The National Shippers Association of Nigeria (NSAN) has rejected the recent increase in port service charges approved by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), citing concerns over flawed consultation and potential inflationary impacts.
NSAN alleges shippers and maritime sector stakeholders were excluded from required consultations, contrary to the NSC Act. The association warns higher charges could increase import costs, worsen inflation, and hurt businesses already facing high costs.
“We trust the NSC will act with fairness,” said NSAN Acting President Alhaji Jamilu M. Goma. NSAN calls for suspending the new charges pending inclusive stakeholder talks on tariff reviews.
The NSC counters it acted within its mandate as Port Economic Regulator. It had directed port service providers to halt tariff hikes pending stakeholder engagement, warning of action against disruptions.