…Seeks conversion of NSC to Nigerian Shipping Commission
By Steve Agbota
The National Assembly has targeted 20 per cent contribution from the nation’s maritime sector to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2024 through legal backing as an important industry.
Chairman, House Committee on Shipping Services, Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki lamented that maritime sector is expected to deliver nothing less than 20 per cent to the nation’s GDP but is currently contributing 1 per cent or less.
Dasuki stated this on Thursday at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council Performance Special Retreat theme:
“Strengthening Economic Regulation of the Marine and Blue Economy,” Chairman, House Committee on Shipping Services, said everything that needed to do to change the narrative will be done accordingly.
He said there is need to strengthening economic regulation of Marine and Blue Economy and have a Nigerian Shipping Commission Council.
“With due respect to my colleagues at the National Assembly, we are part of the problems Nigeria is facing today. Emphasis to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), if we have done what is expected from us, we shouldn’t be where we are today as a nation.
“I as the chairman of overseeing Nigeria Shippers’ Council, we are going to be partner in progress to do all that is expected from you as the regulator of this important sector. On that note, I’ll highlight to you that even before the new Executive Security resume office, I have championed having important back up law as the regulating important agency.
“We are going to fast track that law and make sure you have legal backing to do what is expected of you. We will ensure that whatever is required to implement that is done in shortest possible time. Part of what we are to discuss is to how Strengthening economic regulation of Marine and Blue Economy. We should have a Nigerian Shipping Commission Council,” he added.
In his Opening remarks, the Executive Secretary/CEO of Shippers’ Council, Akutah Pius Ukeyima said that the Nigerian Shippers Council has long been at the forefront of catalysing innovation, championing progress, and navigating the dynamic waters of global trade.
“As we gather here today under the theme “Strengthening Economic Regulation of the Marine and Blue Economy,” we are embarking on a collective endeavor that holds profound significance for the future of our nation’s economic landscape.
“Today’s retreat marks not just a gathering of minds but a strategic convergence of wisdom, expertise, and foresight. It’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to shaping a future where the Marine and Blue economy sector becomes a beacon of sustainable development and prosperity,” he said.
According to him, the focus of the Council on economic regulation underscores a profound understanding that effective governance, equitable practices, and strategic policies serve as the bedrock for fostering a thriving blue economy.
“As we delve into discussions, debates, and sharing of ideas in the course of this retreat, let us remain steadfast in our dedication to charting a course that maximizes economic potential while safeguarding our marine resources for generations to come.
“I’m immensely proud to share that, at the recent ministerial retreat, our commitment to excellence was underscored. Furthermore, by the signing of performance bond with the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, the Council has pledged to unwavering dedication to accountability, efficiency, and delivering results that exceed expectations.
“This commitment should solidify our resolve to serve with utmost efficiency and effectiveness. Therefore, it is incumbent on us as an organization to align our Key Performance Indicators to that of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy as contained in the performance Bond signed with the Honourable Minister. This shall be the basis for measuring our performance as an organization. Consequently, I enjoined us to give in our individual and collective effort to work assiduously to take our organization to an enviable height amongst its contemporaries in the Ministry,” he said.
Together, he said the Council possess the collective intellect, experience, and determination needed to unlock the untapped potential of the nation’s maritime and blue economic space