Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council has ordered all shipping lines and their agents to immediately halt the implementation of recently approved tariffs across Nigeria’s port and shipping sector, in a move aimed at easing pressure on port users and stabilising the maritime environment.
The management directive comes amid rising concerns from industry stakeholders over the timing, structure, and possible ripple effects of the new charges on Nigeria’s already fragile logistics and trade value chain.
Acting in its statutory role as the sector’s economic regulator, the Council said the suspension was necessary to safeguard fair competition, ensure transparency, and maintain industry stability while broader consultations continue.
All affected operators have been instructed to revert to the previous tariff regime, with the Council warning that any defiance would constitute a breach of regulatory compliance and attract sanctions under existing laws.
Industry analysts say the intervention reflects the regulator’s sensitivity to stakeholder feedback at a time when cost pressures, operational bottlenecks, and volatile market conditions continue to shape port activities.
The Council added that a final position on the tariff review will be announced after ongoing engagements and internal assessments are completed, reaffirming its commitment to protecting cargo owners’ interests and ensuring an efficient, balanced maritime transport system.