Oyetola Declares End to 20-Year Apapa Gridlock, Says Trucks No Longer Stuck at Port

For the first time in over two decades, trucks are no longer stuck in long, chaotic queues at the Apapa Port, Lagos — a development described as “historic” by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.

Speaking during an official inspection of the port facilities on Wednesday, Oyetola revealed that the era of chronic traffic congestion at Nigeria’s busiest port is over.

He credited the breakthrough to a combination of infrastructure upgrades, policy reforms, and enhanced traffic enforcement.

“For over 20 years, truck congestion has crippled economic activity around Apapa. Today, I can confidently say the nightmare is over,” the Minister stated.

The Apapa Port has for years been synonymous with traffic gridlock, where trucks could be seen idling for days—sometimes weeks—waiting for access. This situation not only disrupted business operations but also caused significant financial losses due to delays and demurrage.

Oyetola noted that the new traffic-free status was achieved through coordinated efforts by the Ministry, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Lagos State Government, and private sector stakeholders.

Among the key solutions implemented were digital scheduling systems, improved road networks, and stricter enforcement of truck movement regulations.

Local businesses and residents have started to feel the impact of the changes. Logistics operators have praised the reduced turnaround time, while commuters around the Apapa axis have reported improved traffic flow and easier access.

The Minister also hinted at plans to replicate the success at other key ports across the country, particularly the Tin Can Island Port, which faces similar congestion issues.

“This is just the beginning,” Oyetola said. “Our vision is to transform Nigeria’s port infrastructure into a model of efficiency and global competitiveness.”
The development is seen as a major win for the administration’s broader efforts to boost trade, streamline port operations, and improve the ease of doing business in Nigeria.