Foreign Exchange Disrupting Import Volumes in Nigeria – Terminal boss

By Obiabin Onukwugha, Port Harcourt

Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of ENL Consortium, Princess Vicky Haastrup Has said that the foreign exchange challenges facing the economy has led to a drastic reduction in the volume of importation and import activities at the port.

Heastrup spoke, when she received the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola at the Terminals C and D, recently.

The ministers visited the Terminal C and D, Lagos Port Complex Apapa as part of his tour to Ports.

Haastrup, who updated the Minister on operations at the terminal, lamented low activities due to dwindling importation of essential commodities including rice and fish.

Haastrup, who doubles as the Chairman of the Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN), also informed the Minister that her company has the largest number of dockworkers at the port.

While reiterating support for the Marine and Blue Economy Minister, described the maritime industry as huge, with enormous opportunities capable of generating more revenue into the coffers of the Federal Government, if we’ll harnessed.

She said ENL Consortium, with more than 2,000 dockworkers in its employ, is set to increase its investment at the port as soon as all necessary approvals are obtained.

Responding, the Minister commended the Management of ENL Consortium. He also promised support for indigenous terminal operators to boost their activities.

He assured that government would take prompt action on dilapidated quay aprons and port access roads to facilitate the smooth flow of cargoes.