Nigerian Shippers Council || N.S.C

  • 4, Otunba Ayodele Soyode Lane, Apapa.

NSC Management v2

Management Team

Meet the leaders steering Nigeria’s port regulation and trade facilitation.

About team

Committed to Service, Driven by Impact

Our team at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council is dedicated to upholding transparency, efficiency, and accountability in port regulation. Through collaborative leadership and a deep commitment to public service, we work tirelessly to enhance trade facilitation and protect stakeholder interests across Nigeria’s transport ecosystem.

Meet the Team
47+
Years of Public Service
Meet our team

Every win is a team effort.

AKUTAH PIUS UKEYIMA, Esq., MON, FCILT, FInstTA, Ph.D

Executive Secretary / Chief Executive Officer

Okolue, Ify

Director, Consumer Affairs Department

Olurotimi, Babatunde Anifowose

Director, Strategic Planning and Research

Zubairu, Magaji M.

Director, Human Resources Management

Ogbonnah, Margaret

Director, Regulatory Services

Garta, Ahmadu Y.

Director, Inland Transport Service

Olaniyi, Stephen

Director, Finance and Account

Orume, Daniel J.

Acting Director, General Services

Abere, Moses

Acting Director, Special Duties

Saleh Bala A

Director, Legal Services

Akujobi Celestine C.

Director, Consumer Affairs

King, Chibuzor Lilian N.

Director, (South East Zonal coordinating Office)

Yazah, Ahmed Umar

Director, (North West Zonal coordinating Office)

Kosoko, Justina Abhohien

Ag.Director, (South West Zonal coordinating Office)

Nanle, Nanbol Emmanuel

Ag.Director, (North East Zonal coordinating Office)

Okoliko, Oyadanu Jeremiah

Deputy Director, (North Central Zonal coordinating Office)

Bestu Philemon Yusuf

Ag.Director, (Abuja Liason Officer)

Garnvwa,Paul M.

Head, Public Private Partnership

Ifeoma Furo RICKETTS, MSC, PGD, MBBS

Head, Medical

Zubairu, Mohammed

Head, Internal Audit

Benjamin, Ivwighreghweta

Head, ICT

Esther, Nanle

Head, SERVICOM

Bosede, Thompson

Head, Freedom of Information

Mohammed, Ladi A.

Head, Procurement

Mohammed, Ambi B.

Head, Complaints

Adamu, Rebecca

Head, Public Relations

Gwandu, Bello H.

Special Assistant to the Executive Secretary / CEO

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Mustapha Magaji Zubairu (FICA, MCIOTA)

Director, Inland Transport Services – NSC

Mustapha Magaji Zubairu is a seasoned public administrator with over three decades of progressive experience at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. Currently serving as Director of Public-Private Partnership, he has led major strategic initiatives fostering collaboration between government and private stakeholders in the maritime sector. Mustapha holds a Master’s in International Affairs and Diplomacy and a BA in History from Ahmadu Bello University, as well as a PGD in Transport & Logistics from the Nigerian Institute of Transport Technology. He also completed a Diploma in Port Management from Galilee Management Institute, Israel, and advanced PPP training at Lagos Business School. His career has spanned roles from Admin Officer to Director, with a strong focus on operations, administration, and stakeholder engagement. A Fellow of the Institute of Corporate Administration (FICA) and a Member of the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration (MCIOTA), he is known for his leadership, policy insight, and commitment to institutional development in Nigeria’s port and transport ecosystem.

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Margaret Ogbonnah (FCILT)

Director, Regulatory Services – NSC

Margaret Ogbonnah is a highly experienced maritime and logistics professional with over 30 years of expertise in port administration, shipping policy, and logistics regulation. She currently serves as Director of Regulatory Services at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, where she leads regulatory oversight of port and logistics service providers. Margaret holds a Master’s in Port Management from the World Maritime University, Sweden, a Postgraduate Diploma in Logistics and Supply Chain Management from Obafemi Awolowo University, and a Bachelor’s in Geography from the University of Jos. A Chartered Fellow and former Vice President (West Africa) of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT), she is also an active member of WILAT and IMMTA, and a certified international trade logistics specialist. Margaret has led national reform efforts, including the Shippers’ Insurance Technical Committee and World Bank-supported benchmarking projects. She is renowned for her leadership in regulatory strategy, capacity building, and mentoring, and has participated in advanced executive programs at institutions such as the London School of Economics and Harvard University.

