Port users have condemned the introduction of an $8,000 “cleaning fee” by general cargo terminals, calling it an unjustified burden on shipowners.
They questioned what exactly is being cleaned at the ship site that warrants $8,000, calling on the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to urgently address the issue.
They also lamented the lack of insurance coverage for cargo handlers by stevedoring companies in Nigeria.
Speaking at the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) 2024 yearly conference and awards held in Lagos, the Managing Director of Shipbait Nigeria Limited, Festus Nwiue, said in other ports, cargo handlers are insured, trained and well-equipped to prevent cargo damage.
Drawing from his international experience working in ports across Norway, