Members of the recently-constituted Nigerian Port Authority (NPA) Pilotage Districts Boards have called for an urgent review of relevant sections on pilotage in the Ports Act of 1999, to reflect the present dynamics of the industry.
The members in a communiqué signed by 21 participants at the workshop also resolved that the “NPA Marine Pilots Training Manual” be reviewed to ensure the proper and effective capacity for the Authority’s trainee pilots.
These were part of the eleven points adopted by the Pilotage Districts Board members at the end of their two days’ workshop, which took place in Abuja.
The body also in the communiqué, called for integration of the evaluation and appraisal of pilots in the NPA’s human resources process as highlighted by a presentation from the Human Resources/Operations Division of the NPA.
The workshop also showcased the imperatives of clearing the backlog of promotion of pilots, so that they can measure up with their peers in other departments.
The pilots board also called for the provision of adequate marine craft to other pilotage districts outside Lagos, to make them function optimally and further enhance safety of navigation and operational efficiency amidst greater efficient customer service delivery.
On the engagement of Escravos pilots to provide services in some segments of Delta port channel, the new board stressed the importance of the certification of pilots and regulating their services in order to ensure safety in the nation’s maritime domain.
The Board commended the Management of NPA for responding to the enforcement of Electronic Chart Display Information System (ECDIS) which will facilitate the training and equipment of the pilot.
Meanwhile, while speaking at the opening of the workshop, the Executive Director Marine and Operations, Dr. Sokonte Davies, assured members of the Board that NPA management will render necessary support to enhance the success of pilotage activities in all the districts.
Discussion about this post