By Muhammad Babayo Asha
Efforts are being intensified for the establishment of Dry Inland Ports IDPS in three states of the North East Geo political zone for regional integration and trades promotion.
This is part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmad Tinibu to explore, protect, and unlock the potentials of the marine heritage and the vast opportunities in the region.
The Executive Secretary, Shippers’ Council of Nigeria Dr Akutah Pius Ukeyima who gave the indication during interactive session with critical stakeholders from the sector in Bauchi said the initiative would enhance economic growth and sustainable development.
Dr Akutah Pius Ukeyima noted that the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Mr Adegboyega Oyetola is committed to ensure that Nigeria’s marine resources are harnessed responsibly to enrich the lives of citizens.
He explained that Bauchi, Borno and Gombe state governments have indicated strong commitment towards the establishment of the IDPS in the respective states to preserving the natural beauty of the coastal ecosystems.
The Executive Secretary enjoined the stakeholders in the shipping industry in the zone to navigate through to gain knowledge, initiatives and collaborations towards safeguarding the marine environment and nurture the blue economy.
According to Dr Akutah Pius Ukeyima the IDPS when established would balance the trade deficit, develop trading and integration as well as chart a course towards a prosperous future for all shippers in the region.
He commended the stakeholders for the large turnout to contribute, identify their operational challenges with the aim to proffer solutions to enable them become successful shippers.
In a welcome address, the North East acting Zonal Director of the Council, Mr Nanbol Nanle who commended governors from the zone for their support to the Council noted that they are committed to develop the national critical infrastructure.
In their goodwill messages, the Bauchi State Commissioner Ministry of Commerce, Muhammad Salisu Gamawa and his Works and Transport Counterpart, Professor Titus Luka said Governor Bala Muhammad is committed to initiate one local government one product discovery.
They said the state is to host international investment summit to guide and explore opportunities for shippers and other critical stakeholders to invest in the state.
Highlight of the session featured Tiv cultural troupe and goodwill messages from President Shippers’ Associations of Bauchi, Gombe, Adamawa, Taraba and Yobe State amongst others.
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