By Roland Ekama
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr. Pius Akutah, has urged newly elected executives of the Council’s Cooperative Society to build on past achievements by promoting transparency, prudent financial management and inclusive leadership.
Speaking through Mrs. Ify Okolue, Director of the NSC’s Consumer Affairs Department,on Thursday at the 30th Annual General Meeting held in Lagos, Dr. Akutah described leadership transition as “an opportunity for renewal,” noting that while individuals may serve for a season, the Cooperative’s ideals endure.
“Our collective responsibility is to ensure that each administration leaves the Society stronger than it found it,” Mrs. Okolue said.
Mrs. Okolue said the outgoing leadership handed over more than offices — they handed over “a trust that has been built through years of commitment and the confidence of members.”
She called on the incoming executives to nurture that trust through transparency, accountability, prudent financial management and inclusive decision-making, expressing confidence that they will discharge their duties “with diligence and wisdom.”
Addressing the new President directly, Okolue encouraged leadership by example, empathetic listening and collaboration. He urged the President to unite and empower members, promote innovation and improve welfare across the Society during the new tenure.
Members were also reminded that a cooperative’s strength depends on broad participation. Mrs. Okolue appealed to members to attend meetings faithfully, meet financial obligations promptly, support one another and offer constructive suggestions to foster growth.
Looking ahead, the Executive Secretary representative called on members to embrace new opportunities, adapt to changing economic realities and uphold the Cooperative’s founding principles of self-help, mutual assistance, equity, integrity and democratic participation.
She said these commitments would help expand investments, improve members’ welfare and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.
Before closing, Dr. Akutah — through Okolue — led a call to appreciate the outgoing President and executive team for their faithful service and to congratulate the incoming President and committee, wishing them wisdom, courage and good health.
She closed by urging unity of purpose and pledging cooperation to put the Cooperative’s interests above personal ones, and offered prayers for continued growth and success for all members.
