1 week Ago By Guardian Nigeria
NLNG Shipping and Marine Services Limited (NSML) has announced the launch of its SmartPort initiative aimed at spearheading a technological revolution in Nigeria. Speaking to journalists in Lagos on the company’s innovation strategy, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of NSML, Abdulkadir Ahmed, disclosed plans to host a workshop in the coming months to implement a single-window system for port clearance, in alignment with the Minister of the Blue Economy’s vision. He said the SmartPort system would fully digitise import and export document processing, ensuring seamless compliance with international standards and removing bureaucratic bottlenecks that traditionally slow down port operations.
“The single-window system will streamline port operations by enabling government agencies to complete vessel clearance processes digitally. This will eliminate unnecessary delays, improve turnaround times, and ease pressure on both our management teams and stakeholders,” Ahmed said. In addition to SmartPort, Ahmed said NSML has gained industry recognition for its Silk Pilot system, a state-of-the-art piloting solution tailored to today’s vessels’ increasing size and complexity.
He explained that the system leverages real-time operational insights, equipping vessel operators with data needed to make swift, accurate navigational decisions, ultimately improving safety and reducing the risk of incidents during port entry. “The more accurate data we have, the more effectively we can manage vessel movements and optimise operations,” he said. “ Ahmed also revealed that the company has made significant progress in integrating cutting-edge technologies into its operations by developing a system in Africa that ensures operational balance and environmental responsibility.
“This year, we introduced pipeline visibility and real-time operational tracking through our Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS). It gives us a comprehensive view of vessel movements—where they are, where they’re headed, and what’s approaching them,” Ahmed said. He said at the core of NSML’s strategy is an unwavering commitment to human capital development, noting that the company has doubled down on training and innovation with the technical expertise needed to operate LNG carriers.
Ahmed said, in addition, NSML recently secured accreditation for the Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS) and Basic Liquefied Gas Tanker Operations, further equipping its personnel for global competitiveness. He mentioned another hallmark of NSML’s workforce development strategy, which is the steam-to-motor conversion programme, a hands-on training initiative enabling engineers to transition from steam propulsion systems to more modern motor-powered vessels. “We’ve been running this programme for three years.
It combines classroom learning with onboard experience. 40 engineers have completed the course so far, positioning them for leadership roles in a fast-changing maritime sector,” Ahmed said..
