The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), over the weekend, said the nation’s maritime sector is crucial to job creation, regional integration, industrial growth, and strengthening Nigeria’s global economic position.
The Council’s executive secretary, Dr Pius Akutah, while speaking on the theme “Shipping and Maritime: The Backbone of International Trade,” at the 26th Annual General Meeting of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) held in Lagos, reiterated the sector’s significance in driving national development.
Akutah, who was represented by the Deputy Director, Trade Services Division, Adaora Nwonu, reiterated the need to modernise seaports through automation, connectivity, and promotion of Ease of Doing Business, which is essential for the industry’s growth.
He noted that NSC effectively regulates tariffs and charges at ports, preventing arbitrary introductions and ensuring a smooth trade process.
Akutah also outlined the Council’s key interventions, including the development of infrastructure such as Inland Dry Ports and Vehicle Transit Areas.
He further mentioned the NSC’s leadership in implementing the National Single Window (NSW), monitoring port performance, and promoting process harmonisation through the Nigerian Port Process Manual (NPPM) in collaboration with other MDAs.
The NSC Boss concluded by calling for a strategic synergy with the International Chamber of Commerce to establish Nigeria as a regional trade hub.
