The Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, Port Harcourt has urged seafarers to be more committed and embrace good virtue in carrying out their duties at the sea.
The Port Manager, Mallam Abubakar G. Umar, said this during the formalization visit by the Nigerian Fellowship of Christian Seafarers in his office in Port Harcourt.
Represented by Engr Uche Okoroafor, Mallam Umar promised to Support the Nigeria Fellowship of Christian Seafarers to enable them render good and valuable services in their duty. He said the Port authority is pleased with the visit and formation of the fellowship of Seafarers.
He expressed optimism that the organization will actually mould the members who are perceived to be engaged in all kinds of activities.
The NPA Port Manager further explained that the Port Harcourt Port which is one of the oldest in the country is over 100years, adding that “the Port handles general goods, petroleum products, bulk items including salt, coal, etc”.
He further said “We export palm kernels and other items through the Port and jetties at Aka base, Rumuolumeni and others”.
“We have department that handles waste from the ship, dogyard, Human resources etc.”
However, he advised the group to demonstrate the Christian virtue even while on the vessels and to show exemplary life for other crew members to emulate. He commended their praying spirit and urged them not to relent or be distracted, assuring them of the management’s cooperation and support he also promised to assist retired Seafarers and their families.
Earlier, the National Coordinator of the fellowship, Joshua Oyetunde, said the purpose of the visit was to familiarize themselves with the authorities of the Port, which he said was part of activities marking the second National Anniversary Celebrations of the Organization.
He explained that the objective of the fellowship was to connect all sea Fearers on all the ships and vessels and to be a prophetic voice over the maritime seafarers.
He further explained that currently over 150 members are connected to pray for security and safety on the sea and at the ports, as well as praying for the authorities and other stakeholders of the maritime industry.
The group thanked the NPA for the opportunity to meet with them and hope to continue the relationship.
