By Kenneth Jukpor
Realizing that the maintenance of the channels leading to proposed deep seaports may become an impediment to the efficiency of such ports, the Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Ms. Hadiza Bala-Usman has reiterated the determination of the Authority to support the completion of all deep seaports projects across the country by ensuring efficient channel management.
According to the Managing Director, the early completion of the project would not only facilitate operational efficiency in the nation’s maritime sector, but further strengthen the Federal Government’s policy of the Ease of Doing Business.
This was disclosed in a press release signed by an Asst. General Manager, Corporate & Strategic Communications, Mr. Isa Suwaid and disseminated yesterday.
Hadiza Bala-Usman who was speaking in Lagos on Monday, when management of the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission [ICRC] led by its Acting Director General, Engineer Chidi Izuwah paid a working visit to the NPA headquarters.
While considering the inherent potentials of deep seaports to the future maritime activities in the country, she restated the need to fast track the nation’s navigational channels, so as to accommodate bigger vessels which would generate more revenue for the nation and improve trade facilitation in the sub region.
Hadiza further stated that plans were almost being concluded for the business model meant for the Lilypond Terminal, as part of management’s resolve for improved service delivery in the terminals and charged all concerned with the working document for the review of the terminal’s agreement to speed up the processes that would allow for the swift consideration and possible approval for the five years renewal being sought by Lilypond.
Earlier in his opening remarks the visiting ICRC Director General applauded the numerous positive changes the maritime sub sector witnessed since Hadiza received the mantle of leadership as the Managing Director of NPA.
He commended progress made in the area of improved synergy with relevant stakeholders, providing a level playing ground for all, efficient service delivery for port users, improved Port operations amongst others.
The Director General lauded the reforms in the Port Industry which dates back to 2006 and stated that the ICRC Management was willing to support that the drive towards ensuring the growth witnessed this far is guarded to the latter in view of the economic benefits to the nation at large.
Engr. Izuwah informed his host that ICRC which acts as the “eyes and ears” of the Federal Government was in Lagos to have a first-hand assessment of the development at Lilypond Terminal and Josep Dam amongst other MDA Projects by the Federal Government.
He stressed that the government was keen on identifying the various encumbrances being faced by MDA’s towards speedy job completions as well as providing suggestions through effective synergy with those concerned.
