Transport Minister Commends NPA on E-Payment system

    Senator Idris Umar, Minister of Transport has commended the management of Nigeria Ports Authority for introducing electronic payment solutions for all business transactions in the nation’s seaports. He gave this commendation in Lagos and affirmed his support and encourages NPA to continue to develop and synchronize the system so that all the other ports, the agencies and the various management and staff will have access to information easily. NPA Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Mr. Olumide Odutan, explains that the Nigerian Ports Authority decided to introduce this system because they believe in using technology to enhance and improve their operations and efficiency. With this system in place, he said that payment confirmation will be received as soon as payment is made. Customers are equally happy because of the introduction of this system as 90 percent of them have keyed into the system making over 400 transactions since the commencement of the system in March. Concerning the Federal government’s plans to improve maritime operations in Nigeria, Senator Idris Umar said that the Lekki seaport operations will start in 2015, adding that other projects such as Ibaka and Badagry deep seaports are equally well underway. He said these projects will bring massive developments to the maritime industry in Nigeria.