The Managing Director of Ports & Cargo Handling Services Limited, John Jenkins, has expressed concerns over the prolonged delay in renewing the company’s port concession, which expired a few years ago.
Jenkins said despite meeting all necessary terms for renewal, the process has been stalled since 2021, causing operational instability, customer uncertainty, and hindering new business opportunities.
During a courtesy visit by Bashir Ambi Mohammed, Head of Complaints Unit at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Jenkins highlighted the impact of the delay on Ports & Cargo’s terminal operations.
He emphasised the company’s commitment to exceptional service delivery, trade facilitation, job creation, and social responsibility, but noted that the concession renewal delay has affected customer confidence and hindered long-term agreements.
He said: “Ports & Cargo remains one of the leading terminal operators in Nigeria with our record of exceptional service delivery, trade facilitation, many jobs created, and diverse social responsibility footprints across the country. This delay in our concession renewal has tremendously affected our terminal, as our customers are worried about the future of their operations here. Without a new concession in place, they are hesitant to enter into long-term agreements, which is not good for our business.”
Mohammed acknowledged the terminal’s contributions to the industry and nation, and assured that the Nigerian Shippers’ Council would use its influence to expedite the approval process.
He emphasised the Council’s objective of ensuring prompt and fair resolution of complaints and adding value to the nation’s economy through effective regulation and collaboration with service providers.
