Tariff Dispute: NSC Says 30% Hike Equitable And Fair

BY GBOGBOWA GBOWA

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has reaffirmed its stance on the recently approved 30% tariff increase, describing it as both equitable and fair, while emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement before full implementation.

According to a statement, at a one-day forum convened with shipping companies, freight forwarders, importers, and exporters, the Council’s Executive Secretary/CEO, Dr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima, MON, explained that the suspension of the tariff hike in March 2026 was a deliberate measure to allow for wider consultations across the maritime sector. He stressed that shipping companies must conclude discussions with stakeholders before rolling out the new rates.

Dr. Akutah clarified that the 30% increase represents a ceiling rather than a fixed rate, noting that companies may adopt lower increments of 10% or 20% depending on the outcome of their consultations.

“The adjustment will be gradual and will not destabilize the economy,” he assured, adding that some operators had already begun partial implementation.

He revealed that while shipping companies initially proposed hikes of up to 200%, the Council settled on 30% to balance industry sustainability with economic stability. “We considered inflation, rising operational costs, and recent wage adjustments in the sector. The goal is not excessive profit-making but ensuring efficiency without overburdening the economy,” he said.

According to the statement, stakeholders at the meeting acknowledged the necessity of tariff adjustments but criticized the lack of prior consultation. Dr. Jamilu Umar, President of the National Shippers’ Association of Nigeria (NSAN), emphasized that the process must be transparent: “We are not against the increase, but due process must be followed.”

Similarly, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) urged that shipping companies be mandated to consult stakeholders before implementing any changes. Boma Alabi, President of the Shipping Association of Nigeria (SAN), noted that while the 30% hike fell short of industry expectations, it reflected current realities, including rising costs and a new minimum wage of N200,000 in the subsector.

The forum brought together key associations including ANLCA, NAGAFF, AREFFN, MAN, NCMDLCA, APFFLON, and the West Africa Exporters Association, all of whom called for sustained collaboration to build a competitive and value-driven maritime industry.