Joyce Mmereole Okoli
Amid ongoing debates over the planned introduction of the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN), the Maritime Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has announced a decisive roundtable discussion aimed at addressing industry concerns and charting a clear path forward.
The high-profile event, scheduled for Thursday, February 27, 2025, will take place at the MARAN International Press Center in Apapa, bringing together key stakeholders to dissect the controversies surrounding the ICTN and propose lasting solutions.
Among the notable industry experts expected at the event are Dr. Eugene Nweke of the Sea Empowerment and Research Center (SEREC) and Dr. Segun Musa, Managing Director of Widescope Group, who will deliver key addresses on the subject. Dr. Alban Igwe of the Importers Association of Nigeria and a representative from the Shippers’ Association Lagos State (SALS) will also be in attendance.
Crucially, two government agencies directly involved in the ICTN project will provide insights into the initiative:
– The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), which currently oversees the ICTN, will present a paper titled *”Prospects and Challenges of the Proposed ICTN: NSC’s Perspective.”*
– The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the former custodian of the project, will offer its views in a presentation titled “Prospects and Challenges of the Proposed ICTN: NPA’s Perspective.”
MARAN President, Mr. Godfrey Bivbere, emphasized the urgency of resolving the controversy surrounding the ICTN, noting that the issue has sharply divided stakeholders.
“Since the news of the planned reintroduction of the ICTN filtered out, there have been widespread controversies from both proponents and opponents, each justifying their stance.”
“As the leading maritime beat association in Nigeria and in line with our advocacy role, MARAN has decided to bring all contending parties under one roof to settle this issue once and for all. Our goal is to move forward and develop the maritime sector, which is critical to the nation’s economy,” Bivbere stated.