society
Stakeholders Unanimously Endorse Repeal and Re-Enactment of Shippers’ Council Bill
*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.
society
DR. CHETACHI ECTON NWOGA REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO APC, HONOURED IN AHIAZU MBAISE, DONATES MILLIONS TO PARTY
DR. CHETACHI ECTON NWOGA REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO APC, HONOURED IN AHIAZU MBAISE, DONATES MILLIONS TO PARTY
Dr. Chetachi Ecton Nwoga, Owerri Zone Senatorial Hopeful, continues to demonstrate strong leadership, grassroots connection, and unwavering commitment to the unity and growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Imo State.
During a courtesy visit to the APC Secretariat in Ahiazu Mbaise, Dr. Nwoga was warmly received by the party chairman and key stakeholders. In a remarkable show of support, she donated ten million naira (₦10,000,000) to the party at the local government level. In recognition of her impactful leadership and contributions, she was also conferred with the prestigious traditional title Ada Ahiazu Dum by the 21 Ezes of Ahiazu Mbaise.
Further reinforcing her role within the party, Dr. Nwoga participated in a crucial APC stakeholders’ meeting in Imo State, attended by the Executive Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma. The meeting served as a strategic platform for dialogue, unity, and strengthening the party’s direction across the state.
Dr. Nwoga emphasized the importance of cohesion among party members, describing unity as the bedrock of sustainable political success. She reaffirmed her strong support for the Charter of Equity, championed by the Governor, noting that it remains essential for fairness, inclusion, and political balance in Imo State.
Highlighting her contributions, she noted her support toward the reconstruction of the APC State Secretariat as part of efforts to reposition the party for efficiency and long-term stability.
In a significant demonstration of commitment, Dr. Nwoga donated forty million naira (₦40,000,000) at the stakeholders’ meeting. This follows her earlier contribution of thirty million naira (₦30,000,000) to the APC Owerri Zone, bringing her total support to eighty million naira (₦80,000,000) to the APC in Imo State so far.
Dr. Nwoga reiterated that unity, sacrifice, and a shared vision remain critical to achieving political stability and sustainable development, urging party members to remain committed to the collective progress of Imo State.
society
No Retreat, No Complacency: Buratai Insists Fighting Spirit Must Remain Unbroken as Troops Turn the Tide
“No Retreat, No Complacency: Buratai Insists Fighting Spirit Must Remain Unbroken as Troops Turn the Tide”
ABUJA — Former Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, has said Nigerian troops have recorded significant operational successes across multiple theatres of operation, noting that recent gains indicate a shifting momentum in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other security threats.
Buratai disclosed this in a post on his verified Facebook page, stating that coordinated efforts by the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force have contributed to sustained pressure on criminal elements across the country.
In the North-East, troops under Operation Hadin Kai repelled a major attack on Kukareta community in Borno State, killing 24 terrorists and recovering a cache of weapons, including rifles, machine guns and rocket-propelled grenade launchers.
He added that follow-up operations led to the discovery of additional terrorist casualties, while troops in Kanamma, Yobe State, neutralised four insurgents alongside a high-value ISWAP commander identified as Abu Jarir.
Buratai further stated that airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force in the Lake Chad region targeted gatherings of ISWAP fighters on Kaniram Island, resulting in heavy casualties and disruption of their movement.
In the North-West, troops under Operation Fansan Yamma recorded notable successes against bandits, including the recovery of over 200 rustled cattle in Katsina State after an encounter with a group led by a suspected kingpin, Muhammad Filani.
He noted that similar operations in Zamfara State and Kaduna State led to the destruction of criminal hideouts, recovery of arms, rescue of kidnapped victims and arrest of suspects.
In the North-Central, Buratai said troops of Operation Enduring Peace arrested suspected militia members involved in cattle rustling in Plateau State and recovered stolen livestock, while ambush operations led to the neutralisation of armed bandits.
He also disclosed that troops of Operation Delta Safe uncovered illegal oil bunkering activities in Rivers State, recovering large quantities of stolen crude oil
In the South-East, security forces arrested a suspected commander of the Indigenous People of Biafra known as “Calamity,” allegedly linked to attacks on security personnel.
Buratai further revealed that the remains of two soldiers killed in 2022—Master Warrant Officer Linus Musa Audu and Lance Corporal Gloria Mathew—had been recovered and would be accorded full military burial honours.
He attributed the operational gains to improved intelligence gathering, enhanced inter-agency collaboration and the resilience of troops on the frontlines.
While acknowledging that the fight against insecurity is not yet over, Buratai urged Nigerians to sustain support for the military and other security agencies through credible intelligence and encouragement.
He stressed that the moment demands heightened resolve from troops.
“The terrorists and bandits are weakened but still dangerous. This is the time to intensify operations and not relent,” he said.
Buratai also called on the media to maintain balanced reporting on security matters, noting that highlighting both successes and challenges remains essential to sustaining public trust and national morale.
society
IGP Disu Feted At Lagos Banquet, Credited With Leadership Shaped By The State
IGP Disu Feted At Lagos Banquet, Credited With Leadership Shaped By The State
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, was on Saturday honoured at a state banquet in Lagos, where he was celebrated as a proud son of the state whose career reflects discipline and service.
The event, hosted by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, brought together top government officials, security chiefs and community leaders to recognise the nation’s top police officer.
Speaking at the event, Sanwo-Olu described Disu as “one of our own,” noting that his journey was shaped by Lagos. He highlighted his academic background at Lagos State University and his upbringing on Lagos Island as key influences on his leadership and values.
Disu’s career progression was also spotlighted, particularly his tenure as head of the Rapid Response Squad in Lagos, where he was credited with strengthening security operations and improving public confidence.
“Tonight is a celebration of service and the Lagos spirit,” the Governor said, adding that the state takes pride in Disu’s achievements at the national level.
The event featured a ceremonial toast in honour of the Inspector-General, who was described as the “OG Good Guy of the Good Guys.”
In his response, Disu expressed appreciation for the recognition, dedicating the honour to officers of the Nigeria Police Force working daily to ensure security across the country.
A native of Lagos Island and an alumnus of Lagos State University, Disu has held several strategic command positions prior to his appointment as Inspector-General of Police. His leadership of the Rapid Response Squad is widely regarded as pivotal to Lagos’ security framework.
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