Licensed customs agents and members of the National Shippers Association of Nigeria (NSAN) have urged the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) to implement urgent reforms to the E-call up system, known locally as the Eto ticket, before expanding it to additional ports across the country.
Speaking at a press briefing in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, stakeholders from the shipping and logistics sector highlighted deep-rooted concerns about corruption, inefficiencies, and infrastructure gaps within the current system, which is in use at Apapa and Tin Can ports in Lagos.
The statement, reported by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), was signed by:
Innocent Akuvue, President of the NSAN
Joshua Ahuama, Zonal Coordinator of the Eastern Association of Nigeria Customs Agents
Emeka Nwosu, National Vice Chairman of the Council of Managing Directors of Customs Licensed Agents
Initially introduced to manage truck traffic and reduce congestion in Lagos ports, the Eto ticketing system has, according to the group, failed to deliver its intended benefits. Instead, they described it as being “marred by disorder and racketeering.”
While the official ticket price is ₦20,750, stakeholders claim that truck operators are often forced to purchase it on the black market for as much as ₦400,000. The result has been prolonged delays, increased costs for shippers, and widespread frustration within the industry.
With the NPA now considering rolling out the system to Eastern Ports—namely Onne, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and Warri—the group has urged a pause until major issues are resolved.
“The system cannot simply be transplanted from Lagos to the East without addressing the root causes of its failures,” said the stakeholders, adding that “the lack of appropriate infrastructure at the Eastern Ports could replicate Lagos’ chaos.”
They further stressed the importance of completing the East–West Road, a key transport artery, to improve port connectivity and regional logistics.
In contrast to the problems at Lagos ports, the group praised the current operations at the Eastern Ports, noting that these locations have demonstrated higher efficiency, faster cargo handling, and a more business-friendly environment.
They argued that maintaining this standard requires measured automation, transparent systems, and significant infrastructure investment, rather than a rushed rollout of flawed technology.
Additionally, the group called for policy reforms to strengthen the Onne Oil and Gas Free Zone, given its potential to bolster national economic growth.
The message to the Federal Government and the NPA was clear: reform before expansion. Stakeholders are demanding a transparent, efficient, and well-supported automation system that complements existing port operations, rather than undermines them.