The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has strengthened its resolve to optimize port efficiency through aggressive regulatory reforms. Operating as the nation’s port economic regulator, the Council’s latest initiatives target cost reduction, absolute transparency, and heightened trade competitiveness across all Nigerian gateways.
This disclosure was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday, May 20, by the Council’s Head of Public Relations, Rebecca Adamu. She noted that the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima, Esq, MON, FCILT made the remarks in Ikeja, Lagos, during the 25th Anniversary and Award Conferment Ceremony of Maritime Watch Newspaper. The event was themed: “Enhancing Efficiency and Reducing Costs in Nigerian Ports Through Shippers’ Council’s Regulatory Framework.”
Speaking for the ES/CEO, the Deputy Director of the Stakeholders Services Division, Ms. Adaora Nwonu, traced the Council’s journey from a shipper-protection agency to its powerful modern iteration as Nigeria’s Port Economic Regulator.
Ports are critical gateways for trade and investment. Dr. Akutah noted that the maritime sector continues to serve as a primary engine driving Nigeria’s economic growth.”
He emphasized that optimized port operations are vital to slashing logistics costs, supercharging export performance, and sharpening Nigeria’s competitive edge in global trade. Conversely, persistent bottlenecks and system inefficiencies trigger costly delays, inflate transaction overheads, and erode investor confidence—underscoring the urgent need for continuous regulatory reforms and seamless stakeholder collaboration.”
According to the Chief Executive, the Federal Government’s decision to name the Council as the Port Economic Regulator has been a game-changer in instilling order, transparency, and fairness across Nigerian gateways. This has been achieved through robust regulatory frameworks and continuous stakeholder dialogue.
He pointed to a robust suite of trade-facilitation initiatives designed to phase out operational bottlenecks. Key among these are the promotion of Inland Dry Ports and Vehicle Transit Areas, the deployment of Border Information Centres, automated port digitalization, the critical National Single Window project, and the strategic positioning of Nigeria within the AfCFTA framework.
The Executive Secretary emphasized that institutionalized digital integration, transparent data sharing, and unwavering stakeholder compliance are non-negotiable for achieving frictionless operations and elevated service standards.
Speaking afterward, Ms. Adaora Nwonu underscored the power of the press in advancing the Council’s agenda. “Given the media’s extensive reach, their support is vital in broadcasting our regulatory reforms and operational innovations,” Nwonu noted. “An informed public ensures a steady stream of constructive feedback, which is essential for refining policies and fostering industry-wide growth.
