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By Steve Agbota
The Chairman of the Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), Mrs. Vicky Haastrup, has affirmed that Nigeria’s ports are now better equipped to compete on a global scale following the transformative 2006 port concession programme.
Haastrup made the remark during a recent courtesy visit by a delegation from the Nigerian Ports Consultative Council (NPCC), led by its Chairman, Bolaji Sunmola, to her office in Apapa, Lagos. Addressing the NPCC team, Princess Haastrup urged the council to reclaim its position as a leading advisory authority on port affairs, emphasizing the importance of strategic advocacy in driving progress within the maritime sector.
“The NPCC was once a formidable voice in the port industry, shaping policies and driving improvements. It is crucial for the council to regain its lost glory and reposition itself as a pivotal contributor to the development of our ports,” she said.
Haastrup also highlighted the remarkable advancements brought about by the 2006 port concession reform, which transferred port operations to private terminal operators.
“Since the port concession reform, private terminal operators have invested heavily in modernising infrastructure, improving efficiency, and creating employment opportunities.
Today, our ports are better positioned to compete globally, and this progress must be sustained through effective collaboration with bodies like the NPCC,” she added.
In his remarks, Bolaji Sunmola, the NPCC Chairman, outlined the council’s core mandate, which includes advising on port efficiency, fostering stakeholder collaboration, and maintaining the competitiveness of Nigeria’s ports. However, he acknowledged financial challenges hindering the council’s operations.
“The NPCC plays a vital role in addressing the challenges facing the maritime sector, but we are battling severe funding constraints. We appeal to terminal operators and other stakeholders to support us in fulfilling our mandate,” Sunmola said.
Responding to the appeal, Mrs. Haastrup encouraged private operators and government agencies to rally behind the NPCC, underscoring the importance of collective efforts to advance the sector.
“The success of our maritime sector depends on collaboration. Terminal operators understand the value of a robust advisory body like the NPCC, and I believe together we can overcome these challenges,” she noted.
She further stressed the need for heightened advocacy to address systemic bottlenecks, improve infrastructure, and attract greater investments to Nigeria’s maritime industry.
