By Lucia Akinfemi
The Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Sambo, has said that the Electronic Cargo tracking Note scheme is meant to block revenue leakages and provide transparency in cargo invoicing.
This is contained in a statement made available to newsmen in Lagos.
Sambo was quoted to have spoken at the investiture ceremony and inauguration of the 7th President of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, Mr Aminu Umar.
“We got approval for a cargo tracking scheme for all imports and exports across all borders, Land and Sea.
“The Electronic Cargo tracking Note which is an official marine waiver certificate document required by several African countries to effectively control and manage import/export traffic has come to stay.
“This scheme will block revenue leakages and provide transparency in cargo invoicing,” he said.
The minister, noted that the implementation of the scheme would abet the problem of under-declaration, concealment and wrong classification of cargo.
He said there was no going back on the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF)
“Against all odds, we got the Presidential approval to disburse the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund and all was set to commence in the first week of April through the selected financial institution in line with the Cabotage Act and approved Regulations.
“The disbursement of the fund is however delayed due to an inquiry from the House of Representatives.
“You will agree with me that their stand is a welcome development and it is in line with the standard practice of inquiry and due diligence.
“My team has been meeting with the members of the House to harmonise perspectives which will lead to the disbursement of the funds in the coming days. No going back,” he said.
Sambo, noted that the unique position attained by the chamber in the Nigerian maritime industry as a bridge between stakeholders and policy makers had made them the first African member organisation to be admitted into the board of the International Chamber of Shipping.
He said that the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping would always have his support and by extension that of the Federal Ministry of Transportation.
He said the humility, unassuming mien and endearing disposition displayed constantly by Alhaji Aminu Umar was worthy of commendation, adding that the chamber would prosper under his watch.
“I know with the impeccable team you have, you will make an indelible mark as team work makes the dream work.
“Together we can do much. The success of the team inaugurated today will be achieved through collaboration, among many other factors.
“Change the narrative, build on the achievements of your predecessors and make the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping an enviable organization,’ ‘he said.
