The Publisher of JournalNG Magazine and Convener of the JournalNG Port Industry Town Hall Meeting, Ismail Aniemu, has called for a bold transition to a smart port regime in Nigeria, stressing that the adoption of digital and automated systems is critical to improving efficiency, eliminating operational bottlenecks, and creating sustainable employment within the maritime sector.
Aniemu made this call during the 6th edition of the JournalNG Port Industry Town Hall Meeting held in Apapa, Lagos, where key stakeholders converged to deliberate on the theme: “Towards a Regime of Smart Ports in Nigeria.”
In his address, Aniemu underscored that the global maritime industry is rapidly evolving towards technology-driven operations, noting that countries that fail to embrace smart port systems risk being left behind in international trade competitiveness.
According to him, smart ports leverage advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, big data analytics, and automation to streamline port processes, reduce human interference, and enhance real-time decision-making.
“A smart port is fundamentally tech-driven. It deploys intelligent systems that minimise manual processes, improve turnaround time, and ensure seamless operations across the maritime value chain,” he said.
He noted that Nigeria’s current port system, which still relies heavily on manual procedures, contributes significantly to delays in cargo clearance, increased costs of doing business, and inefficiencies that discourage investment.
Aniemu explained that transitioning to a smart port ecosystem would not only improve operational speed and transparency but also reduce corruption risks associated with excessive human interface.
Jobs, Not Job Losses
Addressing widespread concerns among labour unions about the potential displacement of workers, Aniemu maintained that technological advancement would instead create new categories of employment requiring higher technical skills.
“There is a misconception that automation leads to job losses. On the contrary, it leads to job transformation. A smart port will create opportunities for IT specialists, data analysts, automation engineers, and other skilled professionals,” he stated.
He urged maritime workers to embrace capacity building and upskilling initiatives to remain relevant in an increasingly digitalised industry.
Aniemu further expressed confidence in the ability of Nigerian professionals to compete globally, citing the track record of Nigerians excelling in various technical and professional fields abroad.
24-Hour Port Operations Feasible
Drawing a link to previous discussions on 24-hour port operations, Aniemu noted that Nigeria already possesses critical components needed to sustain round-the-clock port activities—particularly in the financial services sector.
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“The banking system has demonstrated that 24/7 operations are possible. Payments can be processed at any time. This same model can be replicated in port operations, including cargo clearance and inspections,” he said.
He called on key government agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service, NDLEA, and NAFDAC to adopt shift-based operations to ensure continuous service delivery.
According to him, achieving a smart port system requires not just infrastructure upgrades but also institutional alignment, inter-agency collaboration, and a shift in operational mindset.
Stakeholders Back Reform Agenda
The town hall meeting attracted a wide range of maritime stakeholders, including port operators, freight forwarders, regulators, and industry experts, who collectively emphasised the need for Nigeria to align its port operations with global best practices.
Participants highlighted the role of policy consistency, investment in digital infrastructure, and public-private partnerships as key drivers of successful smart port implementation.
Industry observers note that countries with fully integrated smart ports have recorded significant improvements in cargo throughput, reduced vessel turnaround time, and enhanced trade facilitation.
For Nigeria, experts say the adoption of smart port systems could significantly boost its ranking in global ease of doing business indices, attract foreign investment, and strengthen its position as a leading maritime hub in West Africa.
As the push for port modernisation gains traction, stakeholders agree that the time has come for Nigeria to move from dialogue to implementation, leveraging technology as a catalyst for growth and competitiveness in the maritime sector.
Ismail Aniemu calls for the adoption of smart port systems in Nigeria, highlighting the role of technology, automation, and 24-hour operations in boosting efficiency, creating jobs, and enhancing maritime competitiveness.
The JournalNG publisher advocates smart port reforms in Nigeria, saying digital transformation will improve efficiency, reduce bottlenecks, and create new jobs in the maritime sector.
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