Akutah commends  Gov Abiodun as NSC, Ogun move to accelerate inland dry port project

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) and the Ogun State Government have reaffirmed their commitment to fast-tracking the development of the Gateway Inland Dry Port project as part of efforts to enhance cargo movement and improve trade logistics in the region.

The renewed collaboration was highlighted when the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the NSC, Dr. Akutah Pius MON, led the Council’s management team on a courtesy visit to the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, at the Government House in Abeokuta.

During the meeting, Dr. Akutah commended the state government for its strong commitment to the project, expressing confidence that the Gateway Inland Dry Port would soon become a reality.

According to him, the Shippers’ Council remains committed to promoting critical transport infrastructure such as inland dry ports across the country in order to facilitate seamless cargo movement and enhance the ease of doing business.

“It is our desire to promote critical transport infrastructure like the Inland Dry Port, which you have strongly supported. I believe we will achieve this before the end of your tenure,” Akutah said.

He noted that although several inland dry port projects exist across Nigeria, many have progressed slowly, adding that the Ogun State project stands out due to the government’s dedication and proactive approach.

“This is why we often cite the Ogun Inland Dry Port project as a positive example whenever discussions around dry port development arise,” he added.

Responding, Governor Dapo Abiodun appreciated the NSC leadership for the visit and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the successful development of the Gateway Inland Dry Port.

The governor described the project as a strategic infrastructure initiative that would significantly boost economic activities in the state, particularly for manufacturing firms and industrial operators.

Abiodun explained that once operational, the inland dry port would help address logistical bottlenecks associated with transporting raw materials and cargo from Lagos ports, thereby improving supply chain efficiency for industries located in Ogun State.

Industry observers believe the successful delivery of the Gateway Inland Dry Port would strengthen regional trade logistics, decongest seaports in Lagos, and support industrial growth within Ogun and neighbouring states.