Joyce Mmereole Okoli
Maritime stakeholders are set to gather this Thursday, February 27, 2025, for a crucial roundtable discussion on the controversial International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN), recently reintroduced by the Federal Government.
The event, organized by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN), will take place at the MARAN Secretariat in Apapa GRA, Lagos, starting at 10:00 AM.
Key industry players, including the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), are expected to make presentations on the ICTN.
Other stakeholders, such as the Shippers’ Association of Lagos State, the Importers’ Association of Nigeria, the Sea Empowerment Research Centre, and Dr. Segun Musa, Managing Director of Widescope Group, will also be present to deliberate on the policy’s impact and seek common ground for its implementation.
MARAN President Godfrey Bivbere emphasized the importance of the roundtable, stating that the ICTN has been a source of division within the maritime sector.
“Since the news of the planned reintroduction of the ICTN emerged, there have been widespread controversies from both supporters and opponents, each defending their stance,”
“As the leading maritime beat association in Nigeria, MARAN is taking the initiative to bring all stakeholders together to resolve these issues and drive the development of our sector, which is critical to the nation’s economy,” Bievbere noted.
Industry players and guest speakers have confirmed their attendance, signaling a strong interest in resolving the lingering concerns surrounding the ICTN.
The roundtable is expected to provide a platform for constructive dialogue and a pathway to a more seamless policy implementation.