The Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) has called on maritime stakeholders in Akwa Ibom State to work together to unlock the state’s maritime and commercial potential.
The agency’s Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Pius Akutah, made the appeal during a meeting with industry stakeholders at NPERA’s Port Office in Uyo.
He said stronger partnerships, local skills development and improved infrastructure were necessary to expand maritime activities and attract more investment to the state.
NPERA Seeks Proposal for Private Jetty
One of the major issues discussed was the difficulty faced by vessels operating in Akwa Ibom waters due to the lack of designated anchorage facilities.
Akutah challenged industry operators to develop a detailed proposal for a private jetty that could help address the problem.
Stakeholders disclosed that more than 300 fishing vessels reportedly operate in the state’s waters without designated anchorage points.
The NPERA chief executive said a properly prepared proposal would give the agency a basis for further discussions and consideration of the project.
Deep-Sea Port Plan Gets Attention
The proposed deep-sea port was another major focus of the meeting.
Akutah urged stakeholders to prepare a comprehensive technical document explaining the project’s current status, investment opportunities and infrastructure requirements.
He said the document would help the agency engage the Akwa Ibom State Government and present the proposal to the governor for consideration.
Stakeholders welcomed the proposal, describing a deep-sea port as an important opportunity to expand maritime trade, attract investment and create economic activities in the state.
Ten Shipping Lines Express Interest in Nigerian Ports
Akutah also disclosed that 10 international shipping lines had indicated interest in calling at Nigerian ports following his participation in a conference in China.
He described the development as an opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s international shipping connections and expand business activities within the maritime industry.
However, he stressed that the country must improve its capacity and infrastructure to take advantage of emerging opportunities.
Agency Targets Maritime Training and Local Capacity
Beyond infrastructure, the NPERA director-general emphasised the need to develop local expertise in the maritime sector.
He encouraged stakeholders to work with the agency on training programmes that would equip residents with relevant industry skills.
The stakeholders also proposed sending NPERA personnel to schools in Uyo to introduce students to maritime education and career opportunities.
Akutah further urged shippers to take advantage of the Cargo Defence Fund, which provides support to eligible shippers.
Stakeholders Welcome NPERA’s Presence in Uyo
The stakeholders described the establishment of NPERA’s Port Office in Uyo as an important step towards addressing challenges in the state’s shipping and maritime industry.
They also expressed hope that the agency’s presence would help revive the Shippers Association, which they said had remained largely inactive for about 20 years.
They believe stronger institutional support could encourage more people and businesses to participate in maritime trade.
The meeting forms part of NPERA’s efforts to strengthen industry partnerships and support the development of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.
For Akwa Ibom, the major challenge now is turning proposals for better anchorage facilities, a private jetty and a deep-sea port into practical projects capable of creating jobs and expanding trade.
Source: Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA).
