By LUNBYEN MIRI
The Federal Government says it is investing in systems that promote ease of doing business, reduce logistics cost and expand frontiers of trade as a means of diversifying the economy.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator GEORGE AKUME made this known during the commissioning of the Senator GEORGE AKUME conference hall, a project by the Nigerian Shippers Council North Central Zone Jos.
The 250 standard fitted capacity hall is located in the premises of the Nigerian Shippers Council North Central Zone, Jos.
Senator AKUME explained that where infrastructure is weak, trade becomes expensive, unpredictable and inefficient hence the Federal Government is working to bridge the gap between hinterlands and seaports to ensure no part of the nation remains disconnected from global trade.
The SGF stated that the federal government was investing in systems aimed at building an economy that thrives on connectivity, efficient ports, world class logistics among others to create a globally competitive economy.
He called for partnership between government, agencies and urged communities to own the project as well as other government facilities nationwide.
Plateau State Governor CALEB MUTFWANG represented by the Deputy Governor Ngo Josephine PIYO noted that siting the Zonal office in Jos reaffirms the council’s strategic role in promoting efficient logistics, trade facilitation and economic development across the nation.
The Governor stressed that the state is blessed with vast mineral deposits, rich agricultural produce and a vibrant entrepreneurial population whose access to efficient logistics and export facilitation would be greatly enhanced through the Zonal office.
In his keynote address, National Chairman of the APC professor Nentawe Yilwatda who chaired the event, described naming of the hall after the SGF as apt.
Represented by the Deputy National Chairman South East, Emmanuel Inukwu, Professor YILWATDA noted noted that the hall would attract investors and business networks to the state thereby creating employment for citizens.
The Minister for Marine and Blue economy, ADEGBOYEGA OYETOLA represented by the Permanent secretary in the Ministry, Mr. OLORUNTAYO OLUFEMI commended the SGF for his dedication to service, said the Nigerian Shippers Council was working to ensure diversification of the economy to create equitable distribution of resources.
Earlier, Chief Executive Officer of the Council, Dr AKUTAH UJEYOMA While welcoming guests, appreciated the SGF for honouring the Council and called for support for the President and his people centred policies
There were goodwill messages from senators, members of the House of Representatives, APC chieftains and traditional rulers.
Edited by Karen keyen
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