The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has directed all shipping lines and their agencies to immediately suspend the implementation of recently approved tariffs.
The directive, issued by the council’s management and made available to journalists in Lagos on Friday, follows ongoing consultations with key stakeholders about the new charges.
According to the NSC, the engagements were aimed at addressing concerns regarding the timing, structure and potential impact of the tariffs on port users and logistics operations.
“In order to safeguard fair competition, transparency, and sectoral stability, the Council considers it necessary to halt further implementation.
“We want to ensure that all operators and stakeholders are aligned before any new tariff structure is enforced,” the statement read.
The council directed that all affected operators revert to, and strictly apply, the previous tariff regime.
“Any deviation from the previous tariff structure will be treated as a breach of compliance and will attract sanctions under the law,” the NSC warned.
A spokesperson for the council emphasized, “Our priority is to protect cargo interests and maintain an efficient and equitable maritime transport system for all stakeholders.”
The NSC also pledged to communicate a definitive position once the consultations and internal reviews are completed. Operators have been urged to ensure strict and immediate compliance.
The suspension will remain in effect until the conclusion of the consultations and a comprehensive regulatory review.
NAN
