At the 33rd session of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) General Assembly in London, Mohammed Bello-Koko, the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), unveiled the strategic vision behind the upcoming Port Community System (PCS). Positioned as a game-changing initiative, the PCS aims to harness the potential of Nigeria’s blue economy by seamlessly integrating all stakeholders in the maritime sector.
Bello-Koko emphasized that the PCS is not just a technological advancement but a holistic approach to fortify the national economy and enhance security measures within the Nigerian maritime domain. Joining the entourage of the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and Permanent Secretary Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Bello-Koko expressed confidence in Nigeria meeting the IMO 2025 deadline for port automation and integration.
The NPA MD highlighted the transformative impact of the PCS, foreseeing improved transparency, ease of doing business, and enhanced trade facilitation. He outlined key steps taken by the authority, including the development of automation-based processes. Illustrating the efficiency gains, Bello-Koko pointed to the success of the Electronic Ship Entry Notice (e-SEN), reducing the processing time from two weeks to just one hour.
This shift not only saves costs but also positions Nigerian ports as more trade-friendly, facilitating faster ship turnaround times. Bello-Koko underscored ongoing collaborative efforts with the IMO to establish a world-class port community system in line with global standards.
As the story unfolds, Bello-Koko highlighted the minister’s pivotal role in leading Nigeria’s delegation into bilateral meetings with ministers of marine affairs from Greece, Mexico, and Qatar. These engagements aim to set the stage for an enhanced Nigerian participation in global maritime trade, solidifying the nation’s position as a key player on the international stage.
