By Oluyinka Onigbinde
The Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Barr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima, has dismissed suggestions that his alleged political ambition in his home state Benue is affecting his performance or distracting him from his regulatory duties, insisting that he remains fully committed to his mandate as head of the agency.
He made the clarification in response to questions about claims within industry circles that his attention was being divided between his official responsibilities and emerging political interests, a situation some stakeholders linked to recent tensions over tariff adjustments and regulatory decisions in the maritime sector.
Akutah, however, rejected the allegations, describing them as unfounded and a misrepresentation of his priorities, stressing that his focus remains firmly on the discharge of his statutory responsibilities at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council.
He explained that while public officials are often subject of speculations regarding political intentions, such narratives should not be allowed to overshadow institutional work or be used to undermine regulatory actions taken in good faith and in line with the law.
According to him, all decisions taken under his leadership have been guided strictly by legal provisions, stakeholder consultations, and the broader objective of maintaining balance within the maritime economy, rather than any personal or political considerations.
He maintained that the Council’s priority remains the protection of national trade interests, fair regulation of the port economy, and ensuring stability across the shipping and logistics value chain.
Akutah further noted that distractions arising from political rumours or external commentary do not alter the Council’s regulatory direction, adding that his administration continues to engage stakeholders and implement reforms aimed at strengthening efficiency and transparency in the sector.
He emphasized that leadership of a critical economic regulatory agency requires focus, continuity, and adherence to due process, reiterating that his attention remains on institutional reforms rather than political pursuits.
The NSC boss also urged stakeholders and the public to evaluate his performance based on policy outcomes and sector stability rather than speculation about personal ambitions, stressing that the Council will continue to operate within its mandate regardless of external narratives.
He concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the Nigerian maritime sector, noting that his priority remains ensuring that regulatory interventions support economic growth, protect stakeholders’ interests, and enhance Nigeria’s position in regional and global trade
