By Adedapo Adesanya
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has launched the operational manual for inland dry port projects as part of efforts to boost efficiency.
The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of NSC, Mr Akutah Pius, in a statement said that the council had played a pivotal role in ensuring the development of inland dry ports across designated locations in the country.
He said that the Jos Inland Dry in Heipang, Plateau State was one of the dry port projects being facilitated by the NSC to bring shipping facilities to shippers in the hinterlands.
“It is also to create employment opportunities for citizens and accrue substantial revenue to the government,” he said.
He said that, with concerted efforts of the host state government and other key players, the Jos Inland Dry Port project would soon become a reality.
According to him, the Jos Inland Dry Port is strategically located to serve not only the host state but also neighbouring states.
He noted that the Plateau State Investment and Property Development Company had acquired Jos Inland Dry Port from Duncan Maritime Services Limited in 2022.
He said that with the new development, the new concessionaires and the host state government would drive the project.
The Governor of Plateau State, Mr Caleb Murtfwang, described the launching of the Inland Dry Port as a milestone, considering the economic potential of the state.
Adding his input, the Plateau State Commissioner for Commerce, Mr Musa Sule, described the Nigerian Shippers’ Council as a key partner in the development of the port project.
On his part, the Coordinator of the North Central Zone of the council, Alhaji Ahmed Umar, said that the launching of the operational manual was to adequately guide stakeholders and operators on how best to use inland dry ports.
He equally quoted the President of Plateau State Shippers Association, Hajia Aisa Bashir, as giving the assurance of the association’s readiness to enlighten shippers on the operational manual.
Modupe Gbadeyanka