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In a strategic move to unlock Benue State’s enormous trade and agricultural potential, a delegation from the Benue Shippers Association has held high-level talks with the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) at its Abuja liaison office, receiving firm assurances of partnership and support for key shipping and logistics projects in the state.
Led by Dr. Mhir Aii Iyenge, the delegation pressed home the urgent need for functional Inland Dry Ports (IDPs) to serve Benue’s farmers, traders, and neighbouring states, while highlighting challenges such as lack of office space for the association and limited awareness of NSC programmes among members.
Receiving the team, the Executive Secretary/CEO of the NSC, Dr. Pius Akutah Gbongbon, MON, gave a warm welcome and pledged concrete action. He revealed that a new site has already been allocated for the NSC Makurdi Area Office, with plans to provide dedicated office accommodation for the Benue Shippers Association within the complex.
Dr. Akutah further disclosed that the Council has officially written to the Benue State Government in support of the proposed Inland Dry Port project and expressed readiness to collaborate on developing a river port in Makurdi if the state pursues it. He noted that while only three IDPs are currently fully operational nationwide, Benue’s project remains a priority for the Council.
On capacity building, the NSC boss announced plans to train both established and emerging shippers in the state, with special focus on the Cargo Defence Fund, while Border Information Centres will also be established to facilitate smoother cross-border trade.
Other NSC directors present – Mrs. Ify Okolue (Consumer Affairs), Mr. Mustapha Zubairu (Human Resources Management), and Dr. Jeremiah Okoliko (North-Central Zonal Coordinating Office) – all echoed the Council’s commitment to sensitisation, advocacy support, and regional cooperation to ensure the Benue IDP becomes reality.
The meeting ended on an optimistic note, with both parties reaffirming their determination to strengthen shipping services, boost trade, and create new business opportunities for entrepreneurs across Benue State. With federal backing now clearly in place, the long-awaited activation of modern shipping and logistics infrastructure in the food basket of the nation appears closer than ever.
