By Abimbola Abdullahi
The Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Ms Hadiza Bala Usman, has for the second time been elected Vice-Chairman of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Facilitation (FAL) Committee.
The latest election took place during the closing of the 44th Session of the Facilitation Committee (FAL 44), which held virtually between September 28 and October 2, 2020.
The Facilitation Committee addresses the efficiency of shipping by dealing with matters related to enabling international maritime traffic, including the arrival, stay and departure of ships, persons and cargo from ports.
The committee also ensures that the right balance is struck between maritime security and the facilitation of international maritime trade.
Responding to her re-election, Bala Usman described it as an honour to Nigeria. She promised to work with the Chair and the IMO Secretariat in realising the lofty objectives of the FAL Committee and the IMO.
The NPA boss praised chair of the committee, Ms Marina Angsell from Sweden for her leadership. She also thanked the IMO Secretary-General and the committee for re-electing her to serve.
The IMO is the United Nations agency responsible for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of pollution by ships.
Bala Usman is also Vice President, African Region of the International Association of Harbour and Ports (IAPH).
