Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, on Monday inaugurated the Governing Board of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), charging members to strengthen regulatory efficiency and drive reforms that will reposition the maritime sector for national economic growth.
The ceremony, held at the Minister’s Conference Room in Abuja, marked what Oyetola described as a “significant milestone in consolidating institutional governance and accountability” within the Marine and Blue Economy architecture.
He noted that the Board’s constitution, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to good governance, operational transparency, and the strategic transformation of the maritime industry into a major economic enabler.
Oyetola emphasised the pivotal role of the Shippers’ Council as Nigeria’s Port Economic Regulator, responsible for promoting fairness, efficiency, and transparency in port operations, pricing, and service delivery.
“Effective regulation remains essential to reducing the cost of doing business at our ports, safeguarding the interests of shippers, and boosting Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and global trade,” he said.
He urged the newly inaugurated Board to provide strong policy direction, uphold professionalism, and ensure that its decisions deliver measurable results in trade facilitation, cost reduction, and sectoral competitiveness. The Minister assured the Board of the Ministry’s full support as it embarks on its mandate.
The Board is chaired by former Katsina State Governor, Dr Ibrahim Shehu Shema. Other members include Dr Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary/CEO of the NSC; Dr Emi Membere-Otaji (NACCIMA); Mr John Aluya (MAN); Rt Hon Chiji Collins; Mrs Olufunmilayo Olaseinde; Dr Funmilola Rashidat Adeoti; Alhaji Mele Kofo Gladem; Mrs Hafsatu Mohammed (NNPCL); Hon Maharazu Adamu Dayi; and Mrs Uzoamaka Okereke of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.
Responding, Shema expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the Minister for the opportunity to serve, pledging that the Board would operate with integrity, professionalism, and dedication.
He assured that members would work collaboratively with the Ministry and the Council’s Management to deliver tangible results for shippers and contribute meaningfully to national economic advancement.
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council serves as Nigeria’s Port Economic Regulator, promoting efficiency, transparency, competitiveness, and fairness in port operations while safeguarding the interests of shippers and improving the maritime trade environment.