POF Collection: PTML Terminal is the Most Automated Port Terminal in Nigeria

By DAPO OLAWUNI

Roll-on Roll-off vehicle terminal; Ports and Terminal Multipurpose Limited (PTML) has been adjudged the most automated and seamless port terminal in Nigeria.

This verdict was pronounced by frontline application service provider; SW Global, the technical partner to the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) on collection of the Practitioners Operations Fee (POF)

Speaking at a townhall meeting between CRFFN and Terminal Operators at Rockview Hotel in Apapa Lagos on Monday, Project Manager of SW Global, Mr Olaolu Farinto lamented that CRFFN POF revenue is dwindling because most of the terminal operators system are not yet upgraded.

The meeting has the theme: “POF Enforcement, Strategies for Enhancing Revenue Generation-Benefits, Challenges and Way Forward”

Recall that the CRFFN and Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the CRFFN in 2021 to help confirm payment of the POF fee by freight forwarders before cargoes are released.

Speaking, Mr Olaolu said “At PTML Terminal, there is no human contact in the port process, and this is the best for the system. PTML has an API that calls the Bill of Laden number once it is entered, either from their own system, or from the NPA data base. Once it calls it, it automatically gives you the bill you are paying for.

“If we can adopt this kind of system at all terminals, it would improve our revenue to a large extent”

Meanwhile, the CRFFN has said that the Council is ready to prosecute anyone sabotaging the collection of it’s POF fees.

The Acting Registrar/CEO of CRFFN, Mrs. Chinyere Uromta lamented the various challenges facing the council, adding that necessary measures are currently in place to address them.

She said “in accordance with CRFFN Act, FG has put in place Disciplinary Tribunal and investigative panel that would address infringement of POF” she said

While appealing to freight forwarders who have not been benefiting from incentives packages from the POF collection meant for the cargo declarant to be patient with the Council, even as she promised that it would be fully resolved within the next few months.

She urged forwarders to pay the POF themselves for easy identification.