In a move to boost trade facilitation, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, acting as the Nation’s Port Economic Regulator, is actively advocating for the development of a Benue River Port.
The Benue River Port initiative was a central discussion point when members of the Benue State Shippers Association met with NSC Executive Secretary/CEO Akutah Pius Ukeyima, Esq, Ph.D, at the Abuja Liaison office to advocate for stronger developmental support.
During a courtesy visit, the Shippers Association stressed the dire need for the Benue River Port, positioning it as critical infrastructure to boost trade for farmers, traders, and neighboring states.
Executive Secretary Akutah welcomed and commended the association members. He offered firm assurances of the NSC’s unwavering commitment to supporting strategic projects Benue State, revealing that the Council had already initiated formal communication with the Benue State government concerning the Inland Dry Port (IDP) project, and expressed a strong willingness to back the proposed Makurdi river port.
His word; “The Benue River Port is vital to enhancing regional trade and improving logistics for shippers,”
Ultimately, Akutah assured the Association that the NSC is prepared to collaborate closely with the Benue State government to transform the port vision into a tangible reality.
Other areas that the NSC has plans of enhancing are on capacity building for shippers in Benue through training on the Cargo Defence Fund and the establishment of Border Information Centres, aimed at smoothing trade processes.
Additionally, the Director of the Consumer Affairs Department, Mrs. Ify Okolue, notified the Association of a forthcoming sensitization seminar aimed at empowering local shippers and relevant stakeholders.
Dr. Mhir Aii Iyenge, leader of the Benue State Shippers’ Association, utilized the visit to emphasize the significant challenges shippers encounter in the absence of critical infrastructure, formally requesting that the NSC facilitate increased awareness of existing opportunities and programs.
