Executive Secretary/CEO, Nigerian shippers’ Council, Dr. Pius Akutah (4th from right), President, Abuja Shippers’ Association, Mr. John Ugwu (5th from right) and Director, Research and Planning of the Council, Mr. Rotimi Anifowose (2nd from right) and other officials from both organisations during the visit in Abuja.

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council NSC, is currently closing ranks with the Abuja Shippers’ Association (importers and exporters) with a view to addressing challenges that inhibit free flow of commerce across the country’s supply chain.

It was in the light of this that the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Council, Dr. Pius Akutah Ukeyima, Esq, MON, met with leaders of the Abuja Shippers’ Association at the Council’s Abuja Liaison Office.

The visit, which took place on January 28, 2026, was an introductory meeting where the Association’s President, Mr. John Ugwu, outlined challenges facing shippers, including heavy reliance on seaports and poor road infrastructure.

From right: CEO, NSC, Dr. Pius Akutah and the president of the Abuja Shippers’ Association, Mr. John Ugwu.

Ugwu advocated for a functional rail network and the operationalisation of the Baro Inland Port, citing high logistics costs and difficulties accessing affordable loans.

In his response, Dr. Pius Akutah said that the Council is working with the Nigerian Railway Corporation to improve rail transport.

He explained that the Baro port requires dredging, a capital-intensive project, and noted that the Council can discuss loan issues with the Bank of Industry.

Dr. Pauline Osasona, Deputy Director of the Abuja Liaison Office, highlighted benefits of joining a Shippers’ Association, including advocacy, trade facilitation, and networking opportunities.