FG Commends Nigerian Shippers’ Council For Annual Management Retreat Initiative

 

 

The Federal Government through the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola has commended management of the Nigerian Shippers Council NSC for the annual retreat for senior personnel of the agency., saying that the Ministry will continue to partner the council to promote port efficiency.

The Executive Secretary/CEO of the Council Mr. Pius Ukeyima Akutah, has continued to encourage management to hold the Annual Management Retreat as part of efforts to promote efficiency and productivity in line with its ombudsman role in port operations.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola while commending the Executive Secretary and his team,noted that

“I commend Mr. Pius Ukeyima Akutah and his team for their unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation within Nigeria’s maritime sector. Their dedication in organising this retreat annually showcases a continual drive towards progress and underlines the pivotal role we all hold in propelling our economy towards a prosperous future.

“The relentless efforts in advocating for the interests of shippers and stakeholders in the maritime industry are truly commendable.

“As we are all aware, the maritime sector is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic growth, serving as a critical link to global trade networks and fostering pathways for commerce that drive our nation’s development.

“As we convene here today, let us reaffirm our commitment to harness the vast potential of our marine resources sustainably, aligning with international standards and addressing the unique challenges facing our country.

“Operating as Nigeria’s Port Economic Regulator, the Nigeria Shippers Council has been steadfast in reforming its regulatory frameworks to streamline cargo movement across Africa, facilitating intra-African trade within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). ”

Oyetola was represented by Hajia Kalthum Uwani Ibrahim, Director Planning , Research and Statistics,Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

He stressed that ministry and the council will continue to partner to achieving sustainable goals

“Noteworthy initiatives such as the anti- corruption campaign at Lagos Port, research on transportation and logistics issues in international trade, improved stakeholder relationships and efforts towards implementing the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) at Nigerian ports reflect the Council’s commitment to progress.

“Undoubtedly, challenges confront the NSC, yet through endeavors aimed at port reforms, enhancing infrastructure, optimising operations, improving connectivity among transport modes, adopting the Port Community System (PCS). bolstering maritime security and investing in capacity building, the Council is making strides towards overcoming these obstacles.

According to him, the dedication and diligence exhibited by the NSC are essential in realising its strategic objectives and some others set for the maritime sector, adding that the retreat not only provides an opportunity to celebrate achievements but also calls for a critical examination of the road ahead, paving the way for a transformative impact on the nation’s blue economy boosting GDP contributions, fostering job creation and instilling sustainable environmental practices.

He said amidst a rapidly evolving global landscape, emphasising innovation, collaboration and sustainable growth in the maritime industry becomes paramount for securing Nigeria’s position on the global maritime map.

“Let us use this retreat as a catalyst for productive discussions, aiming to formulate policies that enhance our shipping operations while nurturing an environment of inclusivity and sustainability for all industry stakeholders.

“To the resilient team at the National Shippers’ Council, I extend my sincere appreciation for your unyielding commitment. Your persistent efforts in driving reforms, crafting policies, advocating for seamless trade processes and optimising maritime operations have continuously elevated our industry standards.

“Let us leverage this retreat as a platform for strategic dialogues that yield actionable insights, shaping policies that propel our shipping operations while fostering an inclusive and sustainable ecosystem for all stakeholders. The decisions we make here will have a lasting impact on the development of the marine and blue economy in Nigeria.

Oyetola assured management of the Ministry’s unwavering support in implementing policies that enhance the operational framework within which the council operates, pointing out that “Together, we will collaboratively address bottlenecks, elevate infrastructure as are at the verge of concluding our Marine and Blue Economy Policy that mirror contemporary realities and expectations.

The Minister urged management to engage in constructive dialogue, exchange ideas and work towards common goals that benefit the nation and its citizens saying that “Collectively, we can drive positive change, enhance efficiency and build a vibrant and resilient maritime sector for future generations.