Umar vows to promote Nigeria’s shipping industry
PRESIDENTof the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping ( NCS), Aminu Umar, has vowed to advance the interest of the nation’s shipping industry by working tirelessly to promote a vibrant and competitive maritime sector capable of contributing to the national economy.
He gave the assurance during his investiture as the seventh president of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping held in Lagos. He also vowed to make collaboration his mantra, while calling on all stakeholders within and outside the shipping industry to join forces with him and his team.
He said through advocacy, policy reforms and collaborations, they will create an environment that attracts investment, fosters innovation and stimulates sustainable growth.
Speaking earlier, outgoing president of the chamber, Andy Isichei, expressed confidence in the ability of Umar to lead the NCS to even greater heights.
Isichei highlighted some achievements of his administration to include membership of International Chamber of Shipping ( ICS), as NCS became a full member in 2021, making Nigeria the first African country operating within the continent to achieve that feat.
He said the membership at ICS opens new vistas for Nigeria and provides the opportunity to complement
NIMASA’S efforts in securing training opportunities and engagement of the nation’s teeming seafarers on international ocean- going vessels.
Isichei said ICS members who own most of the very large crude carrier ( VLCC), container vessels, and others that engage in international trade will now form a huge market for Nigerian seafarers.
According to him, the implication of this is that Nigeria will have more opportunities to actualise the capacity development of its seafarers with a direct impact on the foreign exchange reserves.
“Through our participation in various committees and working groups, we have actively represented and put the interests of the Nigerian shipping industry on the international stage. Our engagement with the ICS also provides us with invaluable opportunities to connect with global industry leaders, share best practices, and contribute to shaping international maritime policies,” he said.
Also speaking, Senior Advocate of Nigeria ( SAN), Olisa Agbakoba, expressed confidence in Umar’s ability to be one of the most successful presidents produced by the chamber and called for more private- sector participation in the maritime industry as it has a strong role to play in boosting the sector for economic growth.