Chief Sylvester Othuke Egede, former Port Manager at Tin Can Island Port, has launched his memoir titled “Lion of the Port Corridor: Strategy Is Everything” , where he highlighted the strategic thinking that led to the successful clearance of the long-standing Mile Two–Tin Can port corridor gridlock.
Speaking at the event, Egede said the book was inspired largely by his experience during his first four years in office as former Port Manager of Tin Can Island Port, when traffic congestion caused by indiscriminate parking of trucks along the corridor was resolved without the use of force. He noted that the achievement stood out in a country where several committees had previously failed to find a lasting solution.
According to him, the breakthrough was achieved through engagement and strategy rather than coercion, stressing that truckers vacated the corridor voluntarily after constructive dialogue. He explained that the approach was anchored on a SWOT analysis assessing strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats to properly understand the problem and design an effective response.
Egede disclosed that the truckers complied with an agreed deadline after being assured that an alternative truck park would be provided. He added that a suitable location capable of accommodating about 4,000 trucks has since been identified in collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
Reflecting on leadership and governance, Egede urged decision-makers to look beyond surface issues when addressing complex challenges, noting that solutions are often closer than imagined. He said the memoir documents key lessons from his career at the Nigerian Ports Authority, emphasizing that strategy, insight and deep thinking remain critical to solving persistent national problems.
The Former President, Ship Owners Association of Nigeria(SOAN) Dr. MkGeorge Oyung in his address emphasized the critical role of port corridors in international trade. He described the port corridor as the integrated network of transportation infrastructure and services that ensures goods move efficiently from ports to shops and homes, coining the memorable slogan: “No shipping, no shopping.” Oyung stressed that without shipping and seafarers, global trade and by extension, everyday life would grind to a halt.
Highlighting the significance of seafarers, Oyung noted that approximately 90% of global goods are transported by sea, with 1.9 million seafarers navigating the world’s oceans. He applauded their contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic and drew attention to the challenges faced by sailors, especially those from conflict zones such as Ukraine. He also recognized the small but courageous number of women in the industry, calling for applause in their honor.
Oyung further emphasized the strategic and economic importance of ports, noting that a single large vessel can carry cargo equivalent to thousands of trucks or hundreds of rail cars, making maritime transport cost effective, environmentally friendly, and safe. He highlighted Nigeria’s advantage in the post-Panama shipping era and the need for smooth port corridors to maintain efficiency in the global ocean economy, which he described as the seventh largest in the world.
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