Tension is building within Nigeria’s maritime sector following the commencement of a new tax regime on Thursday, January 1, 2026, with freight forwarding practitioners warning of possible cost increases and operational strain.
Industry stakeholders say the implementation of the revised tax framework has already begun to affect discussions among shipping lines, with indications that some operators are considering raising freight charges in anticipation of higher obligations.
The tax overhaul, described by the Federal Government as one of the most comprehensive reforms in decades, is aimed at simplifying the tax system, boosting compliance, expanding the revenue base and easing the burden on low-income earners. The reforms form part of a broader fiscal policy under President Bola Tinubu to modernise taxation, improve revenue efficiency and enhance Nigeria’s economic competitiveness. Despite earlier political debates surrounding the legislative process, the government reaffirmed January 1, 2026, as the official take-off date.
Commenting on the situation, the Head of Department, Shipping, Air and Terminal Logistics at the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Mr Ugochukwu Nnadi, disclosed that some shipping companies had already begun internal consultations.
“Two shipping companies met on Tuesday. They are meeting with plans to increase their freight charges because they wouldn’t like to be caught unawares,” Nnadi said. “Even though the law is just being implemented, preparations are already ongoing.”
Similarly, the Apapa Chapter Chairman of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), Mr Abayomi Duyile, said the new tax policy would have a direct impact on freight forwarders’ operations.
“It is going to affect us. Most of the money we spend on clearing goods comes with receipts—shipping, terminal and other charges. When you tax such money, it will definitely affect our operations,” he explained.
Duyile, however, opposed the move by some shipping companies to increase freight rates immediately, warning that it could further escalate tension at the ports.
“They want to increase, and we are saying no. They should wait till the fourth week in January so we can meet and discuss with our members. If they increase now, we are going to picket them. The increment is getting too much. They increased charges last year, and it already created tension at the ports,” he said.
Industry players say continued engagement between government agencies, shipping companies and freight forwarders will be critical in managing the transition and preventing disruptions across the nation’s ports.