The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has urged maritime stakeholders to back the passage of the Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill 2023, emphasizing its importance in reforming the sector.
Speaking at the 2024 annual conference and awards of the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) in Lagos, NSC Executive Secretary/CEO, Barr. Akutah Pius, represented by the Director of Strategic Planning and Research, Rotimi Anifowose, described the bill as a cornerstone for improving port efficiency, promoting fair trade practices, and enhancing Nigeria’s maritime competitiveness.
“For a country focused on the Renewed Hope Agenda in the maritime sector, we must prioritize the role of a port economic regulator,” Pius said. “When passed into law, this bill will empower the Council to enforce compliance, regulate charges, and address port inefficiencies, ensuring Nigeria takes its place as a regional shipping hub.”
The proposed law aims to eliminate exploitative practices, fast-track dispute resolution, and position Nigeria’s ports for global best practices. According to Pius, the bill has already advanced through concurrent legislative processes in the National Assembly.
“We need collective effort to see this bill signed into law by the President. It is critical to realizing the Renewed Hope Agenda for our industry. Effective trade facilitation and port regulation cannot be achieved without structured frameworks,” he added.
Highlighting the NSC’s strides, Pius noted key milestones, including, Signing a formal bond with the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in May 2024. Facilitating the commissioning of the Funtua Inland Dry Port. Negotiating improved service standards for maritime workers. Developing a mobile app to provide real-time shipping and logistics information.
He also addressed concerns about cargo diversion, citing Lome Port’s high traffic of Nigeria-bound cargo. “If not 90 percent, 85 percent of the cargo in Lome is Nigeria-bound. We must create a conducive environment to restore confidence in our ports and reduce capital flight,” he said.
Pius further called on the Nigeria Customs Service to enhance revenue generation by fostering a business-friendly port system.
“This reform is not just for the NSC. It is for the benefit of all stakeholders—importers, exporters, Customs, and the nation at large. Let us support this bill to unlock the full potential of our maritime industry,” he concluded.
