The Federal Government receives an appeal from Dr. Marcel Ofomata, Chairman of Amaecom Group, to take swift action in passing legislation that will improve port efficiency.
He underlined the significance of providing a favorable environment for exporters and importers and called upon regulatory bodies to fulfill their responsibilities with diligence.
The delivery of these appeals took place over the weekend at the official inauguration of the Amaecom Group’s headquarters in NAF Valley Estate, Abuja.
Calling attention to the dire economic condition, Ofomata noted, ‘It is glaring to the face of everyone. Times are hard. Exchange rate has made life and business not worth it.’
Understanding the pivotal role of ports in a country’s economic development, he accentuated the importance of their well-designed infrastructure and the policies that govern their operations.
‘The ports hold a very significant position in the economy of every country. They determine what comes into the county, so if there are wrong policies around ports, we are already in trouble,’ he said.
Read also: Ndigbo Must Demand The Resuscitation Of Oseakwa Seaport
In addition to his previous points, Ofomata stressed the importance of improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the regulatory bodies responsible for monitoring goods’ quality.
He voiced his objections to the surging expenses related to the clearance of goods at the ports.
‘The charges at the ports are not helping us. So much money that has been spent on clearing has increased drastically by 500% in the past few years,’ he added.
Ofomata brought to light that the cost of clearing a container has shot up to approximately N5 million, marking a substantial rise from the earlier range of one to two million naira.
Stepping away from the subject of ports, Dr. Ofomata highlighted the significant growth and diversification achieved by the Amaecom Group.
From its modest beginnings as a supplier of traditional market items, Amaecom’s growth has been extraordinary, as it diversified into manufacturing and expanded its influence with a multitude of brands and subsidiaries.
While looking back on the journey, Ofomata pointed out the significant metamorphosis of the company, which began with a single brand in Akwa Ibom State and has now flourished into a conglomerate, with its headquarters in the Federal Capital Territory.