The Ports Authority Police, Western Command has called on members of the public to play a more active role in ensuring safety and security at Nigeria’s bustling seaport terminals.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, ASP Isaac Hundeyin who stated this in Lagos recently emphasized that safe terminal operations are not just a technical necessity but a matter of national interest.
He argued that Nigeria’s seaports, described as dynamic hubs of global trade and local logistics, rely heavily on the smooth functioning of terminals—designated areas where cargo is loaded, unloaded, and processed.
The Police Chief explained that these terminals handle a wide range of goods, from containers and bulk cargo to hazardous materials and vehicles, making safety protocols essential to prevent accidents, theft and disruptions.
According to him, safe terminal operations are the backbone of a secure maritime trade ecosystem. They protect lives, cargo, and investments, and help maintain Nigeria’s reputation in global commerce. The Ports Authority Police outlined several key areas of terminal safety including access control, traffic regulation, cargo handling, fire safety, surveillance, and environmental compliance. Officers conduct physical patrols, investigate cargo-related crimes, and manage crowd control in collaboration with agencies such as the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).
Hundeyin also stressed the importance of public awareness and co-operation even as he enjoined frequent port users including truck drivers, clearing agents, labourers, and seafarers to follow safety guidelines such as carrying valid identification, avoiding restricted zones, reporting suspicious activity, and wearing protective gears.
“Safety is a shared responsibility. When everyone plays their part, terminals can become not only centers of trade and economic growth but also models of discipline and security”, he added.
As Nigeria’s ports continue to modernize, he averred that the Ports Authority Police has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding maritime infrastructure and supporting the nation’s economic progress.
