Navy’s Piracy Crackdown Powers Port Trade Surge in Nigeria – Shippers’ Council Boss

The Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr. Akutah Pius, MON, has praised the Nigerian Navy’s aggressive anti-piracy efforts as a game-changer for port operations, cargo safety, and Nigeria’s blue economy .

Speaking during a courtesy visit by Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command.Dr. Akutah emphasized that with over 90% of global trade moving by sea, the Navy’s role in slashing piracy incidents has restored shipping confidence, cut freight costs by aiding Nigeria’s exit from war risk lists, and boosted port efficiency as the Council’s key economic regulator.

He spotlighted NSC reforms like reducing cargo dwell times, advancing port automation, and rolling out the National Single Window for seamless trade documentation—initiatives. that depend on naval security to thrive.

“The Navy ensures cargo safety and operational stability in our ports,” Dr. Akutah said, committing to deeper collaboration for maritime domain awareness and stakeholder engagement”, Executive Secretary noted.

Rear Admiral Mustapha reinforced the security-regulation link: “Without security, ships won’t come—and without ships, there’s nothing to regulate.”

He detailed operations like Exercise Omi Ailewu, ember-month patrols, and the Chief of Naval Staff Annual Sea Inspection (CASI) with over 16 vessels, plus ongoing fleet growth making Nigeria’s Navy a regional powerhouse.

Both leaders agreed enhanced tech-driven awareness and joint efforts will stabilize ports, curb crime in the western maritime corridor, and fuel economic growth.

They also previewed the Navy’s 70th anniversary (May 29–June 4), with NSC pledging support for the Presidential Fleet Review involving 40+ nations.