The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr. Pius Akutah Ukeyima, Esq., MON, has engaged leaders of the Abuja Shippers’ Association in discussions aimed at addressing key logistics and infrastructure challenges confronting shippers in the Federal Capital Territory.
The meeting, held on January 28, 2026, at the Council’s Abuja Liaison Office, served as an introductory interface between the NSC management and the Association. President of the Abuja Shippers’ Association, Mr. John Ugwu, used the occasion to outline persistent challenges faced by shippers, notably the heavy dependence on seaports, poor road infrastructure, and the high cost of logistics.
Ugwu stressed the need for a functional rail transport system and the operationalisation of the Baro Inland Port, describing both as critical to reducing cargo movement costs and easing access to markets. He also drew attention to difficulties shippers encounter in accessing affordable financing.
Responding, Dr. Akutah assured the Association that the Council is actively collaborating with the Nigerian Railway Corporation to strengthen rail connectivity for cargo evacuation. He explained that the Baro Inland Port requires dredging before it can become fully operational, noting that the project is capital-intensive but remains a priority. On financing concerns, he said the Council is open to engaging the Bank of Industry to explore possible loan support for shippers.
Earlier, the Deputy Director of the Abuja Liaison Office, Dr. Pauline Osasona, highlighted the strategic advantages of belonging to a recognised Shippers’ Association, including stronger advocacy, improved trade facilitation, and enhanced networking opportunities within the maritime and logistics value chain.
The meeting reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to stakeholder engagement as a tool for promoting efficient, cost-effective, and multimodal cargo transportation across the country.
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