By Joshua Yousouph
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has called for the expedited clearance and delivery of power project cargo at the nation’s seaports, as part of efforts to support ongoing investments in Nigeria’s power sector and broader economic growth.
This formed the central message during a working visit by the NSC Board, led by Chairman, Dr. Ibrahim Shehu Shema, alongside the Executive Secretary/CEO, Dr. Pius Akutah, to major terminal operators and shipping firms, including CMA CGM and APM Terminals, at the Lagos Port on Thursday.
Speaking during the visit, Dr. Shema emphasized the strategic importance of seamless logistics in the execution of critical national infrastructure, particularly power projects. He urged all stakeholders within the port value chain—including terminal operators, shipping lines, and contractors—to prioritize and fast-track the handling of equipment meant for power generation, transmission, and distribution.
He noted that the Federal Government remains committed to improving electricity supply across the country, stressing that delays in clearing such cargo could undermine ongoing efforts to stabilize the sector.
According to him, “everything should be done to speed up the process of how the goods come into the country and how fast they are delivered to project sites. This is crucial to ensuring that power projects are completed on schedule.”
The NSC Board Chairman further highlighted the need for deliberate policies to strengthen collaboration among stakeholders in the maritime sector, noting that increased efficiency at the ports would not only support power projects but also enhance trade and revenue generation.
He also pointed to the importance of dredging port channels to accommodate larger vessels, which would boost cargo throughput and improve Nigeria’s competitiveness in global maritime trade.
In his remarks, NSC Executive Secretary, Dr. Akutah, commended the level of modernization and technological adoption observed among operators, noting that digital innovations are already improving cargo handling efficiency and turnaround time.
He stated that the Council would continue to monitor operators’ performance while encouraging further investments and compliance with regulatory standards aimed at enhancing service delivery.
Akutah also disclosed that export volumes are witnessing a steady rise, with some operators recording up to a 30 percent increase, expressing optimism that Nigeria is gradually moving towards a more balanced trade position.
He added that ongoing investments, including a proposed $600 million upgrade by APM Terminals, reflect growing investor confidence in the Nigerian port sector.
Managing Director of APM Terminals, Kamal Alhraishat, reaffirmed the company’s long-term commitment to Nigeria, noting that its modernization and digitization initiatives have significantly improved port operations and cargo handling processes.
He, however, called on the Federal Government to expedite dredging of the current 13.5-metre draft at the terminal’s berth to enable it to receive larger vessels and further enhance operational capacity.
Similarly, Managing Director of CMA CGM Nigeria, Hinelder Ferreira, reiterated the company’s strong partnership with the NSC and highlighted its fully digitized processes designed to ensure smoother cargo handling and improved turnaround time.
While addressing concerns around tariff adjustments, Ferreira explained that rising inflation has impacted operational costs, necessitating price reviews. He, however, advocated broader stakeholder consultations to ensure a balanced and sustainable implementation.
