Shippers Council’s Dispute Mediation Shields Economy from Huge Losses, Enhances Trade

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has disclosed that its intervention in trade and port-related disputes has saved the Nigerian economy billions of naira, while also improving efficiency and transparency in the maritime sector.

The executive secretary and chief executive officer of the Council, Dr Akutah Pius, made this known at a stakeholders’ engagement held in Lagos, where he highlighted key achievements of the agency and outlined its reform agenda.

Akutah said the Council has continued to play a pivotal role in mediating between users and providers of port services, ensuring that disputes are resolved promptly without disrupting trade activities or escalating costs for businesses.

According to him, the dispute resolution mechanism put in place by the Council has significantly reduced arbitrary charges, operational delays and bottlenecks that previously hampered port operations.

“The Council’s timely interventions have not only protected port users but have also saved the economy huge financial losses that would have arisen from prolonged disputes and inefficiencies,” he said.

He noted that beyond dispute resolution, the NSC has intensified efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s transport and logistics infrastructure through the development of Inland Dry Ports (IDPs) across the country.

Akutah explained that the IDP projects are designed to decongest the seaports, facilitate trade in the hinterland and enhance the overall efficiency of cargo movement nationwide.

He added that the Council, with the support of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, has continued to drive the establishment of these ports to boost economic activities and improve access to shipping services.

The NSC boss further highlighted the agency’s progress in digital transformation, particularly with the implementation of the Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS), which has fully digitised documentation processes within the Council.

He said the transition to electronic documentation has streamlined operations, reduced processing time and enhanced service delivery to stakeholders.

Akutah reiterated the Council’s commitment to deepening reforms, improving service standards and ensuring that the maritime sector contributes optimally to national economic growth.

He assured stakeholders that the NSC would sustain its efforts in promoting a fair, efficient and cost-effective port system in line with global best practices.