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Ahmadu Yahaya Garta

Director, Human Resource – NSC

Ahmadu Yahaya Garta is a seasoned public administrator with over 30 years of service, currently serving as Director of Human Resource at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. He holds a B.Sc. in Political Science and Administration from the University of Maiduguri and completed his National Youth Service in Calabar, Cross River State in 1989. Mr. Garta began his career at the Council in 1994 as an Administrative Officer and rose steadily through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional commitment to staff development, organizational management, and administrative reform. His leadership in human resource strategy continues to enhance internal capacity and staff welfare within the Council. He is married with children and enjoys listening to music and traveling.

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Stephen Olaniyi (ANAN)

Director, Finance and Accounts – NSC

Stephen Olaniyi is a seasoned financial expert with over 20 years of experience spanning Nigeria’s banking sector and the civil service. He currently serves as Director of Finance and Accounts at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, where he oversees financial planning, analysis, accounting operations, and strategic reporting. Stephen holds a Higher National Diploma in Accountancy, a Master’s in Corporate Governance from Leeds Beckett University, and a Master’s in Managerial Psychology from the University of Ibadan. A certified member of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), he is widely respected for his integrity, precision, and leadership in public financial management. His commitment to mentorship and institutional excellence continues to shape the Council’s fiscal discipline and professional development culture.

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Daniel John Orume (FNIM, FCILT, FIMC)

Ag. Director, General Services – NSC

Daniel John Orume is a highly experienced administrator with over 27 years of service at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. He currently serves as Acting Director of the General Services Department, overseeing administrative operations and stakeholder support functions. Daniel holds an MSc in International Transport from Cardiff University, an MBA from Ahmadu Bello University, and a BSc in Marketing from the University of Maiduguri. A Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management (FNIM), the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (FCILT), and the Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC), he also holds membership with the Commodity Broker Association of Nigeria. His extensive career spans roles in operations, executive support, complaints resolution, and stakeholder engagement, making him a versatile leader committed to organizational efficiency and service excellence.

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Moses Abere (MCIOTA, FILHR)

Ag. Director, Special Duties – NSC

Moses Abere is a dedicated public sector professional currently serving as Acting Director of Special Duties at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. A graduate of B.A. (Hons) with professional certifications including Membership of the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration (MCIOTA) and Fellowship of the Institute of Leadership and Human Resources (FILHR), Moses brings a wealth of administrative expertise to his role. Known for his commitment to operational excellence and interdepartmental coordination, he plays a strategic role in advancing special initiatives and supporting the Council’s overarching mandate.

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Bala Alhaji Saleh

Director, Legal Services – NSC

Bala Alhaji Saleh is a distinguished legal practitioner with over 30 years of experience in legal advisory, regulatory affairs, and public administration. He currently serves as Director of Legal Services at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, where he plays a key role in advancing legal reforms that promote efficiency, transparency, and regulatory compliance in Nigeria’s port and maritime sector. Bala holds an LL.M from the University of Lagos, an LL.B from the University of Jos, and is a Barrister at Law (BL) from the Nigerian Law School. His expertise covers maritime law, port concession agreements, contract negotiation, and dispute resolution. Prior to joining the Council in 2001, he was Principal Partner at Bala, Mohammed & Associates. Bala has represented Nigeria in various international maritime legal forums and is recognized for his leadership in shaping legal frameworks that strengthen the country’s shipping and logistics industry.

