By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

The Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) has revealed that the Kaduna Dry Port processed and cleared over 500 containers within the last three months.

The Council emphasized that once the railway becomes fully operational, the dry port could receive and clear more than 1,000 containers.

Speaking to journalists after a maritime industry sensitization session at the ongoing 46th Kaduna International Trade Fair, Buba Danjuma, Deputy Director of the Kaduna Port Office of the NSC, highlighted the port’s growing capacity.

“We’ve received and cleared over 500 containers in three months at Kaduna Dry Port, which is a commendable effort. If the railway becomes fully operational, we could handle more than a thousand containers,” he said.

Boosting Trade Through Inland Dry Ports

Danjuma explained that the Kaduna Dry Port, officially recognized as a port of origin and destination, plays a crucial role in facilitating exports and imports from Kaduna to destinations across the world.

He emphasized the NSC’s efforts to establish dry ports in inland regions without direct sea access, enhancing trade, supporting regional economic growth, and providing an alternative to traditional seaports.

“The Shippers Council is working to establish more dry ports in Nigeria. These facilities will ease congestion at traditional seaports and facilitate faster cargo delivery,” he stated.

Establishing Border Information Centres

Danjuma also revealed that the NSC has established Border Information Centres at key locations, including Idi Iroko, Jibia, and Illela.

“These centres provide essential information and support to shippers, helping them navigate international trade complexities,” he explained.

Awareness and Trade Facilitation

Danjuma, who also serves as the Deputy Director of the Kaduna Port Office, stressed the importance of awareness campaigns to educate businesses and stakeholders about the role of the Shippers Council.

“On behalf of the Management of the Nigerian Shippers Council and the Executive Secretary, Mr. Pius Okehima, we are committed to sensitizing people about what the Shippers Council does. That’s why we organized an awareness clinic,” he said.

He noted that many traders face challenges because they lack adequate knowledge of the Council’s role in trade facilitation.

“The Shippers Council is here to guide them, especially in handling their trade correspondences,” he added.

Kaduna Trade Fair Participation

Danjuma assured that the Shippers Council will continue to participate in the Kaduna Trade Fair, describing it as a vital platform to engage with stakeholders and create awareness.

“The Trade Fair is an excellent opportunity to connect with stakeholders. It allows us to spread awareness about the Kaduna Dry Port’s capacity and encourage businesses to take advantage of its services,” he noted.

Railway Development and Future Prospects

Highlighting the Federal Government’s efforts to revive the railway system, Danjuma expressed optimism about the future of cargo transportation in Kaduna.

“Once the railway is fully operational, the volume of cargo coming into and leaving Kaduna will increase significantly. Imagine the level of trade that will take place,” he remarked.

He reaffirmed that the Kaduna Dry Port is open to all Nigerians, offering seamless services for exporters looking to ship goods to international destinations.

“With a functional railway system, Kaduna Dry Port will transform into a major trade hub,” he concluded.