The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has voiced strong support for the Port Regulatory Agency Bill (PRAB) 2023, urging stakeholders to back President Bola Tinubu's assent for it to become law. Executive Secretary Barr. Pius Akutah emphasized the bill's potential to enhance regulatory authority, enforce compliance, and improve efficiency in the maritime sector. Akutah, represented by Rotimi Anifowose, highlighted the need for collective action to realize the Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to revitalize Nigeria's economy through improved maritime operations. The NSC has recently achieved significant milestones, including a partnership with the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy in May 2024 and the commissioning of the Funtua Inland Dry Port. Akutah also pointed out that 85-90% of cargo in Lome Port is Nigeria-bound, stressing the urgent need for improved port conditions to facilitate trade and economic growth. This push for the PRAB follows the House of Representatives' passage of the bill, which is now awaiting Senate approval after the legislative recess. The Council believes that the establishment of the regulatory agency will be a key factor in advancing the country's shipping and port sector, ultimately contributing to the national economy's growth [5b5472e5].
In a related context, the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) of the Senate convened at the Parliament House in Islamabad, where they discussed various legislative matters and current national and international issues. The committee paid tribute to Former Senator Hidayatullah, who tragically lost his life in a bomb blast. The meeting included prominent figures such as Deputy Chairman Senate Syedaal Khan and Senator Sherry Rehman, who deliberated on the legislative agenda for the upcoming Senate session [53c8d912].
Moreover, the Shura Council meeting, chaired by Mohamed Hussein Al-Aidarous, addressed the local authority and services committees' reports, focusing on the transport sector's impact on the national economy. The reports highlighted significant losses in the transport sector due to ongoing challenges, including a blockade, amounting to over $14 billion [8c2b6536].