Nigeria is being urged to ensure that the country’s seaports are rehabilitated and critical infrastructure fixed urgently as part of economic recovery plan.
Stakeholders in the maritime sector says unless this is done efforts to recover the economy may just be another wild goose chase.
Stakeholders in the maritime sector praised the outgoing President General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Anthony Nted for the enduring peace and industrial harmony that prevailed in the industry during his tenure.
Also of great concern is the poor state of roads and other infrastructure at the ports, which are being blamed for the high cost of clearing goods in the country.
Speaking at the ceremony for outgoing President General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Anthony Nted, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Ayuba Wabba said that the role that maritime plays in the conomy can never be underestimated.
“Maritime plays important role in the economy because the port is the gateway for investment inflows into the country. Why for instance, would people want to clear goods through other West Africa countries? This is because our cost is high. For example, freighting from Geneva cost 1000 CF to Nigeria as against 600 CF to other West African countries, he said.
On his part Mr Nted urged government to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive and create jobs, adding that those in the position of leadership should stop playing on people’s intelligence by missing politics with business.
