Freight forwarders and customs agents are up in arms against shipping companies and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) over a recent increase in shipping charges.
Despite protests, the NSC claims it has attempted to engage stakeholders in dialogue, but protesters insist they’ve never been invited to talks ¹ ² ³.
The Executive Secretary of NSC, Dr. Pius Akutah, urged protesters to embrace dialogue, warning that prolonged disputes could disrupt port operations and harm trade.
However, protesters claim the NSC has been evasive, citing a cancelled meeting on February 23, 2026, and accuse the council of siding with shipping companies.
The dispute centers on a tariff hike implemented by shipping companies, which freight forwarders deem “illegal” and “exploitative”.
They vow to continue protests until charges are reversed and proper dialogue is initiated.
Would you like to know more about the impact of shipping charges on Nigeria’s economy or the role of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council in regulating maritime trade?
