In a bid to alleviate congestion at Lagos seaports and enhance trade efficiency, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has forged a strategic partnership with the European Union (EU). The collaboration comes as part of the EU’s broader efforts to bolster transportation infrastructure and trade connectivity across West Africa, particularly along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor.
The partnership was formalized during a visit to the NSC headquarters by an EU delegation led by Celine Lhoste. Lhoste emphasized the EU’s commitment to improving transportation within Nigeria and neighboring countries, highlighting the €411 million ‘Omi Eko’ project aimed at easing transport congestion in Lagos and reducing costs and delays for residents.
“The ‘Omi Eko’ project, supported by the EU, Agence Française de Développement (AFD), and the European Investment Bank, aims to significantly enhance transport infrastructure in Lagos. This initiative underscores our dedication to supporting Nigeria’s development goals and improving regional trade dynamics,” remarked Lhoste.
The Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Barr. Pius Akutah, MON represented by NSC’s Director of Human Resource, Mrs. Ada Okam, welcomed the EU’s initiative, citing it as a pivotal opportunity for collaboration in port decongestion and transportation management. Akutah highlighted NSC’s role in regulating port tariffs, reducing cargo abandonment, and streamlining port operations through automation and enforcement of standards.
“The NSC is pivotal in fostering efficient port operations and resolving cargo-related challenges. Our collaboration with the EU will focus on developing critical infrastructure such as Inland Dry Ports (IDPs) and enhancing transportation along key corridors like Lagos-Abidjan,” Okam affirmed.
Mr. Jesus Gavilan from the EU Directorate General International Partnerships emphasized the EU’s commitment to investing in both hard and soft infrastructure across Africa, particularly in transportation networks. He underscored the importance of partnerships to boost trade and connectivity, urging for continued collaboration in areas including waterways transportation and railway development.
The partnership between NSC and the EU marks a significant step towards enhancing Nigeria’s maritime sector’s efficiency and supporting broader economic growth objectives. With plans underway for the ‘Omi Eko’ project and ongoing discussions on strategic infrastructure development, stakeholders anticipate tangible improvements in port operations and regional trade dynamics in the near future.
