As Nigeria charts a bold path toward building a 1 trillion economy, maritime and logistics experts have warned that the countrys ambitions may remain elusive without urgent reform in the sector.
Speaking at the International Chamber of Commerce, ICC, Nigeria post meeting talk show, with the theme: "Shipping and Maritime Trade: The Backbone of International Trade," held in Lagos Executive Secretary/Chief Executive of Nigerian Shippers Council, NSC, Dr. Pius Akutah, maintained that no industrialisation agenda, export-led growth, or economic diversification strategy can be sustainably achieved without a robust, efficient, and competitive maritime infrastructure.
Akutah who was represented by Deputy Director, Trade Services at the NSC, Ms. Adaora Nwonu, said: "As Nigeria aspires to build a 1 trillion economy, we must recognize that no ambition of industrialization, export growth, or economic diversification can succeed without a competitive maritime and logistics system.
"At the NSC, we are redefining regulation, not as control, but as empowerment, transparency, and protection. We are building partnerships that support public goals and private investment. We are deepening institutional reforms to attract innovation and foster trust. Let us therefore work together, across government, private sector, and development partners, to build a shipping and maritime sector that serves not only Nigerias present needs, but also its future as a regional leader and global trade player.