By Dan Abutu
The Nigerian maritime industry, a behemoth pulsating with the lifeblood of global trade, has long felt the tremors of change. Yet, amid the churn and churn of shifting currents, a figure emerges, steady and resolute, charting a course towards a brighter horizon. He is barrister Pius Ukeyima Akuta, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, and his leadership signals a new era of reform, reinvention, and renewed hope.
For decades, the Shippers’ Council, entrusted with safeguarding the interests of Nigerian shippers, has grappled with challenges that mirrored the broader complexities of the maritime sector. Inefficiencies plagued operations, disputes lingered unresolved, and the voices of shippers often echoed unheard. In this landscape, Barrister Akuta’s arrival is akin to a lighthouse piercing the fog, illuminating a path forward.
However, it is under his leadership that we are witnessing a truly transformative period, characterized by a wave of silent reforms that have the potential to shape the future of the Council and the nation’s economy.
His journey to the helm of the Council was itself a testament to his unwavering commitment to the maritime sector. As a maritime lawyer with years of experience navigating the intricate legalities of international trade, he possessed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by Nigerian shippers. This understanding, coupled with an unwavering work ethic and a visionary spirit, formed the bedrock of his audacious vision for the Council.
Barrister Pius Ukeyima Akuta’s tenure as the Executive Secretary of the Shippers Council has been marked by a series of silent reforms, aimed at revolutionizing the operations of the institution and enhancing its service to the nation. These reforms, though not always visible to the public eye, have been instrumental in improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability within the Council.
Barrister Akuta’s ideas have been nothing short of transformative. Without fanfare, he has embarked on a silent revolution – a quiet resolve of a captain setting his course. His focus has been on building strong foundations and establishing systems and processes that will weather the storms of the future.
One of the key areas of focus for Barrister Pius Ukeyima Akuta has been the digitalization of processes and services within the Shippers Council. Recognizing the need for streamlined operations in a rapidly changing global landscape, he has championed the implementation of cutting-edge technologies to automate various tasks, such as documentation, tracking, and communication. From online dispute resolution platforms to automated cargo tracking systems, technology is being harnessed to streamline processes, enhance transparency, and empower shippers.
Gone are the days of cumbersome paperwork and lengthy bureaucratic delays; under Akuta’s leadership, the Council is embracing the efficiency and accessibility that the digital age has to offer. This digital transformation has not only reduced bureaucratic bottlenecks but has also significantly enhanced the overall experience for shippers, leading to increased efficiency and cost savings.
But technology is merely a tool; the engine that drives it forward is people. Recognizing this, Barrister Akuta has invested heavily in human capital development and prioritized capacity building and training programs for the staff of the Shippers Council. By investing in the professional development of the workforce, he has empowered them with the knowledge and skills necessary to adapt to new challenges and deliver exceptional service. This focus on human capital has fostered a culture of excellence and professionalism within the Council, resulting in improved service delivery and customer satisfaction.
Training programs and capacity-building initiatives have equipped Council staff with the expertise needed to navigate the complexities of digital transformation. This focus on human development ensures that the Council is not just technologically advanced, but also equipped with the human touch that is vital in serving the needs of shippers.
However, Barrister Pius has spearheaded initiatives to foster stronger collaborations and partnerships with relevant stakeholders, both nationally and internationally. By forging strategic alliances with shipping lines, port operators, and other government agencies, he has created a conducive environment for dialogue, cooperation, and collective problem-solving. These partnerships have not only strengthened the Council’s influence but have also facilitated knowledge sharing and the adoption of best practices, ultimately benefiting the Nigerian maritime industry as a whole.
One of his most impactful initiatives has been the establishment of the Shippers’ Complaints Unit. This dedicated unit provides a platform for shippers to voice their grievances and seek redressal. No longer must their concerns fall on deaf ears; under Akuta’s leadership, the Council is actively listening and working to resolve issues with swiftness and fairness.
Furthermore, Barrister Akuta has been a vocal advocate for the rights of Nigerian shippers on the international stage. He has engaged with port authorities and shipping lines around the world, pushing for fairer tariffs, reduced demurrage charges, and improved service standards. His unwavering commitment to protecting the interests of Nigerian shippers is no doubt earning him respect and recognition across the global maritime community.
Barrister Akuta’s vision extends beyond the confines of the Shippers’ Council. He recognizes that the maritime industry is a complex ecosystem, and sustainable progress requires collaboration. He has forged strong partnerships with government agencies, private sector stakeholders, and academic institutions, leveraging their expertise and resources to drive positive change.
His efforts have been instrumental in the development of the National Transport Master Plan, a blueprint for the future of the Nigerian transportation sector. He has also played a key role in the establishment of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, a center of excellence dedicated to nurturing the next generation of maritime professionals.
Barrister Pius Ukeyima Akuta’s silent reforms at the Shippers Council are not merely administrative adjustments; they represent a visionary approach to transforming the Council into a world-class institution that can effectively support Nigeria’s economic growth and development. Through digitalization, capacity building, and strategic collaborations, he has laid a solid foundation for the Council’s future success.
The silent reforms he has championed will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness of the Council’s operations. By embracing innovation and fostering partnerships, he is positioning the Council as a key player in the global shipping industry and a catalyst for Nigeria’s economic prosperity.
Barrister Pius Ukeyima Akuta’s leadership at the Shippers’ Council is more than just a series of impressive initiatives; it is a symbol of hope. It is a testament to the fact that progress is possible and that even in the most challenging of circumstances, dedicated leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment can pave the way for a brighter future.
As the Nigerian maritime industry charts its course towards calmer waters, one thing is certain: the ship is in steady hands. Under the guidance of Barrister Akuta, a new era of prosperity, empowerment, and sustainable growth beckons. The echoes
Living legends like Barrister Pius Ukeyima Akuta are rare to find in this generation of ours. They are time travelers with a transformative nature of leadership skills. Indispensable rare gems to be sought after, and a hallmark
of transformation needed to make any country a great nation.
As Nigerians, we should rally behind these silent reforms and support the vision of a more efficient, transparent, and globally competitive maritime sector. With Barrister Pius Ukeyima Akuta at the helm, we can confidently embrace a future where the Shippers Council plays a pivotal role in driving Nigeria’s economic growth and shaping our nation’s destiny.
Abutu is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja.