The minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has applauded the roles of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), in diversifying the economy from oil.
The minister who commended the Council’s role, over the weekend, at a reception for the executive secretary of the NSC, Barr. Pius Akutah in Lagos by Benue Professionals, described the NSC boss as a competent, worthy ally, following his purposeful leadership at the agency so far.
Oyetola who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Charles Akinola, the NSC said Akutah plays a major part in the renewed hope agenda as he achieved so much in less than a year of heading the NSC.
Oyetola noted that in the government’s quest for the maritime sector to contribute more to growing the national GDP and further diversifying the economy to enhance revenue.
“Akutah remains one of the best hands appointed to steer the ship of the economy.
The NSC plays a major part in the renewed hope agenda and being the economic regulator in the maritime sector and has been mandated to ensure that the quality, quantity and cost of service in the entire sector is moderated and standardised in line with global best practice.
“Only last Friday, we witnessed the signing of the joint agreement on minimum conditions of service for labour in the Nigerian shipping industry. Without his support, as well as that of other stakeholders, we would not have achieved the milestone.
“The agreement is testament to what we have achieved through mutual respect and collaborative effort, of which yours is one of the most highly noted. With trusted and dependable allies like your esteemed self, the journey towards building a more united maritime sector is better for all of us as stakeholders.
“I am confident that as the ES/CEO of NSC, will not only build on the foundation laid by his predecessors, he also has a great opportunity to cement the legacy of his achievements at the helm.”
The minister noted that in the government’s quest for the maritime sector to contribute more to growing the national GDP and further diversifying the economy to enhance revenue, “Akutah remains one of the best hands appointed to steer the ship of the economy.”
Also speaking, the secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, described Akutah as a brilliant young man with powerful ears, who carries his responsibilities with brilliance, excellence, humility and the zeal to serve.
Akume who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Chris Takar, noted that given what Akutah has done already in less than a year in office and the plans he is working on, Akutah will be one of the stars of this administration if chronicled after four years.
“If we look from where he took off to where he has come, we will recall the milestones he has reached, and every one of them is laudable. It is good that in the midst of greatness, in the midst of mighty men, he is a shining star. Let this just be the beginning of celebrations, because I believe you still have a lot to offer this nation; milestones to go in your community and personal lives.”
Speaking earlier, Barr. Akutah appreciated President Bola Tinubu for trusting that he would be a valuable part of his administration and for finding him competent enough to serve in his administration.
He also thanked Akume as his mentor and good role model for shaping his life and giving him to Nigeria to be able to serve the country.
He also thanked the minister, stating that the very first time they met was the day he gave him the job.
According to him, “he never knew me anywhere. It took only five minutes of our being together, after I was endorsed by Sen. George Akume, and he entrusted this responsibility into my hand.”
Akutah further commended the members of staff of the NSC “for being such a tremendously courageous group of people. It was just so easy for me to blend with them. Our journey has just started, and by the grace of God, Nigeria will not only hear about the Shippers’ Council but will also hear about every one of you.”
He further thanked the organisers, the Benue Professionals in Lagos, for finding it, “in the abundance of their kindness,” to honour him, praying that this same honour will continue with other personalities from Benue.
