Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Pius Akutah, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as a catalyst for far reaching reforms in Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy sector.
Akutah made the remarks during an oversight visit by the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, led by Chairman Wasiu Eshinlokun-Sanni, to the Council’s headquarters in Lagos. He commended the President’s political will and strategic vision, which he said have laid the foundation for modernization and sustainable growth in the maritime industry.
The NSC boss also lauded the leadership of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, noting that his stewardship has repositioned the Council as a key driver of trade facilitation and regulatory reforms.
A highlight of the visit was the recognition of the newly passed Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) Bill 2025, which Akutah described as a “historic milestone” that would enhance transparency, fairness, and competitiveness at Nigeria’s ports.
“This is a transformative development that will forever reshape the maritime landscape. It reflects the legislature’s commitment to strengthening one of Nigeria’s most critical economic sectors,” Akutah declared.
On his part, Senator Eshinlokun-Sanni emphasized that the oversight exercise was in line with the National Assembly’s constitutional mandate to ensure accountability and efficiency in the operations of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
“Our visit to the Nigerian Shippers’ Council is part of our duty to monitor and evaluate the implementation of government policies,” the lawmaker stated, reaffirming the Committee’s support for the Council’s transition into the newly established NPERA.
