The Nigerian Shippers’ Council has called for dialogue following the picketing of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) offices by freight forwarders protesting recent tariff increases.
The council warned that prolonged disputes could disrupt port operations and economic activities.
The protest is linked to recent increases in shipping line charges, which have drawn opposition from freight forwarders and clearing agents operating at Nigerian ports.
Nigeria’s maritime sector plays a key role in trade and logistics, with port operations in Lagos serving as major entry points for imports.
Disputes over tariffs and service charges often affect stakeholders across the supply chain, including importers, exporters and logistics operators.
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council acts as the economic regulator of ports, overseeing pricing and ensuring fair practices among shipping companies and service providers.
The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Akutah Pius, urged freight forwarders to adopt dialogue as a “constructive approach” to resolving disputes instead of industrial action.
The protest involved freight forwarders picketing MSC offices in response to increased tariffs. Despite attempts by the council to engage the protesters, the freight forwarders declined dialogue and insisted there was no basis for discussion.
The protesters also stated that they would continue the action until the increased charges are reversed.
The council warned that industrial actions within the maritime sector could disrupt port operations and negatively affect trade and economic activities.
It also criticised what it described as unprofessional conduct by some freight forwarders, particularly the blocking of regulatory officials from accessing MSC premises to address the situation.
The council recalled that during an earlier protest over the same tariff issue, it intervened and secured a temporary suspension of the charges for two days while discussions were ongoing.
The dispute highlights ongoing tensions between shipping companies and freight forwarders over pricing in Nigeria’s port system.
Protests and disruptions at shipping company offices can affect cargo handling, clearance processes and delivery timelines.
For businesses and importers, prolonged disagreements may lead to delays, increased costs and uncertainty in logistics operations.
The council’s call for dialogue reflects efforts to maintain stability and prevent disruptions in the maritime sector.
