The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has issued a firm directive to all shipping companies, agents, and terminal operators across Nigerian ports to immediately suspend any planned or recently announced increases in charges until comprehensive stakeholder consultation takes place.
The order follows intense protests by freight forwarders and clearing agents on Monday and Tuesday, which included the temporary shutdown of operations at Mediterranean Shipping Company’s (MSC) office in Apapa.
The demonstrations were triggered by MSC’s unilateral upward adjustment of several key fees.Among the increases that sparked outrage were:
Import Documentation Fee: 20ft containers rose from ₦45,000 to ₦58,500; 40ft containers from ₦72,000 to ₦93,600
Port additional charges: 20ft containers increased from ₦50,000 to ₦80,000; 40ft containers from ₦100,000 to ₦160,000
In a statement released by the Head of Public Relations, Rebecca Ada, the NSC explained that while the recent tariff adjustments were processed and approved in line with its statutory role as port economic regulator, including technical reviews, cost evaluations, and consideration of economic conditions, the implementation cannot proceed without proper engagement of all relevant stakeholders.
The Council stressed that stakeholder consultation is a mandatory and non-negotiable part of the regulatory process.
It reiterated its commitment to transparency, fairness, and inclusive decision-making in the regulation of port services.
Dr. Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the NSC, issued a strong warning that the Council will not hesitate to apply appropriate sanctions, including any enforcement measures available under existing regulatory frameworks against any service provider that disregards the suspension order or disrupts port operations.
The directive aims to restore calm in the maritime sector, protect importers and exporters from sudden cost escalations, and encourage constructive dialogue between service providers and port users.
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council has positioned itself as ready to wield its regulatory authority decisively to maintain order and equity at the nation’s seaports.
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