_"Funtua Inland Dry Port Commissioned: A Boost to Nigeria's Economic Growth"_
The Federal Government of Nigeria has commissioned the Funtua Inland Dry Port in Katsina State, marking a significant milestone in the country's economic development. The port was commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on May 9, 2024, at the Funtua IDP Project Site, in the presence of dignitaries, government officials, and industry stakeholders.
The Funtua Inland Dry Port is the third inland dry port commissioned by the Federal Government, following the Kaduna Inland Dry Port in 2018 and the Dala Inland Dry Port in 2023. The port is expected to bring shipping and port services closer to importers and exporters in the hinterland, decongest the seaports, create job opportunities, and generate revenue for the government.
According to the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers' Council (NSC), Barr. Pius Ukeyima Akutah, the establishment of the inland dry ports is a key performance indicator (KPI) for the council. He noted that the Funtua Inland Dry Port will facilitate trade in Nigeria and improve the country's economic growth. The port will also reduce the cost and time of doing business, increase efficiency, and enhance the overall competitiveness of Nigerian businesses.
The commissioning of the Funtua Inland Dry Port is a testament to the Federal Government's commitment to developing the country's transportation infrastructure and promoting economic growth. The port is expected to be a game-changer for Nigeria's economy, and its commissioning marks a significant achievement for the Federal Government.
In February 2023, the Federal Government declared Funtua IDP as a Port of Origin and Destination, paving the way for importers and exporters to officially consign their cargo from Funtua to any part of the world. This development is expected to increase trade volumes, reduce congestion at the seaports, and boost economic activities in the region.
The Funtua Inland Dry Port is strategically located to serve the economic interests of the North-West region and neighboring countries. It is expected to attract significant investment, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the region. The port will also provide a platform for Nigerian businesses to access global markets and compete favorably with their counterparts worldwide.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; the Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Umar Radda; and the Chairman of the Nigerian Shippers' Council, Barr. Pius Ukeyima Akutah, among others.
In his remarks, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu commended the Nigerian Shippers' Council and other stakeholders for their efforts in making the Funtua Inland Dry Port a reality. He emphasized the importance of the port in promoting economic growth and development in the region and urged the private sector to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the port.
With the commissioning of the Funtua Inland Dry Port, Nigeria has taken a significant step towards becoming a major player in the global economy. The port is expected to be a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and increased trade volumes, and its impact will be felt for generations to come.
0 Comments