Operational Compliance: NARTO chair advocates

Dear Esteemed NARTO Members,

I trust this message finds you well. As critical stakeholders in Nigeria’s road transport and maritime(sub-transport) sector, we must continually reaffirm our commitment to excellence, discipline, and due process.

The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) Lagos State, wishes to strongly remind all members to strictly adhere to the following operational protocols at all times:

1. DUE PROCESS & PORT ACCESS COMPLIANCE (For All Cargo Haulers)

• Obtain a Valid E-Call Up: Ensure you secure a legitimate and active E-Call Up ticket before approaching any port access point. No movement without a valid ticket and jealousy protect your ticket(ETO has a way of locking it)
• Strictly Follow Pregate Time Belt: Adhere religiously to your assigned Pregate time window. Early or late arrivals disrupt the system.
• Exit the EPT(Export Processing Terminal) at Due Time: Do not overstay within the EPT facility. Exit promptly when your slot is called to avoid congestion.
• Regularly Check the Empty Containers Manifest: Consistently verify the Empty Manifest to confirm which shipping lines and containers are admissible into the ports on any given day. This prevents wasted trips and unnecessary delays(We update our members on this every morning on our platform)
• Take Note of Gate Closure Timings: Be fully aware of when the port gates close. Plan your movements to arrive well within operational hours to avoid being locked out.

1. ORDERLINESS & TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT (All Members)

We appeal to every member to uphold maximum orderliness while on the queue. Avoid indiscriminate parking, lane cutting, or obstructing public roads. Remember that your conduct reflects on the entire association. Do not block intersections, junctions, or access roads leading to the ports. A disciplined queue is a faster-moving queue.
Reach out to us for timely evacuation if your truck developed fault that can’t be fixed immediately)

3. SAFETY – EVERYONE’S BUSINESS (General)

Safety is not optional- it is a non-negotiable priority and the collective responsibility of every driver, owner, and operator. We must uphold it at all times, without compromise.

We advise all members to carry out pre-trip and post-trip safety checks on every vehicle. Pay special attention to:

• Headlights – Bright and functional for night and poor-visibility driving.
• Brake Lights – Fully operational to alert following vehicles.
• Parking Lights – Functional for visibility when stationary.
• Functional Brake System – Test brake efficiency regularly; worn pads or low fluid are fatal risks.
• Tire Condition & Pressure – Check tread wear and correct inflation to prevent blowouts.
• Steering & Suspension – Responsive handling to avoid loss of control.
• Fire Extinguisher & First-Aid Kit – Must be present, accessible, and serviced.
• Mirrors & Windshield Wipers – For clear visibility in all weather.
• Horn & Warning Signals – To communicate effectively on busy roads.
• Twist locks(Also known as Hooks)for container laden trucks- Always ensure that the containers are locked properly
• Avoid late night trip if you are unsure of the situation of your destination.
• Stop and park at a busy area when you noticed an usual movement behind you.

1. SPECIAL SAFETY DIRECTIVES FOR WET CARGO MEMBERS

(Carrying Petroleum Products, Gas, and Oil)

To our members in the tanker and hazardous cargo segment, your operations carry elevated risks. Beyond the general checks above, you must strictly observe the following:

• Certified Safety Valves & Pressure Relief Systems – Ensure all tank valves and pressure release mechanisms are factory-tested and fully functional.
• Anti-Static Grounding Cables – Always attach grounding wires during loading and offloading to prevent static ignition.
• Spill Containment Kits – Carry adequate absorbent materials, booms, and drip trays to contain any accidental leakage.
• Fully Functional Emergency Shut-Off Systems – Test emergency cut-off switches before every journey.
• Flameproof Exhaust Systems & Spark Arresters – Ensure exhaust pipes are fitted with spark arresters to prevent fire outbreaks.
• Proper Placarding & Hazard Markings – Display correct hazardous material (HAZMAT) labels and emergency response placards on all sides of the vehicle.
• No Smoking or Naked Flames – Enforce a zero-tolerance policy for smoking, matches, or lighters within 50 meters of your vehicle during loading, transit, and offloading.
• Driver Training on Emergency Response – Ensure your drivers are trained on how to handle product leaks, fire incidents, and first-response evacuation procedures.
• Regular Tank Integrity Testing – Conduct periodic non-destructive testing (NDT) of tank shells to detect corrosion or weak points.

Remember: A single lapse in wet cargo operations can lead to catastrophic loss of lives, property, and the environment. Take no shortcuts.

5. SPECIAL SAFETY & SERVICE DIRECTIVES FOR COMMUTER SERVICES MEMBERS

(Passenger Buses, Coaches, and Mass Transit)

To our members in the passenger transportation subsector, you carry the most precious cargo-human lives. Your responsibilities go beyond driving:

• Fastening of Seat Belts for All Drivers– Ensure every driver’s seat is fitted with a functional seat belt and that passengers are properly restrained before moving off.
• Functional Door Locks & Emergency Exits – Test all passenger doors and emergency escape hatches for easy operation in case of an accident.
• Speed Limiting Devices – Ensure your speed limiters are calibrated and active. Excessive speed is the leading cause of fatal passenger accidents.
• Driver Fatigue Management – No driver should operate for more than 4 consecutive hours without a 30-minute rest break. Enforce strict rest schedules.
• Passenger Manifest & Load Limits – Do not exceed the registered passenger capacity. Overloading compromises braking and steering.
• Adequate Cabin Ventilation & Air Conditioning – Prevent heat exhaustion or carbon monoxide buildup inside the passenger cabin.
• Regular Chassis & Suspension Inspections – Pay extra attention to leaf springs, shock absorbers, and axle mounts, as they bear heavy passenger loads daily.
• Professional Conduct of Drivers & Conductors – Your drivers must treat passengers with courtesy, avoid reckless driving, and never use phones while behind the wheel.

Remember: Every passenger trusts you with their life and that of their family. Honour that trust with the highest standard of care.

CLOSING REMARKS

Let us all work together to maintain a seamless, safe, and efficient transport ecosystem- whether hauling cargo, petroleum, or people. Your discipline today guarantees our collective success tomorrow.

We thank you for your continued commitment and urge you to share this advisory with all your drivers and fleet managers.

Safe journeys and God bless all your efforts.

Yours in service,

Alhaji Kayode Odunowo(Chief Reformer)
NARTO Lagos State Chairman

UP NARTO
SERVICE TO THE NATION

NO NARTO NO NIGERIA

WE ARE NARTO WE ARE GREAT