Shipping Tariff Hike Talks Deadlocked in Nigeria

Negotiations between the Federal Government and stakeholders in Nigeria's maritime sector regarding a proposed 30% increase in shipping tariffs have stalled. The Nigerian Shipper Council (NSC) had initially planned to implement this hike but opted for broader consultations after pushback from shipping companies.

During a closed-door session, Abdusamad Dasuki, chairman of the committee, disclosed that a fresh round of stakeholder engagement is scheduled within the next two weeks to address unresolved issues. Piu Akutah, the NSC's executive secretary, noted that although the council approved the 30% increase, it was suspended due to stakeholder resistance.

Akutah emphasized that an adjustment remains necessary, as there has been no tariff increment in the sector for two years. The council proposed a phased implementation approach, with the 30% serving as an upper limit.

San Boma Alabi, chairman of the Ship Association of Nigeria, expressed dissatisfaction with the outcome of the talks, calling for a transparent mechanism for tariff review similar to frameworks in telecommunications and energy sectors.