Saves the Nigerian economy an estimated ₦4.8 billion
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) Complaints Unit has saved the Nigerian economy an estimated ₦4.8 billion. This was achieved through dispute resolution and consumer protection efforts. The outgoing head of the unit, Dr Bashir Ambi, disclosed this milestone during his formal handover on Friday.
Dr Ambi Reflects on His Tenure
Dr Ambi, who began his tenure on June 11, 2024, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. He described the savings as one of the unit’s most significant achievements. “I am proud to hand over a clean slate and a solid foundation,” he said. “We have built on the legacy we inherited, and I am confident my successor will build on this trajectory. Furthermore, we have added immense value and further establish the Complaints Unit as a benchmark of excellence within the Council.”
Smooth Transition to New Leadership
Dr Ambi handed over the Complaints Unit to Dr (Mrs) Juliana Saka, his successor. Presenting on behalf of NSC’s Executive Secretary/CEO, Dr Akutah Pius Ukeyima, he confirmed comprehensive operational documents support the transition.
The handover package includes detailed operational reports, performance records from Q3 2024, and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Other details include duty schedules, file registries, asset inventories, and updates on ongoing assignments.
Call for Innovation and Continued Excellence
Dr Ambi urged Dr Saka to introduce fresh ideas to strengthen the Complaints Unit’s role in protecting port users. In addition, the new ideas should also include ways of resolving trade disputes. “I look forward to seeing you add immense value and elevate the Complaints Unit so that it remains a primary point of reference,” he added.
Praise for Teamwork and Professionalism
Dr Ambi also lauded the Complaints Unit members for their professionalism and commitment. He subsequently encouraged them to provide full cooperation to the incoming leader.
Colleagues described Dr Ambi’s retirement as an “iconic exit”, applauding his integrity, leadership, and high standards. His stewardship significantly raised the NSC Complaints Unit’s profile and effectiveness.
Dr Saka’s Acceptance Speech
During her acceptance speech, Saka said, “I am honoured to take up the role of Head of the Complaints Unit.” Furthermore, she said, “I look forward to working with everyone to make the NSC Complaints Unit the focal point for resolving complaints in the port and shipping industry.
Assurance of Speedy Complaint Resolution
According to Dr Saka, “We will make sure that complaints are handled more quickly and lower the number of escalations. We would use each case as feedback to improve service delivery in the port and shipping sector.” Saka, the Deputy President of the Chartered Institute of Logistics Transport, CILT Nigeria and the National Secretary of Nigerian Institute of Shipping, underlined her dedication to collaborating with other unit employees . and resolving important disputes involving shippers, agents, and shipping lines.
To avoid escalation, Dr Saka pledged to improve compliance inside the unit, tighten case-management procedures, and expedite conflict resolution. She stressed that in order to enhance service delivery throughout the ports. Hence, shipping operations and complaint outcomes should be used as institutional feedback.
Dr Juliana Saka in Brief
Dr Juliana Obiageli Saka is a Senior Operations Officer in the Commercial Shipping Service Department. Consequently, her operational duties focus on shipping compliance, port monitoring, trade regulation enforcement, and expanding opportunities for women in the sector.
She holds a Doctorate degree in Transport Management from the University of Port Harcourt. Her MSc and PGD in Transport and Planning from Lagos State University, with a Higher Diploma from the foremost and prestigious Nigerian Institute of Shipping (NIS).
Furthermore, her credentials from the Arab Academy for Science, Technology & Maritime Transport in Egypt and the Galilee International Management Institute in Israel attest to her proficiency in maritime and port security. In Belgium, she received specialised training in port operations, while in South Africa, she received instruction in port regulations, compliance, and performance.
Madam Saka, as she is fondly called, also serves as Secretary of Women In Logistics and Transport (WILAT) Nigeria and secretary of the Governing Council of NIS. As a fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) and the Nigerian Institute of Shipping (NIS), Dr Saka has made significant contributions to the maritime field, as she is an active member of the Women in Maritime Association (WIMA), the International Women’s Maritime Association (IWMA) and Women in Shipping and Transport (WISTA) Nigeria.
She is the National Female Representative in the Governing Council of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport Nigeria. Currently serving as the Chief Operations Officer at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Juliana Obiageli Saka balances her professional achievements with her roles as a mother and wife. Her dedication to the maritime and logistics industry is evident in her multifaceted experience and contributions to various professional organisations.
In summary, her commitment to advancing women’s roles in the maritime sector and her strong leadership skills position her to lead the Nigerian Shippers’ Council Complaints Unit toward greater excellence and innovation.
Conclusion
Dr Bashir Ambi’s tenure at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council Complaints Unit marked significant achievements. These include saving the Nigerian economy an estimated ₦4.8 billion through effective dispute resolution and consumer protection. Building on this strong foundation, Dr Juliana Saka brings an impressive academic and professional background to the table. Additionally, her active involvement in professional and women’s maritime organisations is a strong pillar for her. Furthermore, her leadership promises continued innovation, excellence, and a strengthened commitment to protecting Nigeria’s ports and trade users.
