KLT operating below 10% of it's capacity - Bomodi
Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) is capable of handling 4000 TEUs but functions lower than ten percent of its full capacity as a result of underutilisation of its potentials.
The Customs Area Controller, KLT Command, Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Timi Bomodi disclosed this on Wednesday while playing host to the newly elected executives of Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, MARAN, who visited him at Apapa, Lagos.
Comptroller Bomodi noted that the KLT offers more opportunities in terms of space, proximity and access to the port for the facilitation of export and import in and out of the seaports in Lagos.
He added that the KLT is the most strategic port in Lagos taking into account the crucial role of helping to decongest the ports by providing space in the heyday of cargo congestion.
The Controller said they had made contact with the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), terminal operators, shipping companies and other stakeholders on the need to move cargo into the terminal.
"KLT is the most strategic port in congestion, KLT functioned as a buoy for the trapped cargo. KLT has a lot of underutilized space and offers more access for cargo to come in and go out of the ports.
"KLT is functioning less than 10 percent of its capacity of 4000 TEUs. It is not good the underutilisation of such a vital national asset which could play a crucial role in promotion of export in the country.
"We have been telling NPA and terminal operators that we need to move cargo to the port. Shipping companies will see wisdom bringing their cargo here. It makes a lot of economic sense. KLT offers capacity for the Nigeria Customs to generate more revenue at a time the nation needs for revenue," said Bomodi.
Bomodi also said that information is key to export thriving in Nigeria and that export potential in Nigeria are huge, but the country lacks information, data, internal logistics system, payment platforms and other infrastructure that can help her achieve this.
"For export to thrive, Nigerians need information on goods to export. But, there is lack of information; internal logistics system is not efficient. Payment platforms are not in existence.
“Export potential are huge in Nigeria but where are the infrastructure to support it?” he asked.
Speaking further, Bomodi maintained that the port has the capacity and facilities to handle barges that bring containers from Tincan and is profitable for terminal operators.
Congratulating the MARAN executives on their election, Comptroller Bomodi said that there are a lot of challenges importers and exporters face because of infrastructure delay in and around the ports.
The customs controller appreciated MARAN members for displaying high level of integrity in their reports.
Earlier in his remarks, Mr. Godfrey Bivbere, President of MARAN, said the purpose of the visit was to intimate the Controller on the activities of the association and synergy with the command to boost its operations.
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