Clearing agents and importers operating within Nigeria’s maritime industry have raised alarm over the deteriorating situation at the Five Star Logistics Terminal located at Tin-Can Port. They cite widespread security concerns and operational delays as significant obstacles to efficient trade operations.
Industry insiders have disclosed alarming incidents of vandalism and theft targeting vehicles upon their arrival at the terminal. These incidents include the random theft of vital vehicle components and accessories, such as keys, side mirrors, batteries, and tires, leaving importers to bear the financial burden of replacing these items at their own expense.
Furthermore, clearing agents have expressed dissatisfaction with the terminal’s service delivery, citing extended waiting periods of up to four weeks before vehicles are released. Mr. Adarabioyo Samuel, a clearing agent, expressed frustration over the lack of adequate security measures at the terminal, contrasting it with the stringent protocols observed at other terminals like PTML.
Importers have shared harrowing experiences of vehicles arriving at the terminal in good condition but leaving with missing keys or essential parts. Peter, an importer, recounted how he was forced to incur an additional cost of N120,000 to replace a missing key for a vehicle cleared at the terminal.
Moreover, clearing agents highlighted a myriad of other issues plaguing the Five Star terminal, including delays in transferring vehicles to off-dock terminals, slow administrative processes, and technical disruptions such as server network failures.
Mr. Festus Ukwu, Secretary-General of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), confirmed the deteriorating conditions at the terminal, emphasizing discrepancies in the handling of vehicle conditions upon arrival. He called for urgent action to address these shortcomings and restore confidence in the terminal’s operations.
However, when contacted for a response regarding the alleged pilfering and security issues at the terminal, Mr. Chucks Okereafor, Head of Planning and Statistics at the terminal, declined to comment, citing a holiday break.
The deteriorating conditions at the Five Star Logistics Terminal have raised concerns among stakeholders and underscore the urgent need for collaborative efforts to enhance security measures and streamline operational processes to ensure the smooth flow of goods through Nigeria’s ports.