The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to ongoing maritime sector reforms.
Speaking during a recent high-level visit to the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) headquarters in Lagos, Akume praised the leadership of the NSC and emphasised the agency’s critical role in advancing the Marine and Blue Economy. He reiterated the government’s support for strategic initiatives aimed at transforming the port sector, describing the reforms as pivotal to boosting trade efficiency and economic growth.
“The Federal Government remains committed to supporting institutions like the Shippers’ Council that are at the forefront of reforming our maritime and trade logistics ecosystem,” Akume said. He further explained President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dedication to national development through investments in infrastructure, education, and economic empowerment.
Dr. Akutah Pius, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the NSC, welcomed the SGF and noted that the visit underscored the Council’s relevance in shaping Nigeria’s port and trade policy landscape.
“This visit by the SGF is a strong validation of the Council’s pivotal role in regulating and facilitating trade at our ports,” said Dr. Akutah.
He also appealed for stronger institutional backing as the NSC transitions into the Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA), a move that promises to enhance transparency, competitiveness, and investor confidence in the sector.
At the meeting, there was a shared commitment to deeper collaboration among stakeholders to create a more efficient, modern and investor-friendly maritime environment aligned with President Tinubu’s economic agenda.