The Shippers’ Association Lagos State(SALS) wants the Federal Government to give manufacturing industries more concessions on duty waivers.
The President of the association, Rev Jonathan Nicol disclosed this during the First Shippers’ (importers and exports) Day celebration held in Lagos on Friday .
He said the association would vigorously pursue exportation of agro-allied products and would encourage local manufacturing industries.
“Imports will continue to come but agriculture and exportation of agro-allied products would be promoted.
“We (shippers) support the revamping and construction of cottage refineries and for the by-products to be exported.
“Clearance of cargo will be more scientific and cost effective,’’ He said.
According to him, industries should be able to overcome their heavy financial burden, in clearing their raw materials.
He recalled that the association was formed over nine years ago, primarily to protect the interest of shippers, protect their investments and act as a pressure group.
He however stressed that the association in a few years’ time, we will achieve an enviable status as problem of members would have been solved at least 90 per cent when the New Port Order comes into manifestation.
“Industries will overcome their heavy financial burden in clearing their raw materials,’’ NAN quotes Nicol as saying.
He suggested that the 33 mineral resources of the nation should be properly used to improve revenue.
“In the early 70’s, Nigeria’s crude oil was sold at 13 dollars per barrel; three dollars was saved, while 10 dollars was used for budgetary purposes.
“We suggest that 10 dollars be set aside for our reserves which should not be shared, ‘’the shipper said.
Nicol called for the resuscitation of the Price Control Board, pointing out that emphasis must be on aggressive farming in all states; warehousing and preservation of agricultural products.
“Shippers’ Association is available to act as an instrument of hope in all segments of the maritime community; encourage ownership of vessels by Nigerians; and reintroduce barges for evacuation of cargo.
“We need all to support the objective of the Shippers’ Association to lay the foundation for a veritable and trusted rail track toward a total economic freedom.
“In this process, government will be approached to relax levies on exportable items; simplify cargo clearing process and make farming implements duty free.
“Shippers across the country and outside, especially in Cotonou, will be reached and made to relocate to Nigeria,’’ Nicol said.
“Shippers will hold conferences and workshops at least two times in a year until we form the Federation of Nigerian Shippers’ Association (FONSA),’’ Nicol said.