As part of its transition into the Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA), the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) officially launched its Succession Planning Strategy: Middle Management Leadership Development Programme (MMLDP) on June 30, 2025.
The induction ceremony, held in Lagos, marked a significant milestone for the Council. It is the first initiative of its kind, involving 16 carefully selected middle management staff, each with at least five years remaining in service. The programme is designed to ensure leadership continuity, preserve institutional memory, and drive sustained organizational growth.
In his opening remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Council, Dr. Akutah Pius expressed his delight at the commencement of the programme. He acknowledged the rigorous selection process and congratulated the participants for emerging successful in what he described as a highly competitive exercise.
“You did well to be here,” Dr. Akutah said. “I know how thorough the selection process was, and I’m not surprised by the faces I see today. Some of you I have met personally, others have worked closely with me. I know your potential, and it’s no surprise you made it this far.”
He encouraged the participants to remain committed and hardworking, noting that the programme marks the beginning of broader institutional transformation.
“Succession planning is not a one-time event. This programme will become a permanent fixture within the Council,” he stated.
Dr. Akutah urged the participants to see the opportunity as a stepping stone to becoming future leaders in the maritime and regulatory sectors. He reaffirmed his confidence in the calibre of resource persons facilitating the programme and emphasized the importance of local capacity development.
“I believe in local content and in enhancing the capabilities within our organization. That is the essence of this initiative,” he said. “Some of you may not have been appropriately placed during your initial recruitment despite your qualifications. But this is how the civil service works—you enter, you grow. The window for growth and better positioning is now open.”
With the NSC’s transition into NPERA nearing completion—pending the signing of the enabling bill—Dr. Akutah spoke about the fresh opportunities ahead.
“We’re on the brink of creating a new agency with new structures, departments, and culture. This is your chance to prove yourselves and be considered for key leadership roles.”
He concluded by expressing optimism about the participants’ future contributions to both the Council and the wider port and logistics sector.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has spotlighted this sector as a key driver of economic growth. We need professionals who can compete globally. As we build an agency that matches international standards, you will be at the forefront of this transformation. We count on your sound minds and sound training to help chart that path forward”, he said.
