Tin Can Port: Export Truckers Raise Alarm Over Alleged N50,000 Charges Per Container

Export truck operators around the Tin Can Island Port corridor in Lagos have accused port authorities and terminal operators of imposing multiple charges that allegedly cost them up to N50,000 per container, warning that the development could weaken Nigeria’s non-oil export drive.

The Chairman of the Association of Container Truck Owners of Nigeria (ACTOAN), Ridwan Bello, said the alleged charges were adding to the financial difficulties of haulage operators despite the introduction of the electronic call-up system.

Bello accused the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and other agencies operating around the port corridor of creating additional barriers for truckers.

In an interview with Vanguard, he questioned the continued emphasis on the manifest requirement, arguing that it had become another burden for operators instead of allowing the electronic call-up system to perform its intended role of managing traffic and preventing human interference in port access.

He said the situation had made the movement of export containers into the port more expensive and challenging.

According to the ACTOAN chairman, truckers allegedly pay N15,000 to facilitate the dropping of each export container, in addition to other charges imposed at terminal facilities.

He also claimed that terminal operators sometimes demand up to N10,000 for offloading export containers.

Bello said the combined payments could reach N50,000 per container, leaving operators with reduced earnings and raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of their businesses.

He questioned the profitability of haulage operations under the circumstances, particularly when the Federal Government is promoting non-oil exports as part of efforts to diversify the economy.

Nigeria’s non-oil export earnings reportedly increased from $5.46bn in 2024 to $6.1bn in 2025, highlighting the growing significance of efficient port infrastructure and operations.

Bello urged the NPA to explain why the manifest requirement remained necessary and provide clarity on the effectiveness of the electronic call-up system.

He also expressed dissatisfaction with trucking associations, accusing them of failing to adequately address the alleged charges and operational difficulties facing their members.

The ACTOAN chairman called for an urgent review of the charges and port procedures, warning that the alleged practices could discourage investment in the haulage sector and frustrate Nigeria’s export growth objectives.

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