The Executive SecretaryCEO of Nigerian Shippers’ Council NSC, Dr. Pius Akutah, MON, has said that the ongoing reforms championed by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, H.E, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, have played crucial roles in repositioning Nigeria’s marine and blue economy sector as a major destination for investment while driving national economic growth through increased foreign investment.

According to a statement by the Head, Public Relations Department of the Council, Rebecca Adamu, the NSC- Boss made the disclosure when he hosted members of the League of Maritime Editors LOMÉ, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Council’s headquarters in Apapa, Lagos.

Akutah stated that the Minister’s reform agenda is focused on transforming the maritime sector into a globally competitive industry capable of attracting investment, creating jobs, and contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economic development.

“The reforms being championed by the Minister are already yielding significant results, with major international investors demonstrating renewed confidence in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

“The Minister reforms have attracted foreign direct investment (FDIs), which is a key priority, in line with the Federal Government’s broader economic reform agenda of deepening trade relations across strategic sectors and stimulating sustainable economic growth”, the statement said.

He cited the recent investment announcement by APM Terminals as evidence of the growing investor confidence in the sector.

“We can see what APM Terminals is doing in terms of the investment profile they are bringing. The Managing Director has already announced a $100 million investment portfolio coming into the country. These are clear indicators that the reforms are working, alongside several other ongoing port reform initiatives” he added.

The NSC boss also reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to maintaining an open-door policy and strengthening collaboration with the maritime media as part of efforts to advance reforms in Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.

Akutah said that the Council would continue to engage openly with the media, describing journalists as indispensable partners in promoting transparency, public enlightenment, and the successful implementation of government policies in the maritime sector.

He noted that the media plays a vital role in communicating the Council’s regulatory activities and the Federal Government’s reform initiatives, thereby fostering stakeholder confidence and supporting efforts to attract foreign direct investment into the marine and blue economy.

“We value the media because it provides the platform for Nigerians and the global community to understand what we are doing. We can not achieve that alone. Our doors will remain open as we continue to build a stronger partnership with the media,” he said.

The Executive Secretary commended the League of Maritime Editors for its professionalism, consistency, and contributions to maritime journalism, assuring the association of the Council’s continued support and cooperation.

He reiterated the Council’s commitment to implementing the Federal Government’s policies aimed at improving port efficiency, enhancing competitiveness, and creating a more business-friendly environment for port users and investors.

Earlier, the President of the League of Maritime Editors, Mrs. Remi Itie, said the visit was to strengthen the longstanding relationship between the association and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, as well as to invite the Executive Secretary to the League’s forthcoming Annual General Meeting AGM.

She pledged the association’s continued commitment to objective and professional reporting that supports the growth and development of Nigeria’s maritime industry.