Nasarawa to partner NSC on Inland Dry Port Project

By Abiodun OBA

Nasarawa State Government has expressed willingness to establish the Inland Dry Port (IDP) for the benefit of shippers in the state.

Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Assistant Director, Public Relations, Rebecca Adamu in a statement disclosed that Barr. Pius Akutah, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of NSC, disclosed after a closed-door meeting with the Executive Governor of Nasarawa State, His Excellency, Engr. Abdullahi Sule.

Akutah who briefed newsmen after the meeting on Saturday hinted that the Governor has already issued directives on how the project can be actualized partnering with the NSC to berth the Dry Port.

The NSC Chief Executive Officer further disclosed that the State Governor has directed the Attorney General of Nasarawa State to meet with the management of the Nasarawa Investment Agency to actualize the aspiration.

According to him, Nasarawa State produces a large volume of sesame seed which necessitates the establishment of the Inland Dry Port in the State.

The NSC boss said that the State Government is planning to visit the Nigerian Shippers’ Council as part of the efforts to fast-track the development of the Inland Dry Port project in the State.

He also stressed that Nasarawa State, an advocate of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement (AfCFTA ), would ensure awareness creation in respect of the importance of the trade agreement for exporters in the state.

Recall that Nigerian Shippers’ Council as the ports economic regulator also facilitates the development of Inland Dry Port projects in the six-geopolitical zones of the country.

The idea is to bring shipping facilities nearer to the hinterlands as well as decongest the seaports.

The Chief Executive Officer of the NSC, Akutah believes that the dry ports project in many parts of the country will boost employment opportunities for Nigerians and increase substantial revenue generation for the government.