NPERA DG seeks stronger Nigeria-Denmark cooperation on port regulation

The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA), Dr. Akutah Pius has called for stronger strategic cooperation between Nigeria and Denmark in port economic regulation, trade facilitation, institutional development and capacity building.

Dr. Akutah made the call in Copenhagen, Denmark, during a meeting with the Danish Maritime Industry Association, also known as Danske Maritime, as part of the Nigerian delegation’s engagements in the country.

The NPERA boss said stronger collaboration between both countries would support Nigeria’s efforts to develop a more efficient, competitive and globally connected maritime sector.

Speaking on Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms, Akutah noted that the Federal Government has continued to place increased emphasis on trade and the marine and blue economy as important drivers of economic diversification.

He said the renewed focus had become particularly important as the country works towards reducing its dependence on oil and gas and expanding other sectors capable of supporting sustainable economic growth.

According to him, Nigeria’s maritime industry has significant potential to contribute more to national development if the right regulatory frameworks, infrastructure and institutional capacity are strengthened.

Akutah said cooperation with Denmark, which has a strong maritime tradition and advanced shipping industry, could provide valuable opportunities for knowledge exchange and capacity development.

He stressed the importance of learning from international best practices in economic regulation and port operations, adding that such partnerships could help improve efficiency and transparency within Nigeria’s port system.

“We believe that stronger cooperation between Nigeria and Denmark will create opportunities for knowledge sharing, institutional development and capacity building in the maritime sector,” he said.

The DG/CEO also highlighted the importance of effective port economic regulation in attracting investment, improving service delivery and promoting fair competition among operators.

He said NPERA remains committed to supporting reforms aimed at creating a more predictable and business-friendly port environment.

“Trade and the marine and blue economy have become critical components of Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda,” Akutah said, adding that the country was determined to unlock the full potential of its maritime resources.

The engagement with Danske Maritime formed part of efforts by the Nigerian delegation to deepen international partnerships and explore areas of cooperation that could support ongoing reforms in the country’s ports and maritime sector.

Akutah said Nigeria would continue to pursue strategic partnerships capable of strengthening its institutions and positioning its ports to compete more effectively in the global maritime industry.