Barge operation is one of the multimodal approaches neglected for years in Nigeria, as a
means of cargo evacuation using the inland waterways in order to ease cargo evacuation and
help decongest both the ports and roads leading to the ports. This study therefore aims to
ascertain the effect of barging logistics services on Apapa and Tin Can Island ports and to
identify the challenges facing the operation of barging logistics services in Nigerian ports. This
study also examines the background of the Apapa traffic gridlock, making a case for barge
operation services. Data were collected through questionnaires and interviews administered
using purposive sampling method. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive
statistics. The result shows that the barging logistics services have improved the terminal
operator services and reduced the vessel turnaround time. The challenges facing barge
operations include delay at the terminal, lack of a container bay, multiple regulations and
taxes, lack of access to loans, foreign dominance, and unfriendly government policy. The barge
service needs to be safeguarded as a means of conveying both export in and import out of the
ports in order to reduce operation cost and attract viable business environment at Lagos ports