Mr. Pius Ukeyima Akutah, the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), made this announcement in Ibadan yesterday.
During the Five Year Strategic Management Retreat themed "The Future-Transition from Nigerian Shippers Council to Nigeria Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA)," Akutah emphasized the significance of this initiative.
He noted that the NSC's budget for 2025 is strategically based on a 1 percent freight stabilization fee, which is expected to commence collection following Presidential approval of the NPERA Bill.
Akutah stated, “With profound honour, I welcome you to this transformative management retreat. Today, we embark on a pivotal journey to define the future of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) as it transitions into the Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA).
“This retreat represents a vital step in developing a comprehensive five-year strategic plan for 2025–2029, aimed at enhancing the maritime sector through improved efficiency, adaptability, and innovation.
He further highlighted that the Nigerian Shippers’ Council has a distinguished history of resilience and influence—safeguarding shippers’ interests, promoting equitable trade practices, and enhancing competitiveness within our ports.
“Over the past year, the Council has recorded remarkable achievements, including: Signing the Minimum Standards of Conditions of Service for Workers in the Shipping Industry; Launching the Operational Manual for Inland Dry Ports & Hosting the 17th International Maritime Seminar for Judges; Rolling out the Online Registration Portal for regulated port service providers and users; Developing the E-Regulatory Process Portal (ERPP) and the Confirmation of Reasonableness of Demurrage, Freight Rate, and Charter Party Fees (CRD) Portal; Recovering billions of naira through robust complaints handling mechanisms; and Introducing a Leadership Development Program to strengthen institutional capacity through succession planning.
“These accomplishments underscore our unwavering commitment to delivering value to stakeholders and ensuring a seamless transition to NPERA.
“Notably, under the guidance of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) is scheduled for implementation in the second quarter of this year, setting the stage for enhanced revenue generation and operational oversight.”
Looking forward, the Council's budget for 2025 is strategically based on the 1% freight stabilization fee, with plans to initiate its collection following Presidential approval of the NPERA Bill.
During this retreat, “Our focus during this retreat will revolve around four strategic priorities: Strengthening stakeholder engagement to foster inclusivity and collaboration; Promoting transparency and fairness through predictable regulatory policies; Enhancing operational efficiency to prepare for a seamless transition to NPERA; and driving sustainability by aligning economic growth with environmental responsibility.
He emphasized that this retreat is not just a planning exercise but a collaborative forum for developing actionable solutions and establishing a robust framework for regulatory excellence. By combining our expertise, creativity, and commitment, we can create a foundation for a more competitive, inclusive, and sustainable maritime industry.
As outlined in the program, each Directorate has a specific role, highlighting the proactive approach necessary for the successful implementation of NPERA. Let us take advantage of this opportunity to shape a future characterized by innovation, excellence, and progress, Akutah stated.