Akutah Pius Okeyima, the Executive Secretary and CEO of the Nigeria Shippers' Council, has highlighted the importance of Gateway International Airport as a vital infrastructure that could tackle various challenges related to cargo transportation within Nigeria and throughout the West African sub-region.
Mr. Okeyima made this assertion during a courtesy visit to Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun at his office located in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
He expressed his approval of the advancements made in the state, noting that the airport would act as a strategic center for cargo logistics, serving both Nigeria and the surrounding region effectively.
The establishment of this cargo airport is seen as a significant step towards improving the nation's transportation framework and enhancing the efficiency of goods movement.
“The state cargo airport stands as a pivotal component for the transportation sector and for facilitating cargo transit within and outside Nigeria. The initiation and operation of this airport mark another achievement in the enhancement of infrastructure for cargo transport in the region,” he stated.
He added, “Currently, cargo movement across West Africa faces major difficulties due to an ineffective intermodal transport system in the area. Therefore, the development of this cargo airport opens up substantial opportunities for better cargo flow within West Africa and beyond.”
Mr. Okeyima also acknowledged that Ogun State's status as Nigeria’s industrial hub makes efficient cargo movement crucial for driving economic development. He lauded the state government for its initiative in concurrently developing two dry ports, remarking on the rapid progress of both projects.
He explained that the Council selected Ogun State to host its upcoming retreat due to its favorable business environment, emphasizing that the meeting would enable participants to address pressing issues regarding cargo transport and seek viable solutions.
“We are set to discuss various critical projects as part of the Nigeria Shippers’ Council’s agenda, one of which is located within Ogun State. Our focus this year is on expanding essential infrastructure for services across Nigeria to ensure faster cargo transportation and enhance the overall business climate,” he elaborated.
“Ogun State is a commendable partner in this regard, particularly with the ongoing development of two dry ports. Our visit here reflects our support for the government’s efforts to alleviate congestion at the seaports by creating these essential infrastructure projects,” he added.
Mr. Okeyima commended the state’s development trajectory, attributing the increase in industrial activities to the government's ongoing commitment to improving infrastructure and fostering a conducive business atmosphere.
“In our visits over the past two years, we have seen remarkable strides. The governor's dedication to excellence is evident, and the transformation occurring across the state is impressive,” he remarked.
In response, Governor Abiodun shared that the state administration is concurrently working on a Deep Sea Port project aimed at boosting economic growth, which will assist in decongesting the Lagos ports and improving overall cargo transit once operational.
He recognized the role of the Nigeria Shippers’ Council in enabling smooth cargo flow through efficient handling, processing, and regulation, and urged Council members to utilize the retreat as an opportunity to devise strategies that will further enhance the Council’s effectiveness and service delivery.
Governor Abiodun expressed his gratitude to the Shippers’ Council for selecting Ogun State as the venue for their retreat, reaffirming his administration's deliberate efforts to cultivate a peaceful and supportive environment for residents and businesses.
He further assured the Council of the continuous backing of the Ogun State Government in improving cargo movement and bolstering Nigeria's logistics and maritime sector.
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