“In a world where the efficiency of ports is crucial to global trade, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), as the regulator of ports, is working diligently to enhance and modernize the Nigerian ports system. The World Bank and S & P Global are actively tracking and evaluating the performance of ports globally. In this report, according to Francis Ugwoke highlights the NSC’s measures, challenges, and progress in its ambitious agenda to transform Nigerian ports into efficient trade facilitation centers in line with international standards.
The Ameh News recall that the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), serving as the economic regulator of the nation’s ports, is taking bold steps to elevate the efficiency and competitiveness of Nigerian ports to international standards.
In an era where global trade relies on swift and effective port operations, the NSC is actively engaged in repositioning the Nigerian ports system to provide world-class service.Across the globe, efficient port operations have long been a key focus for nations that rely on maritime trade for their economic prosperity. The report further noted that high-performing ports prioritize sound infrastructure and technological advancements to ensure efficient cargo handling and a smooth trade process.
“The NSC aims to replicate this success in Nigeria by implementing measures to modernize its ports.Efficiency is a core component of trade facilitation adding that Ports that perform well attract more business, especially from conference liners transporting goods between different parts of the world.
The report pointed out that the West African region has seen increased competition between ports vying to become the preferred hub for transshipment, posing a challenge to Nigerian ports. Neighboring countries benefit from natural draughts that accommodate vessels of various sizes, automation in their operations, and minimal congestion, leading to shorter cargo dwell times. In stark contrast, Nigerian ports face bottlenecks in customs processes, document manipulations, and other issues that result in delays. It’s crucial for Nigeria to address these challenges and improve efficiency. For instance, Customs agents in Nigeria encounter numerous processes and bottlenecks when clearing goods.
“These challenges result in extended cargo dwell times in Nigerian ports, averaging around 21 days, compared to much shorter duration in neighboring ports. This inefficiency has a direct impact on the economy, leading to higher prices of goods and services and a poor ranking in the Global Perception Index for ease of doing business.The NSC is committed to addressing these issues as part of its transformation agenda.
“By promoting automation, establishing a port community system, and conducting audits of port equipment, the NSC aims to streamline operations and reduce the delays associated with cargo clearance. Collaboration among various government agencies and stakeholders is crucial in achieving these goals.One significant concern has been the interference of some Nigeria Police Force officers stationed at the ports in customs duties, leading to unnecessary delays. The NSC has urged police officers and other agencies to avoid intercepting goods that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has already cleared.
“This interference disrupts the flow of goods and the ease of doing business at Nigerian ports. The NSC advocates for coordination among all government agencies to facilitate trade efficiently.Automation has played a pivotal role in improving efficiency. By automating various port services and promoting joint examinations by multiple agencies, customs agents can clear goods more efficiently. However, physical examinations of some cargo remain necessary due to security concerns.
The NSC continues to work on reducing these physical examinations.The NSC also emphasizes the need for efficient equipment in port operations, which involves ensuring that terminal operators and shipping lines use state-of-the-art equipment to receive vessels, unload cargo, and position containers for inspection promptly. By conducting equipment audits and gathering feedback from shippers and their agents, the NSC aims to enhance the quality of services provided at Nigerian ports.
The NSC’s primary role is to protect the interests of Nigerian importers and exporters (shippers). It acts as an impartial arbiter, safeguarding the rights of both service providers and consumers in the shipping industry. By assisting shippers with legitimate cases and intervening in issues like illegal charges from shipping companies, the NSC ensures that business practices remain fair and that no one loses their investments.Infrastructure development is a key aspect of achieving global best practices.
The NSC advises the government on improving infrastructure at ports, including rail connectivity and road rehabilitation, to reduce congestion. The Lekki Deep Seaport’s recent operation was a positive development, and ongoing road rehabilitation projects leading to the ports will further enhance trade facilitation.
Additionally, the NSC collaborates with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to establish a Consumer Protection Regime (CPR) at the ports. The CPR aims to protect shippers’ rights by addressing their challenges and ensuring that their issues are resolved promptly.The Cargo Tracking Note (CTN) is viewed as a significant tool to rectify issues within the ports system. It can help tackle problems such as under-declaration, under-invoicing, concealment, and fraud in vessel tonnage.
The CTN can enhance security by tracking the contents of cargo from the port of origin to the destination in Nigeria. The NSC is confident that the CTN will improve cargo clearance processes, reduce delays, and contribute to the efficient operation of Nigerian ports.
Hon. Emmanuel Jime, the Executive Secretary of the NSC, highlighted the achievements of the NSC in improving port efficiency.
He credited the Nigerian Ports Process Manual (NPPM) and the Ports Standing Task Team (PSTT) for their contributions to these successes. These initiatives have resulted in better turnaround times at ports and more efficient operations.The NSC’s efforts come at a critical time, with organizations like the World Bank and S & P Global monitoring and evaluating port performance worldwide. In this competitive landscape, the NSC’s proactive approach aims to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of Nigerian ports and promote international trade standards.
