The Nigerian Shippers Council has held the Maersk Line responsible for the 1,000 export containers still stuck at the APMT terminal at Apapa Port.

According to the Executive Secretary of the Council, Barr Pius Akutah, Maersk admitted to a shortage of vessels, which has caused the delay in moving the containers out of the terminal. Out of 1,800 containers initially involved, only 800 have been shipped so far.

The Council has warned that if the cargo gets damaged or is rejected on arrival because of the long delay, Maersk will bear the full cost.

Akutah also revealed that the Council has received a large number of complaints from shippers. Many disputes linked to port charges have been resolved. To improve service delivery, the Council has simplified the invoicing process and instructed terminal operators to display their tariffs clearly for public view.

On a broader note, efforts are ongoing to develop inland dry ports across the country. The Jibia Border Information Centre, which recently collapsed, is also set to be rebuilt.