CIECOBON partners NSC to promote export

By Abiodun OBA

The Chartered Institute of Export and Commodity Brokers of Nigeria (CIECOBON) has approached the Nigerian Shipper’s Council for support in its effort towards promoting export in the maritime industry.

CIECOBON President and Council Chairman, Dr. Ayobami Omotoso made the call when he led the Institute management on a courtesy call on the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer and Management of NSC, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Jime, a courtesy visit at the NSC headquarters in Lagos.

In a statement by NSC Head, Public Relations Unit, Rakiya Dhikru-Yagboyaju, Omotoso also called on NSC to appeal to the Federal Government to establish an Export-specific Port to further encourage exports.

The CIECOBON President said lack of flat-bottomed vessels to transport cargo to Apapa rendered the use of Ikorodu Lighter Terminal once designated for export, a dead-on arrival decision.

He disclosed that one of the shipping lines operating in the sub-region has been providing open roof-top vessels for Ghanaian exporters of produce and pleaded with NSC to explore the possibility of extending such a service to Nigerian exporters because the RIFA containers that should ordinarily be used are too expensive for many exporters.

In his response, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, Hon Emmanuel Jime warmly welcomed the delegation and assured them that part of NSC’s mandate, being in alliance with that of CIECOBON, will result in a partnership that will benefit the nation’s economy.

Jime commended the doggedness of CIECOBON in promoting export through advocacy and capacity building and enjoined the body to keep forging ahead in its mission with patriotic zeal.

The NSC Boss also assured Dr. Omotoso that NSC will discuss the request for open rooftop vessels.

CIECOBON came into being following the approval of the merger of the Institute of Export of Nigeria (IEON) and Commodity Brokers Association of Nigeria (CBAN) by the National Assembly in 2015.