**Port Regulatory Framework Gets a Boost as Reps Tackle NPERA Bill** The House of Representatives has finally addressed the long-standing issues in the Nigeria Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) Bill, paving the way for a stronger port economic regulatory framework. This development is music to the ears of stakeholders in the maritime sector, who have been clamoring for reforms to boost the efficiency of Nigeria's ports. According to Dr. Pius Akutah, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), the amended bill will provide the necessary statutory backing for the council to reposition itself for its expanded mandate. This, in turn, will strengthen Nigeria's ports and position the country to compete favorably in the global maritime arena. The NSC has also made significant strides in improving the welfare of its staff. The proposed salary review for council workers has received approval from the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. This is a welcome development, considering the current economic challenges facing the country. In addition to the salary review, the council has introduced several welfare improvements, including an upward review of the children's education grant per term, introduction of health and social club allowances, and introduction of proficiency allowances to encourage professional development. Dr. Akutah has also emphasized the need for directors and heads of units to drive institutional transformation, rather than just administering departments. He believes that this transformation requires stronger collaboration across departments and units, greater innovation in the way technology and regulatory tools are deployed, and an uncompromising commitment to excellence in service delivery and institutional performance. The council has made significant strides in this regard, with the successful launch of the Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS), a digital platform designed to strengthen document management, workflow automation, and institutional record management. This is a major milestone in the council's journey toward building a modern, efficient, and paperless administrative system. In conclusion, the passage of the NPERA bill and the welfare improvements introduced by the NSC are significant steps in the right direction. These developments will go a long way in boosting the efficiency of Nigeria's ports and positioning the country to compete favorably in the global maritime arena.