Nigerian ports can compete globally – Terminal operators

The Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria has said that the 2006 port concession exercise has better positioned Nigerian ports to compete globally.

The Chairman of STOAN, Vicky Haastrup, stated this in a statement when he hosted the Nigerian Ports Consultative Council, led by its Chairman, Bolaji Sunmola, who paid a courtesy visit to STOAN.

She highlighted the transformative impact of the 2006 port concession program, which handed over port operations to private terminal operators, noting the strides made since then.

“Since the port concession reform, private terminal operators have invested heavily in modernising infrastructure, improving efficiency, and creating employment opportunities. Today, our ports are better positioned to compete globally, and this progress must be sustained through effective collaboration with bodies like the NPCC,” she added.

Haastrup charged the NPCC to reclaim its esteemed position as a leading advisory body on port matters, emphasising the critical role advocacy plays in advancing Nigeria’s maritime sector.

“The NPCC was once a formidable voice in the port industry, shaping policies and driving improvements. It is crucial for the council to regain its lost glory and reposition itself as a pivotal contributor to the development of our ports,” Haastrup said.

Earlier, the Chairman of NPCC, Sunmola, outlined the council’s mandate to advise on port efficiency, facilitate stakeholder engagement, and ensure Nigeria’s ports remain competitive.

Sunmola, however, acknowledged the financial challenges impeding the council’s operations.

“The NPCC plays a vital role in addressing the challenges facing the maritime sector, but we are battling severe funding constraints. We appeal to terminal operators and other stakeholders to support us in fulfilling our mandate,” Sunmola said.

While responding to the appeal, Haastrup encouraged private operators and government agencies to support the NPCC.

“The success of our maritime sector depends on collaboration. Terminal operators understand the value of a robust advisory body like the NPCC, and I believe together we can overcome these challenges,” she said.

She said there is a need for enhanced advocacy to address systemic bottlenecks, improve infrastructure, and attract more investments to the sector.