The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has expressed optimism for a harmonious working relationship with its newly inaugurated board members.
Following the inauguration by the Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Sambo, on Wednesday in Abuja, NSC’s Executive Secretary, Emmanuel Jime, told journalists that the Council was happy it has a Board that will focus on its policy directions.
He said: “It is complimentary and we expect that we will have a very harmonious working relationship. I think for us in particular, we are truly excited about the inauguration of today’s board.
“Constituted among the membership of the board are returning members, which then means that there isn’t going to be a dislocation so to speak from the partnership that management enjoyed over the Board that have just been replaced.
“In other words, there will be continuity, and so seamlessly we’re able to work together in harmony to achieve the objectives of the Council.”
I expect that our working relationship will be tailored towards the achievement of those objectives that the Council has been established for.
On specific expectations, Jime said: “We are a regulatory agency in charge of economic activities in our ports and in that consideration, we are have the responsibility of making sure that the ports are working efficiently.
“In doing that of course, we have introduced certain modalities, certain tools that will enable us to deliver on that mandate.
“So, I expect that our working relationship will be tailored towards the achievement of those objectives that the Council has been established for.”
Earlier, the Chairman, Lawal Yakawada, expressed the desire of the Board to work with the management to strengthen revenue base and ensure efficient maritime sector business in Nigeria.
“Well, ours is policy guidance, like a supervisory role based on the existing rules and regulations establishing this very organisation.
“The executive is the operational officer. But we are the policy making body saddled with the responsibility to oversee, like the National Assembly with an oversight function based on stipulated rules and regulations,” he said.
The chairman reiterated the Board’s commitment to allow the management carry out its duties and only step in when necessary to ensure the Council delivered on its mandate without interference. (NAN)
