Akutah Dismisses Political Distraction Claims, Reaffirms Focus on Maritime Reforms

By Amina Ojelabi

The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Barr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima, has dismissed claims that alleged political ambitions are distracting him from his official duties, reaffirming his full commitment to maritime sector reforms.
Akutah made the clarification amid speculation in industry circles suggesting his attention was being divided between regulatory responsibilities and emerging political interests concerns some stakeholders linked to recent tensions over tariff adjustments and policy decisions.
Rejecting the claims as unfounded, he described them as a misrepresentation of his priorities, emphasizing that his focus remains firmly on executing the Council’s statutory mandate.
He noted that while public officials are often subject to political speculation, such narratives should not overshadow institutional responsibilities or be used to undermine regulatory actions taken in good faith and in accordance with the law.
According to him, all decisions under his leadership have been driven by legal frameworks, stakeholder consultations, and the need to maintain balance within the maritime economy, rather than personal considerations.
Akutah stressed that the Council’s core priorities include protecting national trade interests, ensuring fair regulation of the port system, and sustaining stability across the shipping and logistics value chain.
He added that political rumours and external commentary have not altered the agency’s regulatory direction, noting that his administration remains focused on reforms aimed at improving efficiency and transparency in the sector.
The NSC boss urged stakeholders and the public to assess his performance based on policy outcomes and sector impact rather than speculation, reiterating that the Council will continue to operate strictly within its mandate.
He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Nigeria’s maritime sector, stating that ongoing regulatory interventions are designed to support economic growth, safeguard stakeholder interests, and strengthen the country’s position in regional and global trade.