The Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi has lauded the management of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) at the establishment of an Ultra-Modern Marine and Harbour Simulation Centre at Dockyard Apapa.
Addressing stakeholders at the commissioning of the centre, the minister said the feat would save the federal government foreign exchange that would have been used in training personnel abroad just like it is a statement that government is desirous of encouraging local content in other to grow the economy.
Amaechi said, it is a testament that we are attaining the status of the desired Maritime destination of choice and this facility would attract professionals within and outside the country he added. He commended the inter agency collaboration within the sector and urged its continuity for greater dividend.
Earlier in her address, the Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala Usman stated that the commissioning of the centre signals the federal government’s preparedness and firm resolve at competing in the global maritime space. She informed stakeholders that the marine and harbours ultra-modern simulation centre is expected to engender greater operational efficiency in the activities of the organization with the expectant patronage within Africa and indeed globally.
The management, she stated, would be glad at seeing that the facility is put into good use by all at all times because the Authority pays high premium on the capacity of its personnel to be the best at their schedules and various duties in other to respond to greater operational challenges.
Furthermore, Usman told stakeholders that the commissioning of the Centre is part of the Authority’s strategic positioning and intent at becoming the leading powers in Port services in Africa and beyond.
