Sequel to earlier suspension of any tariff hike by shipping companies, shipping agents and terminal operators, the Nigerian Shippers Council NSC, the country’s Economic Regulator for the port industry has restated its earlier directive that stakeholders must be widely consulted with before any tariff hike is carried out.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting on tariff review convened by the Council at its headquarters in Lagos, Executive Secretary/CEO of the Council, Dr. Pius Akutah, MON, emphasised the need for shipping companies operating at the nation’s seaports to consult widely with relevant stakeholders before implementing any tariff adjustments.

“Inclusive engagement remains critical to effective port regulation”, the CEO, who was represented by the Director Consumer Affairs, Mrs. Ify Okolue, said.

Dr. Akutah further stressed that sustained dialogue with industry players is essential to maintaining order within the port system, aligning Nigeria’s ports with global best practices, and protecting the interests of port users and the national economy.

In attendance at the well -attended meeting included the Importers Association of Nigeria IMAN, the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry LCCI, and the Maritime and Freight Forwarders Unit of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture NACCIMA.

Other include the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents ANLCA, the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders NAGAFF, the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents NCMDLCA, and the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics APFFLON, as well as representatives of Terminal Operators and Shipping Association of Nigeria SAN, the umbrella association for all the shipping companies operating in Nigeria.