By Oluwakemi Kindness
The National Coalition for Transformative Reforms (NCTR) has endorsed the Federal Government’s implementation of the National Single Window, saying the digital platform will speed up cargo clearance, reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and improve operational efficiency across Nigeria’s ports.
The coalition also commended the administration of President Bola Tinubu for reforms in the maritime sector, saying investments in infrastructure, digital transformation and regulatory restructuring are repositioning Nigeria’s ports to attract investment, facilitate trade and drive economic growth.
Executive Director of the coalition, Richard Ocheje, also praised the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Abubakar Dantsoho, for reforms he said had restored public confidence in the agency and advanced the Federal Government’s port modernisation agenda.
“This digital platform is aimed at digitally integrating port operations and streamlining cargo clearance, reducing vessel waiting and cargo turnaround times. No doubt, this will promote both efficiency and effectiveness,” Ocheje said.
He also highlighted ongoing maritime projects, including the £746 million United Kingdom financing deal for the upgrade of the Lagos Port Complex, Apapa and Tin Can Island Port, the $1 billion reconstruction of five major seaports, and plans to develop five new deep seaports to expand Nigeria’s cargo handling capacity.
Ocheje further welcomed the passage of the Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) Bill by the National Assembly, saying the proposed law would establish an independent regulator to oversee port tariffs, improve service delivery, promote transparency and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness as a regional maritime hub.
The coalition expressed confidence that sustained reforms in the marine and blue economy would improve the ease of doing business, increase investment, create jobs and boost non-oil revenue.
