The Director-General/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA), Dr. Pius Akutah, MON, has called on maritime stakeholders in Akwa Ibom State to strengthen collaboration with the Agency to unlock the state’s maritime potential, address infrastructure challenges, and promote local capacity development.
Dr. Akutah made the call during an engagement with maritime stakeholders at NPERA’s Port Office in Uyo, where he stressed the need for collective commitment and sustained partnerships to advance maritime activities and position the state to benefit from emerging opportunities in the marine and blue economy.
He urged stakeholders to identify areas of mutual interest and develop practical initiatives that would deepen maritime operations, noting that the Agency and industry operators must work together towards achieving sustainable growth in the sector.
Addressing concerns over inadequate anchorage facilities for vessels operating in Akwa Ibom waters—with more than 300 fishing vessels reportedly operating without designated anchorage facilities—the NPERA boss challenged stakeholders to develop a clear proposal for a private jetty that would provide designated anchorage facilities and improve maritime operations in the state.
On the proposed deep-sea port, Dr. Akutah urged stakeholders to prepare a comprehensive technical presentation detailing the project’s status and economic development requirements, explaining that the document would provide a basis for further engagement with the Akwa Ibom State Government and be presented to the Governor for consideration.
Highlighting prospects in international shipping, the Director-General disclosed that 10 shipping lines had indicated interest in calling at Nigerian ports following his participation in a conference in China, describing it as an opportunity to strengthen Nigeria’s international shipping connections, expand maritime business, and create new prospects for states with viable maritime potential.
Dr. Akutah also underscored the importance of human capital development, urging stakeholders to identify areas of collaboration that would facilitate locally delivered training programs and equip people in the state with relevant maritime skills and expertise.
Earlier, the stakeholders commended the establishment of NPERA’s Port Office in Uyo, describing it as a significant step towards bringing regulatory services closer to industry operators, addressing shipping concerns, and stimulating maritime trade.