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Celestine Chukwuemeka Akujobi (FNIS, FCAI, FCIOTA, MCILT, MIDRI, SMP-UK)

Director, Consumer Affairs – NSC

Celestine Chukwuemeka Akujobi is a maritime industry veteran with over 34 years of professional experience at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. Currently serving as Director of Consumer Affairs, he leads the Council’s efforts in protecting and promoting the interests of shippers and consumers in Nigeria’s maritime sector. Celestine holds a BSc in Geography & Regional Planning from the University of Calabar and a Master’s in Transport Planning and Management from the University of Lagos. His career has spanned multiple operational and leadership roles across various ports, area, and zonal offices nationwide. He has also represented the Council in international conferences and served as secretary or desk officer on several national committees, including the NSC/CNUT MoU, ICTN Implementation Committee, and Nigerian Fleet Implementation Committee. A Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Shipping (FNIS), Chartered Institute of Administration (FCAI), and Chartered Institute of Transport Administration (FCIOTA), he is also a Chartered Member of CILT, a member of MIDRI, and a Senior Member of IPMA, UK. Celestine is widely respected for his strategic leadership and stakeholder engagement in advancing Nigeria’s shipping and transport sector.

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Esther Nanle (FILHR, MCIOTA)

Deputy Director, SERVICOM – NSC

Esther Nanle is a dedicated service excellence advocate currently serving as Deputy Director of Administration (SERVICOM) at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. She holds a BA (Hons) in English Language and is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Leadership and Human Resources (FILHR) as well as a Member of the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (MCIOTA). Esther leads the Council’s service delivery initiatives, ensuring the development, monitoring, and evaluation of departmental charters and promoting best practices across the organization. She also coordinates SERVICOM sensitization programs, customer service training, and stakeholder engagement to enhance the Council’s service quality and operational performance.

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Amina Mohammed

Assistant Director, Procurement – NSC

Amina Mohammed is a seasoned public sector professional with over 25 years of experience in administration, finance, and procurement at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. She currently serves as Assistant Director, heading the Procurement Unit, where she ensures transparency, accountability, and compliance with the Public Procurement Act. Amina holds an MA in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Jos and a BSc in International Studies from Ahmadu Bello University. She is highly skilled in public procurement practices, contract management, stakeholder engagement, and financial administration. With a proven track record in leading procurement processes and managing vendor relationships, she continues to contribute to good governance and efficient service delivery within the Council.

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Paul Mwajim Garnvwa

Deputy Director, Operations – NSC

Paul Mwajim Garnvwa is a maritime operations specialist with over 25 years of professional experience at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. Currently serving as Deputy Director of Operations, he brings deep expertise in port management, dry port operations, and regulatory oversight. Paul holds an MSc in International Transport from the University of Cardiff, Wales, and a BSc in Geography from the University of Maiduguri. His extensive career has included progressive roles from Planning Officer to Deputy Director, with specialized training in cargo tracking, port economic regulation, vessel operations, and dry port logistics, including international training at Bandari College, Kenya. He has also contributed to global discourse through his co-authored UNESCAP publication on dry ports. Fluent in English and Hausa, Paul is known for his commitment to innovation, strategic planning, and service delivery in Nigeria’s maritime and port logistics ecosyst.

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Zubairu Mohammed (FCA)

Head, Internal Audit – NSC

With over 25 years of financial management and audit experience at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Zubairu Mohammed currently leads the Internal Audit Unit, driving accountability and financial integrity. He holds an MBA and BSc in Accountancy, is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (FCA), and has attended advanced international and local trainings on IPSAS, IFRS, financial management, and public sector auditing, positioning him as a key figure in strengthening the Council’s internal control systems.

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Benjamin Ivwighreghweta

Deputy Director, ICT – NSC

Benjamin Ivwighreghweta is a technology leader with expertise in cloud computing, networking, and IT systems management, currently serving as Deputy Director of ICT at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. He holds a Master’s in Information Technology from the University of Lagos, a PGD in Computer Science and Engineering, and a BSc in Biochemistry. Benjamin is a member of the Computer Professionals Registration Council of Nigeria (MCPN) and the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration (CIOTA), bringing over two decades of technical proficiency and leadership to support the Council’s digital transformation.

