Shippers’ Council Sensitizes Stakeholders On Online Registration Portal Relevance

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has sensitized port operators on the relevance of its online portal for the registration of regulated port service providers and users.

In his address, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the NSC, Pius Akutah said in line with their vision, they have intensified efforts to promote efficiency, transparency, and compliance in the port and shipping sector.

Akutah, represented by Deputy Director, of Stakeholders Services at the NSC, Mrs Adaba Hannah, explained that the critical part of the effort is the mandatory registration of all regulated port service providers and users, in accordance with Part II, Section 4(1) of the Port Economic Regulation 2015.

He mentioned that the implementation of the online registration portal represents a significant milestone in the NSC’s journey toward digital transformation and enhanced trade facilitation.

According to him, with the platform, stakeholders can seamlessly register their companies online without the need for physical visits to any NSC office, provided that the necessary documentation and payments are submitted.

“This automation aligns with our broader agenda to eliminate bottlenecks, reduce bureaucracy, and promote ease of doing business in Nigeria’s maritime sector.”

“As the council takes proactive steps to strengthen port economic regulation, it is important to highlight the implementation of the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN).”

“The ICTN is a strategic initiative that enhances cargo visibility, improves revenue assurance, combats under-declaration, and strengthens national security in trade operations.”

“The registration of port service providers and users is therefore a necessary component of this initiative, as it provides a structured database of all industry operators, fostering accountability, efficiency, and data-driven regulation”, he said.

The CEO emphasised that the NSC would continue to engage stakeholders, enforce compliance, and advocate for an efficient, transparent, and competitive maritime industry.

He encouraged all service providers and users to complete their registration and obtain their certificates to ensure they remain compliant with industry regulations and avoid applicable sanctions.

He also urged all stakeholders to embrace the transition and support the council’s efforts toward effective port economic regulation, trade facilitation, and enhanced national competitiveness.

The CEO restated the NSC’s commitment to its role as the port economic regulator and its active pursue of transition into the Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NIPERA).

Earlier, Alhaji Ahmed Yazah, the Director, NSC North West Zone said as a port economic regulator, they are responsible in providing and ensuring efficient and effective transport services across all modes (sea, rail and road).

Yazah also said they encourage the development of transport infrastructures such as Inland Dry Ports (IDPs), Vehicle Transit Areas (VTAs) and Border information Centres (BICs) across the Nation.