Port Community System initiative to catapult Nigeria’s global trade prospects, says Oyetola
In a pivotal move aimed at streamlining port operations in Nigeria through the implementation of Port Community System (PCS), the Minister for Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola CON, has assured that the initiative will bolster Nigeria’s global trade prospects.
Oyetola, who received a comprehensive report for the implementation of the PCS at a ceremony held in Abuja recently, said the project marks a significant stride towards fostering a more conducive business environment within the nation’s ports.
The PCS initiative, in line with the Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL) of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), aims to revolutionise maritime operations by curbing unnecessary delays, fostering intergovernmental cooperation, and standardising formalities and procedures.
Addressing attendees, Minister Oyetola underscored the strategic importance of PCS adoption, emphasising its pivotal role in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria’s economic resurgence.
He reiterated the President’s mandate, highlighting the inclusion of PCS implementation as a crucial Key Performance Indicator for his ministry.
Commending the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) for their proactive approach in seeking technical guidance from the IMO, Minister Oyetola pledged his commitment to spearheading the initiative’s realization.
He urged expedited procurement processes and stressed the need for seamless coordination with external stakeholders, including the Nigerian Customs Service.
“Realising the importance of the implementation of the PCS on the fulfillment of the overarching objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR included the implementation of the Port Community System as a Key Performance Indicator for the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy under the Presidential Performance Bond I signed as a Minister,” he said.
Acknowledging the collaborative efforts of international bodies such as the IMO and the International Port Community Systems Association (IPCSA), Minister Oyetola lauded their professionalism in crafting the PCS report.
Echoing Oyetola’s sentiments, Mohammed Bello Koko, the Managing Director/CEO of NPA, affirmed the significance of automation in enhancing port efficiency and competitiveness.
Describing PCS implementation as a national imperative, Koko assured the Minister of NPA’s unwavering dedication towards its successful execution.
Noteworthy is the recent endorsement of PCS by the Comptroller-General of Nigerian Customs, Mr. Adewale Bashir Adeniyi MFR, signaling a united front towards facilitating smoother trade operations.
These developments herald a promising era for business facilitation and trade enhancement in Nigeria, laying the groundwork for heightened global engagement and economic prosperity.
