The federal government yesterday commended the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) for seeking technical guidance from the International Maritime Organisation, IMO, in the development of the Port Community System (PCS) report, saying that its implementation would enhance the ease of doing business at the nation's seaports.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, gave the commendation while formally receiving the report for the implementation of the PCS in Nigeria.

Oyetola disclosed that the implementation of the PCS was a Key Performance Indicator given to his ministry by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and that its adoption would position Nigeria to benefit from global trade opportunities.

While assuring that he would play a leading role in achieving the objectives of the initiative, Oyetola urged the NPA to expedite the procurement process for appointing a company to deploy the PCS and to seek ministerial intervention where necessary, particularly in areas outside their jurisdiction, such as linkages with the Nigerian Customs Service and other relevant agencies.

He also commended the team from IMO, project consultants, and the International Port Community Systems Association (IPCSA) for their professionalism and dedication in coming up with the PCS report.

Also speaking at the occasion, the Managing Director/CEO of NPA, Mohammed Bello Koko, said automation remains the most sustainable path to make ports in Nigeria more efficient and competitive, adding that, "The implementation of the PCS would eliminate all forms of human interface and attendant delays that undermine the efficiency of our ports."

Recalled that the NPA MD had recently sought and secured the buy-in of the Comptroller General of Nigerian Customs, Mr Adewale Bashir Adeniyi, MFR, for the implementation of the PCS.