David Oladimeji
As the Yuletide season draws near, the Ports Authority Police (Western) Command has rolled out enhanced security measures to safeguard lives, cargo, and critical maritime infrastructure across major ports in the western axis of the country.
The Command assured port users, maritime operators, and members of the public that robust plans have been activated to maintain safety, security, and order throughout the festive period, traditionally marked by increased commercial and human traffic.
According to the Command, the new security architecture is in line with the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Ports Authority Police (Western) Command, CP Oluwatoyin Iyabode Agbaminoja, psc, mnips.
The measures are aimed at ensuring seamless port operations at Apapa Port, Tincan Island Port, Lekki Deep-Sea Port, Kirikiri Lighter Terminal, Ikorodu Lighter Terminal, as well as along the marine patrol corridor extending up to 12 nautical miles.
A key aspect of the strategy is the intensification of round-the-clock patrols on land and water to deter criminal activities and provide a visible security presence across all port facilities.
The patrols are designed to protect vessels, cargo, port infrastructure, and other critical national economic assets during the heightened activities of the festive season.
In addition, the Command has strengthened collaboration with sister security agencies to ensure swift intelligence sharing and coordinated responses to emerging security threats.
Terminal operators, shipping companies, and Port Facility Security Officers (PFSOs) are also working closely with the Police to guarantee real-time reporting and rapid intervention when security concerns arise.
To manage the expected surge in traffic, additional personnel have been deployed to strategic locations prone to heavy human and vehicular movement within and around the ports.
The Command also disclosed that intelligence gathering and surveillance operations have been significantly enhanced to proactively identify and neutralise potential threats before they escalate.
Modern surveillance techniques and improved monitoring of port corridors have been deployed to support officers on ground and at sea throughout the festive period.
The Commissioner of Police urged all port users to remain vigilant, comply strictly with security guidelines, and promptly report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest Port Police Division or Marine Unit.
He noted that collective responsibility and cooperation from stakeholders remain vital to achieving a peaceful and secure port environment during the Yuletide season.
The Ports Authority Police (Western) Command extended warm festive greetings to Nigerians at home and abroad, wishing all stakeholders a peaceful and joyous Yuletide celebration.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that activities within the nation’s maritime domain continue smoothly, securely, and without disruption during the festive season and beyond.
