By Aderogba George (Abuja)
John Ugwu, new president of the Nigerian Shippers Association (NSC-FCT), has committed to prioritizing safer maritime transport practices and addressing the daunting financial challenges facing his members.
Mr. Ugwu made this commitment at the last century in Abuya, after defeating Mohammed Patigi by 31 votes against 10 in the association’s elections.
He stated that reducing the high interest rates charged by commercial banks to shippers will be a key priority during his mandate.
“The FCT association is facing many challenges. The most significant is the current interest rate, from 35% to 40%, that commercial banks offer. No shipping company can survive in these conditions”, he declared.
Mr. Ugwu stated that he will work to ensure financing in the interests of a single digit for his members and implement a digital maritime transport coordination system to increase the operational efficiency of the FCT.
I say that the new leader will also focus on repositioning the association as a driver of national development, committed to industrialization, the adoption of technology and the creation of employment for young people.
“We will import technology, we will industrialize our region, we will create jobs for the youngest generations and we will generate fiscal income to sustain our economy”, says Ugwu.
It is committed to promoting inclusion and working for a greater participation of women and young people in the maritime transport sector.
“I feel honored and grateful to be before you today and grateful for the trust you have placed in me.”
“This victory is not just about me, it is also about our collective efforts and our shared desire for progress in the maritime transport sector”, I say.
Amina Safana, Head of the Association of Interested Parties and Transporters of the NSC Liaison Office in Abuya, praised the peaceful and transparent electoral process that led to the election of new leaders.
I urge my members to prioritize patriotism and unity to promote the issues of the section.
These elections reflect our commitment to democratic values, unity and progress. “I congratulate all the candidates for their bravery, the electoral commission for their professionalism and the observers for their diligence”, he declared.
Safana also ensured the new direction for the continued cooperation of the council to improve regulatory compliance, intensify the participation of interested parties and promote the interests of transporters in the FCT.
The remaining elected members are Mr. Mohammed Patigi, vice-president; Mr. Anih Chigbo, secretary; and Mr. Okeke Harrison, Undersecretary.
The remaining elected members are Mr. Joseph Okeke, treasurer; Mr. Ifeanyi Ujuagu, Secretary of Finance; and Lillian Abiodun, in charge of Public Relations.
