For the second time in less than two months, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has ordered the suspension of newly approved tariff increases by shipping companies, following renewed protests by freight forwarders and customs agents across the nation’s ports.
The latest directive comes amid rising tension in the maritime sector, as stakeholders accused shipping lines of implementing higher charges without proper consultation, despite an earlier agreement brokered by the Council. The development triggered fresh demonstrations on Wednesday, with aggrieved agents picketing major shipping firms, including MSC, PIL, and LANSAL.
The NSC had previously halted the tariff hike about a month ago, urging all parties to engage in meaningful dialogue before any adjustment could take effect. However, freight forwarders alleged that the shipping companies went ahead to enforce the new rates without concluding the agreed consultations, prompting the latest round of protests.
In a swift response to the escalating situation, the NSC, in a press statement issued on Friday and signed by its management, directed all shipping lines and their agents to immediately suspend the implementation of the controversial tariffs.
According to the Council, the decision was taken in light of ongoing engagements with key stakeholders and growing concerns over the structure, timing, and overall impact of the increased charges on port users and the logistics value chain.
The NSC further instructed all affected operators to revert to the previous tariff regime, warning that any violation of the directive would be treated as a breach of regulatory compliance and would attract appropriate sanctions under existing laws.
The Council also assured stakeholders that a final position on the matter would be communicated after the conclusion of consultations and internal reviews.
Reaffirming its regulatory role, the NSC emphasised its commitment to protecting cargo interests and promoting an efficient and equitable maritime transport system.
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