NSC to Establish Dry Inland Ports in Three Northeastern States
By Abubakar Hardawa
Plans are underway to establish Inland Dry Ports (IDPs) in three states in Nigeria’s Northeast geopolitical zone to boost regional integration and trade.
The initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda”, which seeks to harness, protect, and maximize the potentials of Nigeria’s marine resources and economic opportunities in the region.
Dr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), disclosed this during a stakeholder engagement in Bauchi, emphasizing that the project will drive economic growth and sustainable development.
He stated that the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, is dedicated to responsibly utilizing Nigeria’s marine resources to improve citizens’ livelihoods.
Dr. Ukeyima noted that the governments of Bauchi, Borno, and Gombe States have demonstrated strong commitment to hosting the IDPs, ensuring the preservation of coastal ecosystems while boosting trade.
He urged shipping industry stakeholders in the region to leverage knowledge, partnerships, and innovative strategies to protect marine environments and advance the blue economy.
According to him, the IDPs will help bridge trade deficits, enhance commerce and integration, and create a prosperous future for shippers in the Northeast.
The NSC boss also commended stakeholders for their active participation in identifying operational challenges and seeking solutions to strengthen the shipping sector.
In his welcome address, the NSC’s Acting Zonal Director for the Northeast, Mr. Nanbol Nanle, praised the region’s governors for their support and reaffirmed the Council’s dedication to developing critical national infrastructure.
Goodwill messages were delivered by Bauchi State’s Commissioner for Commerce, Muhammad Salisu Gamawa, and the Commissioner for Works and Transport, Prof. Titus Luka, who highlighted Governor Bala Mohammed’s commitment to the “One Local Government, One Product “initiative.
They also announced plans for an international investment summit to showcase opportunities for shippers and investors in the state.
The event featured cultural performances by a Tiv dance troupe and goodwill remarks from leaders of shippers’ associations in Bauchi, Gombe, Adamawa, Taraba, and Yobe States.
