The Executive Secretary/Ceo of the Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC), Mr. Akutah Pius Ukeyima on Wednesday revealed that the commencement of the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) is scheduled for implementation at Nigerian ports by the second quarter of 2025.
Speaking during the Five Year Strategic Management Retreat held with the theme: The Future-Transition from Nigerian Shippers Council to Nigeria Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) held in Ibadan, Oyo State, Pius Akutah revealed that the Council’s 2025 budget is strategically anchored on the 1 percent freight stabilization fee, with plans to commence its collection upon Presidential assent to the NPERA Bill.
According to the Shippers Council CEO, “With profound honour, I welcome you to this transformative management retreat. Today, we embark on a pivotal journey to define the future of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) as it transitions into the Nigerian Port Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA).
“This retreat marks a critical step in shaping a comprehensive 5-year strategic plan for 2025–2029, designed to advance the maritime sector through enhanced efficiency, adaptability, and innovation.
“The Nigerian Shippers’ Council has a proud legacy of resilience and impact—protecting shippers’ interests, fostering fair trade practices, and driving competitiveness within our ports. “Over the past year, the Council has recorded remarkable achievements, including: Signing the Minimum Standards of Conditions of Service for Workers in the Shipping Industry; Launching the Operational Manual for Inland Dry Ports & Hosting the 17th International Maritime Seminar for Judges; Rolling out the Online Registration Portal for regulated port service providers and users; Developing the E-Regulatory Process Portal (ERPP) and the Confirmation of Reasonableness of Demurrage, Freight Rate, and Charter Party Fees (CRD) Portal; Recovering billions of naira through robust complaints handling mechanisms; and Introducing a Leadership Development Program to strengthen institutional capacity through succession planning.
“These accomplishments underscore our unwavering commitment to delivering value to stakeholders and ensuring a seamless transition to NPERA.
“Notably, under the guidance of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) is scheduled for implementation in the second quarter of this year, setting the stage for enhanced revenue generation and operational oversight.
“Looking ahead, the Council’s 2025 budget is strategically anchored on the 1% freight stabilization fee, with plans to commence its collection upon Presidential assent to the NPERA Bill.
“Our focus during this retreat will revolve around four strategic priorities: Strengthening stakeholder engagement to foster inclusivity and collaboration; Promoting transparency and fairness through predictable regulatory policies; Enhancing operational efficiency to prepare for a seamless transition to NPERA; and driving sustainability by aligning economic growth with environmental responsibility.
“This retreat is not merely a planning session but a collaborative platform for crafting actionable solutions and building a solid framework for regulatory excellence. By uniting our expertise, creativity, and dedication, we can lay the foundation for a more competitive, inclusive, and sustainable maritime sector.
“As the program outlines, each Directorate has a clearly defined role, emphasizing the hands-on approach required to implement NPERA successfully. Let us seize this opportunity to shape a future of innovation, excellence, and progress.
“Once again, I warmly welcome you all and encourage you to embrace this moment to drive meaningful change. Together, we can secure a brighter and more prosperous future for Nigeria’s maritime industry.”
Also speaking, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola commended Mr. Pius Ukeyima Akutah and his team for their unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation within Nigeria’s maritime sector.
In the words of the Minister who was represented by the Ministrys Director, Planning, Research and Statistics, Hajia Kalthum Ibrahim, “As we are all aware, the maritime sector is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic growth, serving as a critical link to global trade networks and fostering pathways for commerce that drive our nation’s development. As we convene here today, let us reaffirm our commitment to harness the vast potential of our marine resources sustainably, aligning with international standards and addressing the unique challenges facing our country.
“Operating as Nigeria’s Port Economic Regulator, the Nigeria Shippers Council has been steadfast in reforming its regulatory frameworks to streamline cargo movement across Africa, facilitating intra-African trade within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). “Noteworthy initiatives such as the anti- corruption campaign at Lagos Port, research on transportation and logistics issues in international trade, improved stakeholder relationships and efforts towards implementing the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) at Nigerian ports reflect the Council’s commitment to progress.
“Undoubtedly, challenges confront the NSC, yet through endeavors aimed at port reforms, enhancing infrastructure, optimising operations, improving connectivity among transport modes, adopting the Port Community System (PCS). Bolstering maritime security and investing in capacity building, the Council is making strides towards overcoming these obstacles.
“The dedication and diligence exhibited by the NSC are essential in realising its strategic objectives and some others set for the maritime sector. This retreat not only provides an opportunity to celebrate achievements but also calls for a critical examination of the road ahead, paving the way for a transformative impact on our nation’s blue economy boosting GDP contributions, fostering job creation and instilling sustainable environmental practices.
“To the resilient team at the National Shippers’ Council, I extend my sincere appreciation for your unyielding commitment. Your persistent efforts in driving reforms, crafting policies, advocating for seamless trade processes and optimising maritime operations have continuously elevated our industry standards. Let us leverage this retreat as a platform for strategic dialogues that yield actionable insights, shaping policies that propel our shipping
Operations while fostering an inclusive and sustainable ecosystem for all stakeholders. The decisions we make here will have a lasting impact on the development of the marine and blue economy in Nigeria.
“Rest assured of the Ministry’s unwavering support in implementing policies that enhance the operational framework within which you operate. Together, we will collaboratively address bottlenecks, and elevate infrastructure as are on the verge of concluding our Marine and Blue Economy Policy that mirror contemporary realities and expectations.”
