The Nigerian Shippers’ Council has called for renewed dialogue among port stakeholders after ordering a halt to the implementation of newly introduced shipping tariffs, ENigeria Newspaper has gathered.
The Nigeria Shippers’ Council’s call for dialogue followed its decision to suspend the tariff hike, a move aimed at easing tensions and creating room for broader consultations within the maritime sector.
Dr. Akutah Pius, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Shippers’ Council, in response to freight forwarders picketing Mediterranean Shipping Company’s (MSC) offices in protest of a recent rise in shipping line prices, issued this call.
Despite the demonstrations, the council’s attempt to hold talks with the irate freight forwarders was met with resistance since the demonstrators maintained that there was no foundation for communication.
The Nigeria Shippers’ Council’s intervention comes amid escalating resistance from freight forwarders, as the regulator seeks to stabilise operations through engagement rather than enforcement alone.
“In order to safeguard fair competition, transparency, and sectoral stability, the council considers it necessary to halt further implementation pending the conclusion of comprehensive consultations and regulatory review,” the council said.
It stressed that operators “are mandated to revert to, and apply strictly, the tariff regime that was in force immediately prior to the said increase.” The council also warned that “any deviation from this directive shall constitute a breach of regulatory compliance and will attract appropriate sanctions in line with extant laws and regulations.”
The suspension followed protests by freight agents in Apapa, Lagos, where activities at major shipping companies were disrupted over the planned increase in charges.
Demonstrators had earlier insisted that there would be no engagement with authorities unless the tariff adjustment was reversed, effectively stalling initial attempts at dialogue.
“The council will, upon conclusion of stakeholder consultations and internal review processes, communicate a definitive position on the matter,” it added.
Reaffirming its regulatory mandate, the council noted its commitment to ensuring fairness and efficiency across the maritime value chain.
“All operators are hereby enjoined to ensure strict and immediate compliance,” the statement concluded.
