By Ahmed Ahmed
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), has urged stakeholders in the North-East to embrace and utilise inland dry ports to boost trade.
The Execufive Secretary of the council, Dr Akutah Pius said this at a stakeholders’ interactive session in Bauchi on Tuesday,
He underscored the importance of inland dry ports in decongesting seaports and boosting Nigeria’s competitiveness on the global stage.
Akutah said that establishment of inland dry ports would enhance trade facilitation and logistics efficiency as well as ease the conduct of international trade.
“The establishment of Inland Dry Ports across Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe states, will support job creation and make international trade more accessible to shippers in the region.” he said.
Akutah commended Bauchi and Borno state governments for their commitment toward inland dry port development, and urged other states in the region to emulate them.
He reiterated the commitment of the council to supporting dry port initiatives in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu administration.
According to Akutah, the council plays a key role in promoting fair trade practices, ensuring efficient port services, monitoring compliance and mediating in trade-related disputes.
Mr Nanbol Nanle, the Acting Zonal Director of the council in the region, advised stakeholders to engage with the council for information and support.
He said that periodic seminars and meetings would be organised to strengthen stakeholders’ engagement.
Also speaking, Mohammed Salis, Bauchi Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, said the inland dry port project had reached 70 percent completion in the state.
He advocated strong regional integration and urged state governments to align with the federal government’s efforts for sustainable development.
