NSC strengthens partnership with Maritime Police, Navy to boost port security

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has strengthened its partnership with the Maritime Police and Nigerian Navy to enhance efficiency and security in the country’s maritime sector.

The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, Dr Pius Akutah, during high-level meetings with key maritime security agencies in Lagos, urged the police to collaborate closely with the NSC Enforcement Unit in tackling irregularities at the ports. He identified pressing concerns such as attacks on ships, criminal activities on port access roads and illegal container interceptions along port corridors.

Akutah also vowed to expose unauthorised container seizures through media reports and called on Assistant Inspector General (AIG), Garba Yusuf, to take decisive action against those involved.

Akutah also hosted a delegation from the Western Naval Command emphasising on ensuring safer and more efficient shipping activities in the country.

“We must work together to eliminate these illegal activities that undermine the efficiency and security of our maritime sector,” Akutah stated. In response, Yusuf assured the NSC of the Maritime Police’s commitment to cooperation.

He encouraged the Council to report any cases involving officers engaged in illegal activities, stressing that effective policing requires strong stakeholder collaboration.

On his part, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Michael Oamen, reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s readiness to engage with maritime stakeholders and provide swift responses when needed.

The Director of Strategic Planning and Research at NSC, Mr. Rotimi Anifowose, highlighted the Council’s ongoing transformation into the Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA).He noted that the NSC would continue to depend on the Navy’s expertise to achieve its regulatory and security goals.