Amid rising tensions over increased charges by foreign shipping companies operating at Nigeria’s seaports, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Pius Akutah, has called on shipping firms and freight forwarders to engage in constructive dialogue and reach a harmonious position on the implementation of the new tariffs.
Speaking with journalists in Abeokuta on the sidelines of the Council’s management retreat, Akutah emphasised that both parties must demonstrate willingness to compromise in order to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
He noted that the ongoing disagreements over the tariff increases could only be resolved through meaningful engagement guided by mutual understanding and flexibility.
According to the NSC boss, the Council had previously rejected requests by shipping companies to increase charges for two years, explaining that the current approval granted by the regulator was not necessarily aimed at boosting profits for the companies.
Akutah stressed that sustained dialogue between shipping companies and , agents remains essential to maintaining stability in the maritime sector and preventing disruptions to port operations.
“I think they need to work together more harmoniously to resolve these issues. As a regulator, we have given approval; it is left for the shipping companies and the freight forwarders to reach a harmonious position where implementation can take place”, he said.
He explained that resolving the impasse would require both sides to shift positions and adopt a “give-and-take” approach.
“Whenever there is a standstill and nobody is willing to move, then there is a problem. I am not speaking on behalf of the shipping companies or the freight forwarders, but I believe they need to work together more harmoniously to resolve these issues”, he added.
Akutah also warned that if the disagreement persists, the Council may escalate the matter to the supervising minister for further intervention.
“We cannot sit and watch this without taking steps. It will get to a point where we can escalate this to the level of the minister if they fail to resolve it”, he said.
He urged stakeholders in the maritime sector to recognise the importance of collaboration, noting that the industry operates as an interconnected ecosystem where cooperation is essential for growth and sustainability.
Akutah further noted that while stakeholders may oppose tariff increases, operational costs faced by shipping companies must also be considered to ensure the smooth functioning of the maritime sector.
“If they say there won’t be any hike in charges and at the end of the day the cost of operation has hindered them from carrying out their functions, then we will not have a maritime sector”, he said.
The NSC chief reiterated the Council’s commitment to fostering dialogue among stakeholders to ensure stability, efficiency and continued growth in Nigeria’s maritime industry.