In a robust display of advocacy, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) successfully recovered over N527 billion from various shipping companies and terminal operators last year. This significant sum was reclaimed following a series of disputes with local stakeholders, which encompassed issues such as billing disputes, refund problems, trade disagreements, allegations of fraud, legal challenges, cargo damage, service quality concerns, and instances of cargo loss or misplacement.
One of the standout cases managed by the council involved a conflict between Maersk Nigeria Limited and J.M. Goma International Limited over the short shipment of 21 export containers of soybeans. An oversight resulted in one container being left behind in Nigeria, negatively impacting the cargo’s quality and forcing J.M. Goma to extend a 50% discount to the importer. Thanks to tripartite mediation led by the NSC’s Chairman and Head of the Complaints Unit, Dr. Bashir Ambi Mohammed, Maersk Nigeria agreed to refund $14,585 for demurrage and storage charges, while Maersk India paid an additional $1,833 for detention costs.
Exclusive analysis by Mohammed revealed that the council made substantial recoveries throughout 2024, saving N121.1 million in the first quarter, N1.47 billion in the second quarter, and an impressive N525.5 billion in the fourth quarter. Overall, the NSC tackled 149 complaints from various stakeholders within the shipping industry, with shipping companies generating 71% of complaints in the last quarter alone.
While the council demonstrated effectiveness in addressing grievances, opinions within the industry remain mixed regarding its broader impact. Some stakeholders commend the council’s efforts, while others, like Frank Obiekezie, National Secretary of the Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria (AREFFN), question whether these actions have led to substantial improvements for freight forwarders. He pointed out that while shippers may be benefiting from reduced demurrage costs, structural changes for freight forwarders in their dealings with shipping companies are still inadequate.
Conversely, Nicodemus Odolo, a prominent figure in the Shippers Association of Lagos State (SALS), praised the council’s firm stand against unlawful charges. He acknowledged that while comprehensive data may be scarce, many shippers have experienced notable financial relief, particularly thanks to the council’s efforts to combat excessive fees imposed by shipping firms.
The NSC’s role in mitigating disputes and advocating for stakeholders showcases its critical position in navigating the complexities of the Nigerian shipping landscape. As discussions continue, the future implications of these interventions remain a topic of interest for all parties involved.
