The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has saved maritime stakeholders over N10 billion in dispute resolution costs over the past two years, while driving major infrastructure initiatives, including 14 vehicle transit parks across Nigeria. These efforts aim to position Nigeria as a leading maritime hub in Africa under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

At a recent media briefing, NSC Executive Secretary, Dr. Pius Akutah, revealed that the Council’s Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism handled 300–400 cases in 2025 alone, saving stakeholders over N4 billion. This follows N6 billion saved in 2024, highlighting the economic benefits of efficient conflict management in a sector that supports more than 80% of global trade.

Dr. Akutah also highlighted the Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill, currently awaiting presidential assent, as one of the Council’s most significant achievements in two years. Sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the legislation will replace the 1978 decree, modernizing the legal framework for the sector.

Transit Parks and Inland Dry Ports

The Council is advancing 14 strategically located vehicle transit parks, designed to reduce driver fatigue, prevent accidents, and provide safe cargo storage. These facilities also serve as economic hubs where drivers can rest and refresh while ensuring goods are protected.

Regarding inland dry ports, Dr. Akutah noted that the Funtua Inland Dry Port is nearing completion, with additional facilities in Borno State being fast-tracked. These dry ports aim to improve cargo movement from Nigeria’s hinterlands to seaports, enhancing trade efficiency.

Border Information Centres and Trade Formalization

NSC has established Border Information Centres (BICs) to monitor and document informal cross-border trade, promote formalization, and engage neighboring countries on smuggling and trade compliance. This initiative fills a crucial gap in Nigeria’s national trade data and strengthens economic oversight.

Maritime Connectivity Challenges

Dr. Akutah acknowledged Nigeria’s delayed signing of the AfCFTA agreement, which resulted in lost opportunities such as hosting the Secretariat. However, he emphasized the country’s current focus on improving maritime connectivity, noting that inefficient vessel routing and limited ship ownership remain key challenges. NSC is promoting inland dry ports, transit parks, and border facilities to address these gaps and support intra-African trade.

Compliance and Stakeholder Engagement

The Council has reported high compliance rates with regulatory mandates, supported by transparent communication and a culture of cooperation among investors. Voluntary registration of service providers demonstrates the sector’s maturity and alignment with reforms.

Dr. Akutah stressed the importance of ADR as a cost-effective alternative to litigation, allowing disputes to be resolved efficiently and partnerships maintained.

Looking Ahead

With infrastructure projects progressing nationwide and the regulatory bill awaiting presidential assent, NSC’s reforms signal Nigeria’s determination to reclaim leadership in African maritime logistics and maximize benefits under AfCFTA.