NSC orders suspension of newly approved port tariffs

By Joy Enamuna 

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has directed all shipping lines and their agents to immediately suspend the implementation of recently approved tariffs at the nation’s ports.

The directive, issued on Monday, follows concerns raised by key stakeholders about the timing, structure, and potential impact of the new charges on port users and the broader logistics sector.

In a statement, the NSC said the suspension is necessary to safeguard fair competition, transparency, and stability within the maritime sector while comprehensive consultations and regulatory reviews are ongoing.

“All affected operators are required to revert to the tariff regime in place before the recent increase. Any deviation from this directive will be treated as a breach of regulatory compliance and may attract sanctions under existing laws,” the Council stated.

The regulator emphasized that the decision is temporary and that a final position will be communicated after stakeholder engagements and internal review processes are concluded.

The NSC reiterated its commitment to effective economic regulation, the protection of cargo interests, and the promotion of an efficient and equitable maritime transport system.

Operators have been urged to ensure immediate and strict compliance with the directive to avoid penalties.

The Council’s action comes amid ongoing efforts to balance revenue generation with the operational needs of port users and maintain stability across Nigeria’s shipping and logistics value chain.