The Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Akutah Pius Ukeyima, Esq, MON,FCILT, Ph.D received the Director General of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Mr. Agabaidu Chukwuemeka Jideani, at the Council’s Liaison Office on Wednesday, April 29. This high-level engagement marks a new chapter in the partnership between the Port Economic Regulator and the organized private sector, aimed at unlocking fresh opportunities for Nigeria’s economic expansion.
In his welcome address, Dr. Akutah underscored that the engagement was more than a ceremonial gesture; it was a mission-driven call to action. He urged both organizations to take practical steps toward their shared goal of expanding the non-oil trade sector through joint advocacy, capacity building, and knowledge sharing, alongside specialized training in export documentation and Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).
Dr. Akutah proposed a “symbiotic relationship” built on joint advocacy to dismantle unfair shipping practices and trade barriers. He further recommended leveraging the Cargo Defence Fund to finance specialized training for shippers, aimed at eliminating “substandard packaging”—a critical pitfall that frequently triggers the rejection of Nigerian goods abroad.
In response, ACCI Director General Mr. Agabaidu Chukwuemeka Jideani outlined the Chamber’s key initiatives and invited the NSC to collaborate across four strategic pillars:
> Business Entrepreneurship Skills and Technology (BEST) Centre: A dedicated hub for capacity building that equips exporters with essential knowledge on packaging standards and international documentation rules.
> Dispute Resolution Centre (DRC): A specialized center providing Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)—including mediation and arbitration—to help businesses resolve commercial conflicts swiftly and cost-effectively.> National Policy Advocacy Centre (NPAC): The Chamber’s liaison wing that bridges the gap between the private sector and government, ensuring national policies remain pro-business and conducive to investmen
> Abuja Trade Centre (ATC) & Future Initiatives: Beyond organizing the Abuja International Trade Fair, the ATC is poised to lead joint trade missions with the NSC to boost global visibility for Nigerian enterprises.The meeting culminated with the Executive Secretary/CEO directing the Head of the Abuja Liaison Office, Dr. Pauline Osasona, to inaugurate a dedicated working team. This task force is charged with the immediate implementation of these strategic initiatives, prioritizing the rollout of specialized training sessions and joint preparations for the 2026 Abuja International Trade Fair.
