NSC pledges support for Benue Shippers, Inland Dry Port project

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Benue Shippers Association has met with Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) officials at its Liaison Office in Abuja, seeking stronger collaboration and solutions to challenges facing shippers in the state.

Receiving the Benue Shippers Association in Abuja, the  Executive Secretary/CEO Dr. Pius Akutah,warmly welcomed the team and assured them of their commitment to protecting shippers’ interests.

Akutah highlighted plans to allocate space for the Association in the NSC Makurdi Area Office and support the development of a river port in Makurdi, while also announcing plans to train shippers on the Cargo Defence Fund and set up Border Information Centres to facilitate smoother trade.

The visit aims at seeking stronger collaboration and practical solutions to the challenges faced by shippers in the state.

The executive secretary explained that every NSC office across the country exists to serve shippers, and assured them that with the new site allocated for the NSC Makurdi Area Office, space would be created for the Association to have an office of their own.

Dr. Akutah emphasized that the Council remains committed to protecting the interests of shippers.

He acknowledged that only three Inland Dry Ports (IDPs) are fully operational so far but stressed that Benue’s IDP project is important. He revealed that the NSC has already written to the state government and is even willing to support plans for a river port in Makurdi.

According to him, the Council is ready to partner with the government to see these ideas come to life.

On sensitization, he noted that the NSC is eager to train both established and upcoming shippers, particularly on the Cargo Defence Fund and also plans to set up Border Information Centres to support smoother trade.

Also speaking at the meeting, the Director, Consumer Affairs Department, Mrs. Ify Okolue, assured the delegation that the NSC would step up sensitization and capacity-building efforts for shippers in the state.

The Director of Human Resources Management Department, Mr. Mustapha Zubairu, encouraged the Association to continue advocating strongly for the Benue IDP, noting that their voice is important in pushing the project forward.

Also contributing, the Director of the North-Central Zonal Coordinating Office, Dr. Jeremiah Okoliko, said stakeholders in the region are already showing interest and willingness to support the development of an IDP in Benue.

Dr. Mhir Aii Iyenge, leader of the delegation, highlighted challenges facing Benue shippers, including the need for an Inland Dry Port to support local farmers and traders, as well as neighboring states like Taraba and Adamawa.

He also cited the Association’s lack of office space and requested NSC’s help in educating members on available programs and opportunities. The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties committed to enhancing shipping services, trade, and business opportunities in Benue State.