But for the timely intervention of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council NSC, the country’s Economic Regulator for the port industry, the entire supply chain would have been thrown into a major crisis that stakeholders feared, would have been devastating not just for the industry, but for the entire national economy.

Recall that freight forwarders and some other relevant stakeholders were spoiling for a showdown over the recent 600 per cent increase in terminal and other rent-related charges by the concessionaires, which was also induced by the current realities in the cost of doing business in the country.

The looming imbroglio was however resolved at a meeting summoned at the instance of the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Council, Hon Emmanuel Jime, Tuesday, where stakeholders unanimously approved a 400 per cent increase as against the former 600 per cent. The meeting followed complaints, protests and petitions to the Council over the increase.

A communique issued after the meeting, which held at the Apapa headquarters of the NSC reads in part: “A meeting was held today, October 24th, 2023, at the Shippers Council Hall, involving the Nigerian Slippers Council, shipping companies, terminal operators, and relevant associations/stakeholders. The purpose of the meeting was to address various issues and reach a resolution. The following resolutions were agreed upon:

“The number of free days for cargo storage at the terminals has been increased from three days to five days. This will provide more flexibility for shippers and reduce costs.

“The previously proposed 600per cent increase in terminal charges has been reduced to 400per cent. This adjustment aims to strike a balance between the needs of the terminal operators and the shippers.

“Break bulk cargo charges have been increased from 125per cent to 250per cent. This adjustment reflects the changing dynamics of the industry and ensures fair compensation for services provided.

“All complaints regarding inefficiencies by the terminal operators will be addressed immediately. This commitment aims to improve overall operations and enhance customer satisfaction.

“The Shippers Council has established a complaints desk at all ports. This dedicated desk will ensure that issues raised by stakeholders are resolved promptly and efficiently.

“Boxes that arrived prior to October 16th will be rated with the old rates. This provision aims to avoid any confusion or discrepancies in billing.

“Further discussions between the terminal operators and the Shippers Council will continue to refine and improve the processes. This ongoing dialogue will ensure that the interests of all parties are considered and addressed.

“The above resolutions will take effect immediately. All parties involved have agreed to abide by these resolutions and work collaboratively until further notice”.

Spokesperson for the Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria STOAN, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, while reacting to the resolutions during a telephone conversation with our correspondent, described it as “a good development and win-win for Nigeria”, adding that it is all about give and take.

While commending the Council for providing leadership in the industry over the years, Akinola noted that the maritime industry is one big family and would remain one, adding that amicable resolution of issues or disputes was better than resorting to shutdowns.

“In all, it is all about Nigeria and Nigerians and not any particular individual or group. Our priority always should be to help our government generate maximum revenue from the industry while Nigerians also derive maximum benefits from the maritime industry, that should be the goal of everyone”, he also said.