The Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) have commenced discussions on the transfer of inland dry port-related functions as part of efforts to ensure a seamless implementation of the new regulatory framework and promote the growth of Nigeria’s marine and blue economy.
The meeting, held between the management of both agencies, focused on the technical aspects of the transfer.
Speaking at the meeting, the Director-General of NPERA, Dr. Akutah Pius, said the directive of the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, should be viewed as a directive aimed at advancing the growth and development of the nation’s marine and blue economy.
He stressed that the transition into the new dispensation could not be successfully achieved by NPERA alone, noting that the cooperation of all relevant stakeholders was essential.
According to him, the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy would remain at the centre of the transition process, while relevant mandates would be appropriately transferred to facilitate smooth integration.
He noted that the Minister’s intervention while the NPERA Bill was still before the National Assembly, had helped resolve disagreements among agencies and created a foundation for greater inter-agency collaboration.
Akutah further emphasised the importance of unity and cooperation in achieving a successful transition, explaining that the purpose of the meeting was to commence the process of transferring the relevant inland dry port duties to NPA, in line with the agency’s mandate as an economic regulator.
He said the provisions of the NPERA Act, including Section 51, needed to be effectively operationalised to facilitate a seamless transition and ensure that the various responsibilities of stakeholders were properly aligned.
The NPERA boss proposed the establishment of a joint committee comprising NPERA, NPA, the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), and the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy to coordinate the transition process.
He noted that inland dry ports are critical to extending the benefits of the maritime sector to Nigeria’s hinterland and strengthening the country’s trade and logistics network.
Responding, the Managing Director of NPA, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho described the initiative as a welcome development and assured NPERA of the Authority’s operational and technical support throughout the transition process.
Dantsoho said the process had commenced with the right intention and purpose, adding that updated information on the current status of inland dry ports would be made available to support the deliberations.
He expressed optimism that further engagements would lead to the realisation of the objectives of the transition and strengthen the development of inland dry ports.
Also speaking, the Executive Director of the NPA, Engr. Lekan Badmus, commended NPERA for initiating the collaboration, describing the meeting as an important step towards achieving a smooth integration.
He said the agencies had now entered the technical phase of the transition, with particular attention being given to avoiding duplication of functions.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Akutah said that the proposed committee would reconvene with the Minister to obtain further clarification on the transition and agree on the necessary steps to ensure that the process is implemented smoothly and effectively.
