Shippers’ Council, CIECOBON Partner On Export Promotion

BY GBOGBOWA GBOWA

The Chartered Institute of Export and Commodity Brokers of Nigeria (CIECOBON) and the Nigerian Shipper’s Council (NSC) have begun discussion on how to grow export, even as the President/Council Chairman of CIECOBON, Dr. Ayobami Omotoso has called on the Federal Government to establish an Export-specific Port to further encourage exports.

Omotoso who led members of the group on a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer and Management of Nigerian Shipper’s Council, NSC, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Jime recently, appealed to Federal Government through the NSC to establish an export designated port to enhance exports trade.

A statement by the Head of Public Relations, NSC, Rakiya Dhikru-Yagboyaju also quoted the CIECOBON President as saying that the lack of flat-bottomed vessels to transport cargos to Apapaport has rendered the use of Ikorodu Lighter Terminal once designated for export, dead on arrival decision.

Dr. Omotoso disclosed that one of the shipping lines operating in the sub-region has been providing open roof-top vessels for Ghanaian exporters of produce. He pleaded with NSC to discuss the possibility of extending such a service to Nigerian exporters because the RIFA containers that should ordinarily be used are too expensive for many exporters.

In his response, the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, Hon Emmanuel Jime warmly welcomed the delegation and assured them that part of NSC’s mandate, being in alliance with that of CIECOBON, will result in a partnership that will benefit the nation’s economy. He commended the doggedness of CIECOBON in promoting export through advocacy and capacity building. He enjoined the body to keep forging ahead in its mission with patriotic zeal.

He also assured Dr. Omotoso and his delegation that NSC will discuss the request for open rooftop vessels.

The Chartered Institute of Export and Commodity Brokers of Nigeria (CIECOBON) came into existence in 2015 following National Assembly approval of the merger of the Institute of Export of Nigeria (IEON) and Commodity Brokers Association of Nigeria (CBAN).