MaritimeNews

NASS, Shippers’ Council Target 20% Maritime Contribution To GDP

  • Legislators mull conversion of NSC to Nigerian Shipping Commission

Worried by the maritime industry’s low contributions to national Gross Domestic Product (GDP), the National Assembly has pledged partnership with Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to drive upto 20 percent maritime sector contribution to GDP.

The Chairman, House Committee on Shipping Services, Hon. Abdussamad Dasuki gave this remark on Thursday at the NSC Performance Special Retreat themed: “Strengthening Economic Regulation of the Marine and Blue Economy.”

According to Dansuki, maritime sector is expected to deliver nothing less than 20 per cent to the nation’s GDP but it is currently contributing 1 percent or less.

The House Committee Chairman assured that the legislators would prioritize everything needed to change the narrative, opining that there is a need to strengthen NSC by transforming it into a Nigerian Shipping Commission.

“As the chairman of the Committee overseeing Nigeria Shippers’ Council, I can assure that we are going to be partners in progress as you do all that is expected from you as the regulator of this important sector. On that note, I’ll highlight to you that even before the new Executive Secretary resumed office, I championed having an important law to back the regulatory agency.”

“We are going to fast track that law and make sure you have legal backing to do what is expected of you. We will ensure that whatever is required to implement your obligations is provided in the shortest possible time. Part of what we are to discuss is to how to strengthen economic regulation of Marine and Blue Economy. We should have a Nigerian Shipping Commission Council,” the lawmaker said.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary/CEO of NSC, Mr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima posited that the 2-day Special Management Retreat plays a crucial role in steering the Council towards achieving its objectives and contributing significantly to the advancement of sustainable development within the maritime sector.

Ukeyima, however, observed that the Council has long been at the forefront of catalysing innovation, championing progress, and navigating the dynamic waters of global trade.

“As we gather here today, we are embarking on a collective endeavour that holds profound significance for the future of our nation’s economic landscape.”

“Today’s retreat marks not just a gathering of minds but a strategic convergence of wisdom, expertise, and foresight. It’s a testament to our unwavering commitment to shaping a future where the Marine and Blue economy sector becomes a beacon of sustainable development and prosperity,” he said.

According to the NSC boss, the focus of the Council on economic regulation underscores a profound understanding that effective governance, equitable practices, and strategic policies serve as the bedrock for fostering a thriving blue economy.

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