The Nigerian Shippers’ Council, NSC, has revealed it saved billions of Naira for Nigeria by performing its statutory roles and functions.
This was disclosed by the Executive Secretary of NSC, Pius Akutah, on Sunday. The Executive Secretary stated this during his maiden visit to Kaduna to interact with the Council’s staff and the State Shippers Association.
Speaking at the meeting, Akutah noted that the Council’s dispute resolution mechanism was effective and it bolstered its operations.
He pointed that complaints such as loss of cargo and charges accompanied by it from owners, among other issues, were handled professionally and resolved by the council.
Akutah also praised President Bola Tinubu’s efforts at revamping rail transportation system. He noted that it would go a long way in ensuring a viable means of moving cargo from the seaport to land.
“Rail transportation is the best and most effective and cheaper means of transporting cargoes from the hinterland to the seaport.”
Akutah recalled that the Council and the Nigerian Railways Corporation (NRC) had signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance rail transport integration in ports.
He noted 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 Executive Secretary also revealed that there were ongoing discussions by the Federal Government on the repair and use of the old light gauge. He stated that this would be dedicated for cargo movements alone.
Akutah emphasized no matter how expensive the rail system was, it was crucial to build rail lines. He, therefore, extolled the efforts the Federal Government to revamp the rail lines.
The Executive Secretary described the Shippers association as a critical component of what the Council does. He noted that they protect their interests to ensure they are very strong and work to support the activities of trade in the country.
“We are working to see how the national body of the Shippers association is put together. So, that they will continue the good work they are doing,” Akutah said.
Speaking on the Cargo Defence Fund, CDF, Akutah stated that the initiative provides comprehensive legal and technical support to importers and exporters. These, he said, include services like litigation loans, foreign legal representation, and risk management advice.
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 it aims to empower the NSC to effectively regulate the shipping industry. And also to protect the interests of shippers, and promote economic growth.
“The proposed legislation would bring about much-needed transparency, accountability, and efficiency to the sector,” he said.
source: Daily Post
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