The Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) has set an ambitious goal for 2024: to transform Nigeria into a premier maritime logistics hub in Africa. Speaking to journalists in Lagos, NSC Executive Secretary and CEO, Mr. Pius Akutah, emphasized that the Council is focusing on partnerships with major global shipping companies to optimize Nigeria’s maritime facilities and enhance logistics capabilities.
Akutah called on investors in the maritime sector to expand their investments, citing vast opportunities in Nigeria’s shipping industry. He highlighted that these efforts are particularly important given the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA).
According to Akutah, efficient shipping infrastructure is critical to reducing the high costs associated with moving goods across African countries, where goods are often routed through Europe before reaching other African destinations—a process that raises both time and logistics costs.
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“We are exploring partnerships with global shipping companies to maximize the potential of Nigeria’s growing maritime infrastructure. Our goal is to establish Nigeria as a logistics hub for Africa,” he explained, adding that discussions with industry stakeholders have already yielded promising commitments.
Akutah assured investors of NSC’s support and commitment to creating a profitable environment, where investments will thrive as the Council continues its role as the economic regulator for Nigeria’s ports. “Together, we aim to build the infrastructure needed to streamline goods movement and transshipment between Nigeria and other African nations, utilizing key ports like Apapa and Onne,” he said.
With this strategic push, the NSC envisions Nigeria as a central player in African logistics, ready to support the continent’s growing intra-regional trade.
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