The National Shippers Association of Nigeria has rejected the recent increase in port service charges approved by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, warning that the move could raise trade costs and worsen inflationary pressures across the economy.
The association raised concerns following a maritime stakeholders’ meeting, arguing that the tariff adjustments were introduced without proper consultation with key industry players, as required under the Nigerian Shippers’ Council Act.
Shippers said the changes could significantly affect import landing costs at a time when businesses and consumers are already facing elevated operating and living expenses.
Speaking after the meeting, the association said the process leading to the new charges was flawed and failed to adequately involve shippers and other critical stakeholders in the maritime value chain.
In response, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council defended the adjustments, stating that they were approved in line with its statutory role as the Port Economic Regulator.
The Head of Public Relations of the Council, Rebecca Adamu, said the review process followed established regulatory procedures.
However, the National Shippers Association of Nigeria warned that higher port charges could further drive up the cost of imported goods, adding pressure to inflation and increasing uncertainty for businesses.
“We trust that the Nigerian Shippers’ Council will act with fairness envisioned in its enabling Act,” said Alhaji Jamilu M. Goma, Acting National President of the association.
Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the association, Alhaji Ali Madugu, said shipping lines had increased tariffs by almost 60 per cent without proper engagement.
“We reject the recent tariff increase by service providers in the shipping industry, the shipping line, they arbitrarily woke up and increased their tariffs without really consulting with us, the cargo owners,” Madugu said.
The association said the increase could raise import costs, disrupt trade planning, and place additional financial burdens on consumers through higher prices for imported goods. Industry stakeholders warned that sustained increases in port charges could weaken competitiveness and worsen inflation trends.
The National Shippers Association of Nigeria called for the suspension of the new charges pending an inclusive stakeholder meeting to agree on a transparent and consultative framework for tariff reviews.
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council has also directed shipping companies, agents, and terminal operators to suspend any intended tariff adjustments until full stakeholder engagement is completed.
