The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has emphasised the strategic importance of revitalising the Isiala Ngwa Inland Dry Port (IDP) project in Abia State and positioning it as a major trade hub in the South-East region.

Originally gazetted in 2006, the long-dormant project is being re-energised through the intervention of the NSC, which is spearheading its revitalisation as part of a broader push to enhance inland connectivity and decentralise maritime operations.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of NSC, Dr Pius Akutah, appreciated the governor’s support and emphasised the importance of the dry port in decentralising maritime operations and extending logistics infrastructure to Nigeria’s inland commercial corridors. He said the state’s dry port is poised to become a major economic driver for the state and the South-East region.

Akutah noted that with active collaboration between the state government and the concessioners, the IDP project has the potential to unlock substantial economic benefits for Abia and beyond, transform the region and position it as a major trade hub in the South-East region.

On his part, the Governor of Abia State emphasised his desire for the inland dry port operations to commence in the state. He emphasised the crucial need for a reliable rail system that can efficiently transport goods from the seaport to the Inland port, thereby reducing costs and enhancing competitiveness.

Otti appreciated the Council for its dedication to providing the necessary technical and regulatory support to ensure the dry port becomes a major asset for economic transformation.