The Federal Government, through the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), has announced plans to begin the collection of a one percent freight fee at the ports. This fee is part of a statutory funding mechanism for the NSC, as outlined in the NSC Act, although it has not yet been implemented. The announcement was made by Dr. Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the NSC, during a five-day strategic management retreat in Ibadan on Wednesday.
Strategic Planning for the Maritime Sector
The retreat, themed ‘NSC in 2030: Harnessing the Potentials of the Marine and Blue Economy through Global Partnerships and Sustainable Planning,’ is part of the NSC’s efforts to develop a comprehensive five-year strategic plan for 2025–2029. The plan is aimed at advancing the maritime sector by improving efficiency, adaptability, and innovation. Akutah emphasized that the retreat marks a pivotal step in shaping the future direction of the NSC and the broader maritime sector.
Freight Stabilisation Fee and Future Plans
Akutah explained that the one percent freight stabilisation fee will be collected once the presidential assent is granted to the Nigeria Port Economic Regulator (NPERA) Bill, which will facilitate the transition of the NSC to the NPERA. The 2025 budget for the NSC will be anchored on this fee, with plans to begin its collection once the bill is passed into law.
In addition to discussing the fee, Akutah outlined the retreat’s goal of strengthening stakeholder engagement to foster inclusivity, collaboration, and transparency. He highlighted that the retreat would help the NSC prepare for a seamless transition to the NPERA, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and aligning economic growth with environmental responsibility.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency and Sustainability
Dr. Akutah emphasized that the retreat is not just a planning session but a collaborative platform designed to craft actionable solutions for the future of the NSC. He urged attendees to seize the opportunity to shape the future of the maritime sector through innovation, excellence, and progress. The retreat will also promote fairness through predictable regulatory policies and further advance sustainability in the sector.
International Cargo Tracking and NSC’s Legacy
Looking ahead, Akutah mentioned the planned implementation of the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) in the second quarter of the year. He stated that this move would enhance revenue generation and improve operational oversight within the ports. The NSC’s legacy includes protecting shippers’ interests, fostering fair trade practices, and driving competitiveness in the maritime industry.
Akutah highlighted several significant achievements over the past year, underscoring the council’s commitment to delivering value to stakeholders and ensuring a smooth transition to the NPERA. He also noted the signing of the Minimum Standards of Conditions of Service for workers in the shipping industry, an important milestone for the sector.
Economic Growth and the Blue Economy
In a recent report by Mordor Intelligence, the Nigerian freight and logistics market is projected to reach $10.95 billion by 2025, underscoring the growing importance of the sector in driving economic growth. Akutah’s strategic initiatives, including the collection of the freight fee and the transition to NPERA, are poised to strengthen the regulatory framework and further enhance the economic potential of Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy.
