CSOs back shippers council regulatory bill
By Femi Ogunshola
The Coalition of Civil Society Groups in Nigeria for Promotion of Accountability and Transparency in Governance (CCSGNPATG) have thrown their weight behind the proposed Nigeria Shippers Council Regulatory Agency.
Mr Monday Ndubisi, the leader of the coalition which comprises 45 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), said this at a press conference in Abuja on Monday.
He hailed the Committee on Shipping Services for its inclusivity and commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola for getting it right with the Shipping Council Regulatory bill.
Ndubisi commended the committee for giving stakeholders the platform to make inputs to the bill at a public hearing.
“The legislation aims at empowering the Nigerian Shippers Council to effectively regulate the shipping industry, protect the interests of shippers, and promote economic growth.
“The Bill for an Act to Repeal the Nigeria Shippers’ Council Act, and enact the Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill and related matter has passed second reading in the House of Representatives.
“This bill will bring much-needed transparency, accountability, and efficiency to the sector while strengthening the Shippers Council’s regulatory powers,” he said.
Ndubuisi further added that it would also reduce costs, increase competition, and improve service delivery.
He said that the passage of the bill would have a positive impact on the Nigerian economy and the lives of citizens.
“Our coalition is pleased to note that 99 per cent of the opinions expressed at the public hearing are in favour of the bill as presented.
“We also note that a few amendments were suggested, which the House Committee on Shipping Services, ably led Rep. Abdulsamad Dansuki, has promised to take note of,’’ he said.
He said that such an accommodating disposition was what the electorates expected of the lawmakers, adding that they are looking forward to the House to sustain this trend. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Funmilayo Adeyemi/Christiana Fadare
Published By
- Senior Editor
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