Worried by challenges associated with rising operational cost in the shipping industry and the need to further stimulate Nigeria’s economic growth, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, has convened a high-level meeting with industry stakeholders to address this pressing challenges of rising operational costs in the sector.

This escalating costs have also led to increased shipping expenses, which underscored recent call by the operators for a comprehensive review of their tariffs in line with current economic realities.

Speaking at the one-day event held in Apapa, Lagos, Executive Secretary/CEO of the Council, Barr Pius Ukeyima Akutah, described the stakeholders’ engagement as a strategic move to foster collaboration among key industry experts, with the ultimate goal of strengthening the sector and positively impacting the national economy.

Executive Secretary/CEO, Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Barr Pius Ukeyima Akutah,, addressing stakeholders at the event.

He assured participants that the meeting’s outcome would drive economic sustainability while safeguarding stakeholders’ interests.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the Shipping Lines Association of Nigeria SAN, Boma Alabi, SAN, who also spoke at the event, acknowledged the crucial role of the Council and urged swift intervention regarding new tariffs and charges that may impact service delivery.

The gathering brought together representatives from shipping companies, terminal operators, freight forwarders, consolidators, truckers, shippers’ associations, manufacturers’ associations, and government agencies. These industry players exchanged insights on improving service delivery and ensuring efficiency within the sector.