Pius Akutah, the executive secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, says the council has saved Nigeria from spending billions of naira by performing its statutory roles and functions.

Mr Akutah said this on Sunday at a maiden visit to Kaduna to interact with the council’s staff and the State Shippers Association (KSSA).

He said that the council’s dispute resolution mechanism was effective and has bolstered its operations.

According to Mr Akutah, complaints such as loss of cargo and charges accompanied by it from owners, among other issues, were handled professionally and resolved by the council.

He also said that revamping rail transportation, which was on course by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, would go a long way in ensuring a viable means of moving cargo from the seaport to land.

Mr Akutah He recalled that the council and the Nigerian Railways Corporation had signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance rail transport integration in ports.

He explained that the collaboration was aimed at tackling the challenges of rail transportation costs and promoting the use of rail systems for efficient cargo movement.

The NSC chief disclosed that there were ongoing discussions by the federal government on the repair and use of the old light gauge, which would be dedicated for cargo movements alone. He stated that however expensive the rail system was, it was crucial to build rail lines, extolling efforts to revamp them by the government.

Describing the shippers association as a critical component of what the council does, he said they protect their interests to ensure they are strong and work to support the activities of trade in the country.

Speaking on the Cargo Defence Fund, he said the initiative provides importers and exporters comprehensive legal and technical support. They include services like litigation loans, foreign legal representation, and risk management advice.

He added that the CDF would ensure that cargoes were protected and business thrived.

Mr Akutah also commented on the Bill for an Act to repeal the NSC Act and enact the Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill and Related Matter.

He said the proposed legislation would bring much-needed transparency, accountability, and efficiency to the sector. It will also strengthen the council’s regulatory powers, reducing costs, increasing competition, and improving service delivery.

Mr Akutah reassured the association of Mr Tinubu’s commitment to giving the country a brand new maritime sector that deals not only with maritime activities but beyond the blue economy.

(NAN)