NPCC, MAJAN Foster Mutual Collaboration for Port Efficiency

The Chairman, Nigerian Port Consultative Council (NPCC), Mr Bolaji Sunmola has expressed the commitment of the Council to foster mutual collaboration with the Maritime Journalists Association of Nigeria (MAJAN) to enhance overall Port efficiency in the Country.

Sunmola stated this on Thursday, October 24, 2024 at a roundtable session organised by MAJAN to address salient issues related to policies, operations and long term strategies for Nigeria Port Industry to thrive.

He emphasized on the need for media inclusivity, a collaborative vision to move the industry forward, “sharing critical information and aligning with regulatory standards to support the future growth and sustainability of Nigerian Port is key”.

The Chairman, who is synonymous with the National Association of Stevedoring Operators (NATSO) noted that the Council is expanding its Stakeholders Collaboration at both local and international level, and will appreciate MAJAN to be fully part of the Council’s programs.

“We are expanding Stakeholders Collaboration, deepening our partnership at both local and international level. We are ensuring that NPCC remains an inclusive place where various voices and perspectives thrives. We need more participation of relevant Stakeholders for sustainable development in the Port sector and we want you to be fully part of the program and processes. The only way we can thrive globally is through inclusion,” he stated.

While speaking on the pivotal role played by the Council in guiding the policies, operations and long term strategies for the Nigerian Ports Industry to thrive, Sunmola posited that the Council has fostered Stakeholders Collaboration, driven impactful initiative and also shaped an inclusive ecosystem where every voice is heard.

He reiterated that the renewed Nigeria Port Consultative Council’s activities focused on engaging the government agencies and maritime Stakeholders to develop policies that enhance good governance and operations; advocating Port infrastructure upgrade with particular focus on digitization, automation and sustainability to meet international standards; up skilling the capabilities of Stakeholders and ensuring they are equipped to meet global standards.

“We are working towards ensuring our ports operate within minimal environmental impact which is in line with international standards; we are realigning our internal structure to ensure agility, transparency and accountability; we are working towards implementing a single window system which will significantly improve efficiency and transparency.

“We aim to enhance Port efficiency, advocate for the adoption of global best practices, committed to reducing turnaround time and improving service delivery across Nigeria Ports. We are focused on transforming Nigeria Ports into competitive entities on the global scale, capable of attracting international Trade and investors,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Council, according to the Chairman is not without some challenges.

He identified regulatory complexity, operational bottlenecks with minimal staffing and administrative resources, as well as technological integration as part of the challenges currently faced by the Council.

The Vice Chairman of the Council, J C Anishere SAN, on her part, buttressed the importance of inclusivity as emphasised by the Chairman.

According to her, “The only way Nigeria can maintain peace, growth and development is by inclusion. It is the only way one can thrive through globally. Inclusivity is key, it is the way out to maintain peace, growth and development. Our team is driving towards inclusion. This is the very first time NPCC is having a female as part of the executive members. You can also see Jamkah Haladu in our midst. All these gender balancing align with the initiative of the presidency”.

Earlier in his opening remarks, MAJAN President, Comrade Jerry Aguigbo passed vote of confidence on the Chairman of the Council, saying he is a perfect fit for the big shoes left behind by late Otunba Kunle Folarin.

Comrade Aguigbo, who oversee activities of MAJAN and the Powerful Pen Newspaper, commended the unrelenting efforts of the Chairman towards making the Council more proactive, particularly after the passing on of Otunba Kunle Folarin, former Chairman of the Council.