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Stakeholders Unanimously Endorse Repeal and Re-Enactment of Shippers’ Council Bill

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*Stakeholders Unanimously Endorse Repeal and Re-Enactment of Shippers’ Council Bill

 

In a resounding show of support, stakeholders in the maritime industry have overwhelmingly accepted the proposed repeal and re-enactment of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council and Economic Regulatory Bill during a public hearing held at the National Assembly in Abuja.

The public hearing, which was attended by representatives from various sectors of the industry, including shipping companies, freight forwarders, and cargo owners, saw a unanimous endorsement of the proposed legislation.

The new bill, which seeks to repeal the existing Nigerian Shippers’ Council Act and enact a new Shippers’ Council and Economic Regulatory Act, aims to strengthen the regulatory framework for the maritime industry and promote economic growth.

Recall that following the Federal Government’s announcement of the NSC as a Port economic regulator, the agency has struggled to enforce sanctions on ports and shipping stakeholders in the nation’s maritime sector due to the absence of an enabling law backing up their status as a Port Economic Regulator.

Stakeholders, on Monday, praised the proposed legislation for its provisions, which include the establishment of a more effective and efficient regulatory framework, the promotion of competition and innovation, and the protection of the rights of shippers and other stakeholders.

During the public hearing organised by the Committee on Shipping Services and Related Matters, the Executive Secretary/ CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Pius Ukeyima Akutah, described the legislation as timely at this stage of our nation’s growth and development.

He said the need for a regulatory regime to ensure effective and efficient economic regulation for the control of tariffs, rates and charges to prevent arbitrariness is necessary.

Among many others, Akutah said the Bill will enhance the ease of doing business, minimize the high cost of doing business at the ports, ensure seamless movement of cargo, promote competition and enhance the quality of service.

“The Bill essentially embellishes the fundamentals of Economic Regulation, making all actors play by the rules,” he added.

“The Nigerian Government is evolving a Regulatory Agenda across all sectors, with economic contribution as the goal. The shipping industry should not be an exception.

“There is, therefore, no better time than now to enact this, Bill. I therefore most respectfully, urge esteemed stakeholders to make meaningful contributions toward its immediate passage and enactment.”

He further expressed his gratitude to the stakeholders for their support and assured them that the council would continue to work towards ensuring a conducive business environment for all players in the industry.

Chief Adebayo Sarumi, a former CEO of the Shippers Council said a regulatory body is late by no less than 20 years.

According to him, this will bring about a level playing field, and regulatory services and ensure that the consumers do not suffer.

Malam Hassan Bello, a former CEO of the Shippers Council said the Bill will be a crowning glory of the Federal Government’s efforts in the maritime sector.

“This proposed agency will fill the regulatory vacuum that has bedevilled the sector, the reason the ports are not making contributions. It will end the monopoly.

“The bill is fundamental and essential and will correct anomalies and guarantee efficiency and use of tech in ports operation.“

Meanwhile, Boma Alabi, SAN, representing the Shipping Lines Association of Nigeria said the body welcomes any act that will improve efficiency, lower costs and reduce bottlenecks.

She further said the Nigerian ports cost the nation twice as much as our neighbours.

Ahmed Rabiu, a concerned stakeholder said the Bill has been overdue since the time ports were concessioned, calling for its speedy consideration.

Other stakeholders like the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), and the Nigeria Economic Summit Group backed the development.

In separate remarks, they said the absence of a regulatory agency stifled economic activities.

They further said the passage of the Bill will have a positive impact on the maritime industry, leading to increased efficiency, reduced costs, and improved services for shippers and other stakeholders.

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Revival Atmosphere as Dominion City Launches Night of Glory 2026.

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Revival Atmosphere as Dominion City Launches Night of Glory 2026.

 

 

Lagos – The atmosphere was charged with faith, worship, and expectancy as Dominion City’s Global Camp Meeting 2026 entered its peak with the first day of the “Night of Glory,” drawing thousands of worshippers to Lagos and Enugu in a powerful display of spiritual revival.

 

Held at the Golden Heart Place, Ajah, Lagos, the Friday evening gathering marked a significant moment in the ongoing six-day conference themed “Redigging the Wells of Our Fathers.” Participants from across Nigeria and beyond converged both physically and online, united by a shared hunger for divine encounter and transformation.

 

From the outset, the meeting was characterised by intense worship sessions led by gospel ministers, creating an atmosphere many attendees described as “tangible with God’s presence.” The night quickly transitioned into sessions of fervent prayers, prophetic ministrations, and teachings centred on restoration, healing, and spiritual awakening.

