A former Governor of Katsina State, Ibrahim Shema and 10 others were on Monday in Abuja, inaugurated into the Board of Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.
Inaugurating the board, Oyetola stated that event was more than a ceremonial rite; as it represented the activation of institutional governance, the entrenchment of accountability, and the commencement of a renewed phase of purposeful oversight within our Marine and Blue Economy sector.
He stressed that President Bola Tinubu has approved the constitution of this Board in accordance with relevant statutory provisions.
The minister noted that this decisive action underscored the administration’s commitment to good governance, institutional effectiveness, and the strategic repositioning of the Marine and Blue Economy as a driver of national transformation.
Oyetola disclosed that the ministry is undertaking comprehensive reforms to reposition the sector as a vital pillar of economic growth and national development.
He added: “Our focus includes improving port efficiency and competitiveness, strengthening trade facilitation, enhancing marine transportation, deepening fisheries and aquaculture development, expanding coastal and maritime opportunities, and safeguarding environmental sustainability.
“The Board of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council is expected to align fully with these priorities and provide the strategic oversight required to translate policy into measurable outcomes.
“The Nigerian Shippers’ Council occupies a critical position as the designated Port Economic Regulator, entrusted with promoting efficiency, fairness, and transparency in port pricing, charges, and service delivery.
“The effective discharge of this mandate is essential to reducing the cost of doing business at our ports, facilitating trade, protecting the interests of shippers, and strengthening Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and global commerce.
“As members of this Board, you bear a solemn public trust. You are charged with providing policy guidance, strategic direction, and vigilant oversight in accordance with the law.
“Let me emphasize that while Management is responsible for day-to-day operations, the Board’s duty is to ensure that the Council remains faithful to its mandate, complies with government policies, and consistently delivers value to Nigerian shippers and to the national economy.”
Speaking further, Oyetola asserted that the Board must never become a routine forum, saying every meeting must be purposeful, every deliberation must lead to clear and actionable decisions, and every decision must advance efficiency, fairness, and competitiveness in the maritime sector.
“Your effectiveness will be measured not by the frequency of meetings held, but by the tangible impact of your decisions on trade facilitation, cost reduction, and national competitiveness.
“As we inaugurate this Board today, we do so with confidence in your collective experience, professionalism, and dedication to national service. I urge you to justify the trust reposed in you by Mr. President and the Nigerian people through integrity, discipline, and demonstrable results,” the minister said.
Other members of the Board includes:Pius Akutah, Chief Emi Membere-Otaji (OON), Chief John Aluya, Hon. Chiji Collins, Hon. Funmilayo Olasehinde, Funmilola Adeoti, Mele Giadem, Mrs Hafsatu Mohammed, Hon. Maharazu Dayi, and Mrs Uzoamaka Okereke.