to address the non-compliance issues faced by the garages and parks.
“We remain committed to working together to enhance the operations of the call-up regime and contribute to the overall success of port activities in Nigeria.”
