The acting Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Mr Mohammed Bello-Koko, has solicited the support of the Police and Navy to tackle the recurrent attacks on vessels, barges, operators and port facilities.
Bello-Koko called for support on Thursday, during a meeting with the security personnel in Lagos.
He said there was an urgent need for the security agencies to assist the authority in addressing the rising cases of attacks on vessels, barge operators and other port facilities especially around the waterfronts and the channel areas.
“The authority would like the AIG to use his good office to assist in the following areas of interest or concern; strengthening the existing collaboration between the Lagos State Police Command and the PAPC, assist in the challenge of persistent complaints by stakeholders of extortion and erecting illegal roadblocks by uniformed security operatives from government security agencies, unions and associations on Port corridors.
“Other issues requiring the AIG’s urgent attention include assist in follow-ups with the Force Headquarters Abuja for additional maritime Police personnel/gunnery to enable the authority commission its newly acquired patrol boats.
“To assist in the follow-up for the establishment of Marine Police units in Calabar and Delta Ports respectively,” he said.
The NPA chief congratulated the new AIG on his recent elevation and assured him of their support to work together and to improve the existing relationship between the authority and the Police high command.
