NPA, NIMASA forge strong synergy to grow ease of doing business at Rivers Ports
The Port Manager of Rivers Port Complex, Mr. A. G. Umar has assured cordial relationship between the Port and agencies, and NIMASA in particular.
This played out when Umar paid a courtesy visit to the Port Service Comptroller of NIMASA, Mr. Umar Dachia.
He observed that since he took over, he has never received any complain of delay on ship clearance from shipping agents, this according to him shows that NIMASA recognizes the issue of trade relationship and its statutory responsibility.
The Port Manager pointed out some of the challenges faced by the Port to include, the issue of piracy attack which according to him, is the immediate responsibility of NIMASA in term of ensuring safety and security on the water ways.
Umar highlighted the importance of security patrol on the water way as it gives ship owners the confidence of doing business in the Port without having the fearof being attacked. “The attack on ship is a serious issue that affects the patronage of the Port” he added.
Another issue raised was the change of status of shipping company by NIMASA which he advised that changes should be related to him because as the head of the Port it is necessary to be on the know sighting an instance where a vessel that has been cleared was later detained without information.
Reiterating the fact that as sister agencies representing our organization’s value, we will not play with safety and any other thing that has to do with risk. We are always around for cordial relationship, he stated.
Responding at this point, the Port Service Comptroller of NIMASA Mr. Dachia appreciated the visit by the Port Manager and his team and sees it as a sign of respect for the agency.
He explained that the agency has been trying in terms of security and some years back, a platform was established with Global Vessel, Memorandum of Understanding was entered with the Navy and both responded whenever called upon but noted that the contract with Global vessel have been terminated. That as it maybe, the agency has safety units that are always in contact with those at the vessel. “It is clear we are all striving towards the same goal and the guidance and assistance of the Port is highly needed.’’
Furthermore, he promised to put his men on the right track of ensuring that whenever there is change in documentation as it covers ship clearance and operations, the Port Manager should be given a first-hand information.
While promising that in their next management meeting, he will bring up all the challenges and issues brought up by the Port Manager as he appreciated the Port Manager’s effort towards ensuring that the cordial relationship enjoyed by both organizations is not damaged.
Amongst those present during the visit are UdokaOgbonna- Head Labour NIMASA; EniregboIbeawuchi A. – DMSO NIMASA; Taye Emokhare –Secretary NIMASA; E. M. Asinobi (Mrs.) – Chief Port Public Affairs Officer; Arogundade R- Port Security Officer; Makanjuola Teslin- Rep Traffic Manager.
