Shippers Council urges dialogue as shippers protest rate hike

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has called on shippers to embrace dialogue in resolving disputes over recent tariff increases by shipping companies, warning against actions that could disrupt trade.

Talking Lagosthe Executive Secretary of the NSC, Doctor Akutah Piusurged stakeholders in the maritime sector to avoid industrial actions that could negatively impact Nigeria’s economy.

His remarks followed protests from freight forwarders who picketed the offices of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) for the increase in tariffs of shipping companies.

Despite the ongoing protests, the council revealed that efforts had been made to enter into discussions with the aggrieved parties, but the protesters rejected the engagement.

Dispatchers also indicated their intention to continue the protest March 23, 2026insisting on the need to reverse the tariff increase.

Akutah stressed that dialogue remains the most effective approach to resolving disputes, describing it as faster, more constructive and less destructive than confrontational actions.

He warned that prolonged disagreements within the shipping industry could interfere with port operations and have broader implications for trade and economic stability.

While acknowledging the right of stakeholders to express grievances, the NSC chief criticized what he described as unprofessional conduct by some protesters.

It specifically condemned actions that prevented regulatory officials from accessing MSC’s premises to address the situation.

Akutah also recalled a similar protest earlier in the year, during which the council intervened and obtained a temporary suspension of disputed charges to allow negotiations.

He reiterated the Council’s commitment to mediate between shipping companies AND freight forwarders to ensure fair prices, industry stability and smooth port operations.