The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has directed all shipping lines and their agencies to immediately suspend the implementation of recently approved tariffs following concerns raised by stakeholders across the maritime sector.
The directive, issued by the council’s management and made available to journalists in Lagos on Friday, comes amid ongoing consultations on the timing, structure, and potential impact of the charges on port users and logistics operations.
According to the council, the suspension is necessary to safeguard fair competition, ensure transparency, and maintain stability within the sector while discussions continue.
“In order to safeguard fair competition, transparency, and sectoral stability, the Council considers it necessary to halt further implementation,” the statement said.
The NSC also instructed all affected operators to immediately revert to the previous tariff regime, warning that any deviation would be treated as a compliance breach and could attract sanctions under existing regulations.
A spokesperson for the council emphasized that protecting cargo owners’ interests and maintaining an efficient maritime transport system remain key priorities.
The council assured stakeholders that a definitive position would be communicated after consultations and internal regulatory reviews are concluded.
The suspension will remain in force until the review process is completed and a final decision on the tariff structure is announced.