Harboursandport.com: Lagos, Nigeria – March 2, 2026: The Nigerian Shoppers Council, NSC and the Western Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy have reaffirmed their commitment to deeper collaboration aimed at boosting port efficiency, strengthening maritime security and advancing Nigeria's Blue Economy.
During a courtesy visit by Abubakar Mustapha, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, NSC’s Executive Secretary/CEO, Akutah Pius, emphasized that maritime security is indispensable to trade facilitation, noting that over 90 per cent of global cargo is transported by sea.
Akutah described the Navy as a strategic partner in ensuring cargo safety and operational stability, highlighting ongoing NSC reforms such as reducing cargo dwell time, promoting port automation, and preparing for the implementation of the National Single Window project.
The Naval boss commended the Council’s regulatory reforms and stressed the nexus between security and regulation.
“Without security, ships will not come in, and if ships do not come in, there will be nothing to regulate,” he said.
He outlined key naval operations, including Exercise Omi Ailewu, ember-month patrols, and the Chief of Naval Staff Annual Sea Inspection Exercise, CASI which deployed over 16 vessels to reinforce Nigeria’s maritime presence.
The Shippers Council helmsman praised the Navy’s efforts in reducing piracy incidents, noting that improved security has enhanced global shipping confidence and supported Nigeria’s case for removal from war risk classifications that inflate freight costs.
Both leaders agreed that enhanced collaboration, improved maritime domain awareness through technology, and continuous stakeholder engagement would further stabilize Nigeria’s port environment and support national economic growth.
Discussions also touched on the Navy’s forthcoming 70th anniversary celebrations scheduled for May 29 to June 4, which will feature a Presidential Fleet Review and international maritime engagements involving more than 40 countries.
The NSC pledged its participation, describing the milestone as a reflection of the Navy’s enduring role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime interests.
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