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Bosede Thompson

Assistant Director, Freedom of Information Unit – NSC

With over 30 years of administrative experience, Bosede leads the Freedom of Information Unit at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, championing transparency, media freedom, and public access to information. She holds a Master’s degree in Communication & Language Arts from the University of Ibadan, a PGD in Transport & Logistics, and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Entrepreneurship & Innovation. A Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport (CILT), she is also a senior member of the Institute of Customer Service Nigeria and a member of PMI. Her core strengths include stakeholder engagement, change management, project coordination, and multilingual communication.

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Dr. Bashir Alhassan Ambi-Mohammed (FCILT, fnipr)

Head, Complaints Unit – NSC

Dr. Bashir Alhassan Ambi-Mohammed is a seasoned public relations and transport professional with over 20 years at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. He currently heads the Complaints Unit, where he manages stakeholder issues and ensures service accountability. He holds degrees in Mass Communication and International Transport, including a PhD from Lead City University.

Dr. Bashir has served in various key roles, including Public Relations Officer, Personal Assistant to the NSC Board Chairman, and Operations Officer. A Fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (FCILT) and the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (fnipr), he has received multiple awards for excellence and integrity. He is also active in national and international committees and has contributed to several training and reform initiatives in the transport sector.

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Adamu Rebecca Bantai (MNIPR, MCIOTA, FILHR)

Assistant Director, Public Relations – NSC

Rebecca Adamu Bantai is an experienced public relations practitioner with over 25 years of service in the Nigerian civil service. She currently serves as Assistant Director of the Public Relations Unit at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, where she leads media relations, strategic communication, and stakeholder engagement efforts. Rebecca holds a BA (Hons) in Mass Communication from the University of Maiduguri and a Diploma in Contemporary Public Administration from the Galilee International Management Institute, Israel. She is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (MNIPR), the Institute of Transport Administration (MCIOTA), and a Fellow of the Institute of Leadership and Human Resources Management (FILHR). Her professional strengths include communication strategy, media relations, problem-solving, and team building. She has participated in numerous specialized trainings on leadership, FOI compliance, corporate media synergy, and global best practices in transport regulation, solidifying her role as a key contributor to the Council’s corporate communication success.

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Bello Haliru Gwandu LL.B, BL

Assistant Director & Special Assistant to the Executive Secretary/CEO

Bello Haliru Gwandu is an Assistant Director and a seasoned legal professional with over two decades of experience spanning judicial service and regulatory law in Nigeria’s transport sector. He currently serve as Special Assistant to the Executive Secretary/CEO, providing strategic legal, governance, and policy advisory support to the Council’s leadership. He was formerly, Head, Board Secretariat, Drafting & Documentation Division in the Legal Services Department of the Council, where he oversaw board services, legal drafting, and institutional documentation.

Before joining the NSC, Bello had a distinguished career with the Kebbi State Judiciary-High Court of Justice, rising from Assistant Registrar to Senior Magistrate/Principal District Judge between August 2001 and January 2013. His transition to the maritime and transport sector marked a pivotal contribution to reforms, where he played a key role in the review and drafting of landmark legislation including the Railway Authority Bill, Ports & Harbours Authority Bill, Inland Waterways Authority Bill, and the National Transport Commission Bill.

Since 2013, he has been actively involved in organising the International Maritime Seminar for Judges series, a flagship forum that brings together jurists, policymakers, and industry leaders to deepen maritime jurisprudence in Nigeria and the West and Central African sub-region.

Bello also represents the Council on several ministerial committees and project teams, including those on the unbundling of the railway sector, International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) implementation, resolution of jurisdictional disputes between NPA and NIWA, and the domestication of the Rotterdam Rules among others. His work in these roles has advanced Nigeria’s transport reforms, trade facilitation agenda, and maritime law development.

He holds an LL.B in Common and Islamic Law from Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2006. He is a member of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Nigerian Maritime Law Association (NMLA), the Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN), and the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators, among other professional bodies.

Outside of his professional life, Bello enjoys reading, legal drafting, travelling and driving. He is married and blessed with three boys.

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