Pulse.ng : Nigerian Shippers' Council Holds Stakeholders' Meeting to Address Challenges, Enhance Collaboration in Kaduna

By Sani Idris Abdulrahman

The Nigerian Shippers' Council (NSC), Kaduna Port Office, has held a stakeholders' meeting on Thursday in Kaduna to discuss progress, address challenges, and enhance collaboration in the shipping industry.

In his address, Danjuma Buba, Deputy Director, NSC, Kaduna Port Office, explained that the meeting was aimed at bringing together industry players to share ideas and find solutions to rising operational costs and other challenges affecting the sector.

He expressed gratitude to stakeholders, particularly freight forwarders, for their appreciation of the council's efforts.

Salami Oluwatoyin, the Manager, Kaduna Inland Dry Port, gave more insights into the council's activities.

Oluwatoyin highlighted the progress made in the terminal, particularly with the new customs refund system.

He expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their support, noting that it has been instrumental in the council's success.

However, Oluwatoyin noted that despite the progress, some challenges persist.

"One of the issues is the challenge being faced with officials of the Kaduna State Traffic Law Enforcement Authority (KASTLEA) and police roadblocks," he said.

He explained that while the council had previously resolved the KASTLEA issue, it has started to resurface, with some officials stopping trucks and demanding payments.

Oluwatoyin also highlighted the issue of police roadblocks, where trucks are being stopped and drivers are being asked to pay bribes.

According to Oluwatoyin, the council is working to address the challenge and stakeholders' support is crucial in resolving the issue.

He assured that the situation is being monitored and efforts are being made to address the issue.

The meeting provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss concerns and find solutions to ensure seamless operations in the state.

Oluwatoyin emphasised the importance of collaboration and cooperation between stakeholders to ensure the success of the council's activities and to improve the business environment for its members.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that stakeholders at the meeting were representatives of; the Nigerian Customs Service, Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), Council For The Regulation Of Freight Forwarding In Nigeria (CRFFN), Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), among others.