The minister of marine and blue economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has inaugurated a 10-member governing board to provide oversight for the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC).

Speaking on Monday in Abuja, Mr Oyetola said President Bola Tinubu approved the board to strengthen institutional governance and accountability in the sector.

The minister said the federal ministry of marine and blue economy was implementing reforms to reposition the sector as a major driver of economic growth.

“Today represents the activation of institutional governance, the entrenchment of accountability, and the commencement of renewed, purposeful oversight in the sector,” he said.

Mr Oyetola said the board’s constitution complied with statutory provisions and reflected the administration’s commitment to good governance and institutional effectiveness.

He described the NSC as a critical institution, serving as Port Economic Regulator to ensure efficiency, fairness and transparency in port pricing and service delivery.

According to him, effective regulation will reduce port costs, facilitate trade, protect shippers’ interests and enhance Nigeria’s regional and global competitiveness.

The minister said government priorities include improving port efficiency, strengthening trade facilitation, enhancing marine transport, and deepening fisheries and aquaculture development.

He said the board was expected to align with these priorities and provide strategic oversight to translate policy into measurable outcomes.

“As board members, you bear a solemn public trust to provide policy guidance, strategic direction and vigilant oversight,” Mr Oyetola said.

He stressed that while management handles daily operations, the board must ensure compliance with mandates, policies and value delivery.

Mr Oyetola urged close collaboration between the board and management, guided by professionalism, mutual respect and commitment to service excellence.

He warned against conflicts and distractions, insisting all decisions must comply with extant laws, policies, guidelines and circulars.

The minister assured the board of the ministry’s full support in discharging its responsibilities.

In his acceptance speech, board chairman, Ibrahim Shema, thanked Mr Tinubu for the opportunity to serve in a strategic national capacity.

Mr Shema, a former Katsina State governor, also appreciated Mr Oyetola for the confidence reposed in the board and his leadership in the sector.

“We will discharge our duties with dedication, professionalism and integrity,” Mr Shema said.

He pledged effective oversight to strengthen regulatory efficiency, enhance port performance, improve trade facilitation and support the national economic agenda.

Mr Shema assured that the board would work closely with the ministry and NSC management to deliver sustainable results for shippers and the wider economy.

Other board members include Pius Akutah, Emi Membere-Otaji, John Aluya, Chiji Collins, Funmilayo Olasehinde, Funmilola Adeoti, Mele Giadem, Hafsatu Mohammed, Maharazu Dayi and Uzoamaka Okereke. 

(NAN)