The Nigerian Shippers Council has announced that the Kaduna dry port has successfully received and cleared over 500 containers of goods in the past three months.
Buba Danjuma, Director of the Kaduna Port Office, confirmed this on Saturday while addressing journalists at a maritime industry sensitisation event during the ongoing 46th Kaduna International Trade Fair.
Danjuma described the Kaduna dry port as a crucial hub, officially designated as both a port of origin and destination for cargo. He emphasized that the port plays a vital role in facilitating exports and imports, connecting Kaduna to global trade routes.
He also highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing railway operations, a move expected to boost dry port activities and increase cargo capacity.
“Local goods will flow seamlessly between Lagos and Kaduna. With enhanced railway services, container deliveries in Kaduna are expected to exceed 1,000 within the same period,” he stated.
Danjuma noted that high logistics costs remain a significant challenge for businesses, and improving railway efficiency would help lower these expenses.
He explained that the sensitisation session at the trade fair aimed to educate stakeholders on the Council’s role in trade facilitation. He stressed the Council’s commitment to promoting the maritime industry and ensuring a smooth business environment for all participants.
“The ease of doing business is a key focus for the Council, which aims to support import-export businesses,” he said.
He further revealed that the Council is working on establishing additional dry ports nationwide to provide viable alternatives to traditional seaports.
“Dry ports are essential infrastructure for transporting goods and supporting alternative trade routes,” he added.
Danjuma also mentioned the establishment of Border Information Centres in key locations such as Idi Roko, Jibia, and Illela.
“These centres offer vital information and support to shippers, helping them navigate the complexities of international trade,” he said.
He reiterated that the Council’s services are free and aimed at improving shipping efficiency, while warning shippers to remain cautious of online scams. He encouraged them to take advantage of the Council’s open-door policy for guidance.
Reaffirming the Nigerian Shippers Council’s commitment, Danjuma assured stakeholders that the Council will continue to defend shippers’ interests and promote fairness in the shipping industry.