 

Presiding over the meeting, Dr. David Ogbueli, founder of Dominion City, charged participants to reconnect with foundational truths and spiritual disciplines necessary for personal and societal transformation. He emphasised that the “Night of Glory” was designed as a moment of divine visitation where destinies could be reshaped.

 

“As we redig the wells of our fathers, we are reconnecting with ancient graces and covenant realities that produce undeniable results,” he declared.

 

As the night unfolded, several remarkable testimonies were shared, reinforcing the theme of supernatural intervention. Among them was the case of a 14-year-old girl who was reportedly delivered from a seven-year struggle with pornography addiction, an experience that drew emotional reactions from the congregation.

 

Other testimonies included reported healing from cancer, recovery from a severe skin infection attributed to spiritual affliction, the healing of a heart-related condition, and three years of a non-menstrual period. Attendees also recounted instances of restored hearing and sight, with individuals testifying to improvements from partial deafness and blindness, among others.

 

Fathers of faith present were Barrister Emeka Nwankpa, Pastor Yemi Ayodele, Rev. Pade Tokun, Apostle Gbenga Adegbenro, Rev. Mike Adegbile, and others. Other Ministers present, including Pastor Dr. Charles Ndifon, Pastor Randy Mitchell, Apostle Ikechukwu Nnajiofor, and others, reinforced messages of faith and the power of God to intervene in human situations. They encouraged worshippers to remain steadfast and receptive, noting that miracles often spring from an atmosphere of unwavering belief.

 

Beyond the miraculous, the gathering also underscored a broader call to moral and spiritual renewal. Church leaders reiterated the need for believers to embody values that can positively influence society, especially in a time of perceived moral decline.

 

The “Night of Glory” is part of the larger Global Camp Meeting, which began on April 1 and will run through April 6, featuring daily teachings, leadership sessions, and specialized programmes for youths and families.

 

Organisers say expectations remain high for the second night, with many believing that the wave of miracles and transformation witnessed on the first night is only the beginning.

 

For many attendees, however, the message was clear beyond the signs and wonders; the true essence of the gathering lies in a renewed commitment to live transformed lives and impact society. //END.//

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Easter: Obasa Urges Christians To Embrace Hope, Unity, Renewal

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Easter: Obasa Urges Christians To Embrace Hope, Unity, Renewal

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has congratulated Christian faithful in Lagos and across Nigeria on the celebration of Easter, urging them to draw strength from the lessons of Christ’s resurrection.

In his Easter message, released by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Dave Agboola, Obasa described the season as a reminder of victory over despair, renewal after trials, and the triumph of light over darkness. He noted that just as Christ overcame death, Nigeria can overcome its current challenges if citizens remain steadfast, prayerful, and committed to unity.

“Easter is a season of hope and renewal. As a nation, we face economic pressures and security concerns, but the resurrection teaches us that no situation is beyond redemption. Let us roll away the stones of division and despair, and work together for peace, justice, and prosperity,” the Speaker said.

He called on Lagosians to continue to show love and compassion to one another, stressing that collective effort is key to building a stronger Lagos and a better Nigeria.

Obasa prayed that the joy of Easter would fill homes with renewed faith and guide both leaders and citizens toward a brighter future.

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PDP CHIEFTAIN, ONIRETI RESIGNS FROM PARTY, CITES PERSONAL REFLECTION

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*PDP CHIEFTAIN, ONIRETI RESIGNS FROM PARTY, CITES PERSONAL REFLECTION

 

A former House of Representatives candidate, Olufemi Onireti, has formally resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State.

His resignation was conveyed in a letter addressed to the Chairman of PDP Osupa Ward 9, Ogbomoso North Local Government, on Thursday.

Onireti described the decision as a difficult but necessary step after what he termed a period of “deep personal reflection.”

“I hereby formally resign my membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), effective immediately,” he wrote.

He acknowledged his years of active involvement in the party, including contesting for the House of Representatives in the last general election, noting that the PDP had offered him a platform for political participation, service, and growth.

Despite his exit, Onireti expressed appreciation to party leaders and members for the support he enjoyed over the years.

“I remain grateful for the opportunity to serve and for the relationships and experiences I gained during my time in the party.
I wish the party well in its future endeavours,” he added.

The development is expected to generate discussions within the Ogbomoso North political circle, as observers await his next political move.

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