Shippers’ Council Commits to Rail Transport Solutions, Baro Port Development
Abuja Shippers Association President, Mr. John Ugwu (4th from left) CEO of Shippers Council, Dr Akutah Pius Ukeyima and other staff of the council when the Association visited the Abuja Liaison Office of the Council on Wednesday
The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr. Pius Akutah Ukeyima, has met with leaders of the Abuja Shippers’ Association at the Council’s Abuja Liaison Office.
The visit, which took place on January 28, 2026, was an introductory meeting where the Association’s President, Mr. John Ugwu, outlined challenges facing shippers, including heavy reliance on seaports and poor road infrastructure.
Ugwu advocated for a functional rail network and the operationalization of the Baro Inland Port, citing high logistics costs and difficulties accessing affordable loans.
In his response, Dr. Pius Akutah said that the Council is working with the Nigerian Railway Corporation to improve rail transport.
He explained that the Baro port requires dredging, a capital-intensive project, and noted that the Council can discuss loan issues with the Bank of Industry.
Dr. Pauline Osasona, Deputy Director of the Abuja Liaison Office, highlighted benefits of joining a Shippers’ Association, including advocacy, trade facilitation, and networking opportunities.
