Shipper’s Council strategic initiatives’ll boost port efficiency, competitiveness – Barr. Akutah
Stories by Seun Ibiyemi
Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Barr. Pius Akutah, has articulated a forward-looking vision for enhancing the efficiency and competitiveness of Nigeria’s ports through strategic regulatory activities.
According to Akutah, the Council’s role as Port Economic Regulator is integral to optimising cargo throughput and improving overall port operations.
Akutah’s remarks came during a recent courtesy visit from Mr. Lars Kastrup, the Global Chief Executive Officer of PIL Shipping and his delegation to the NSC’s Lagos headquarters.
In his address, Akutah commended PIL Shipping for its significant investment in Nigeria, highlighting the company’s contribution to the country’s logistics infrastructure.
He underscored the mutual benefits of this collaboration, suggesting that both PIL Shipping and Nigeria stand to gain from strengthened partnerships.
The NSC Chief also encouraged PIL Shipping to leverage the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which could further bolster their operations within Nigeria.
Akutah detailed the Council’s ongoing efforts to develop Inland Dry Ports, a strategic move designed to extend shipping services to Nigeria’s hinterlands, thereby enhancing logistics efficiency.
Regarding container indemnity, Akutah outlined the NSC’s commitment to developing a new container regime that will streamline trade processes and address existing challenges faced by shippers.
This initiative aims to facilitate smoother and more efficient trade operations across the sector.
Lars Kastrup, in turn, expressed appreciation for the strong support and collaborative spirit between PIL Shipping and the NSC.
He reiterated PIL Shipping’s dedication to expanding Nigerian exports to global markets, recognising Nigeria’s pivotal role in international trade dynamics.
Kastrup also shared plans to implement a training program for PIL Shipping staff in Nigeria, with an offer to extend this program to NSC staff to enhance their operational expertise.
The training will be conducted locally, reflecting PIL Shipping’s commitment to capacity building in Nigeria.
The Regional Managing Director of PIL Shipping for Ghana, Kelvin Taylor, added his perspective on Nigeria’s economic strategy.
He advised the country to focus on diversifying its economy away from oil dependency and to prioritise export growth.
Taylor applauded the Nigerian government’s economic reform programs, acknowledging their positive impact on the nation’s economic landscape.
The engagement highlights a significant partnership between the NSC and PIL Shipping, with a shared vision of advancing Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Through collaborative efforts and strategic initiatives, both parties aim to enhance port operations, boost economic growth, and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global shipping arena.
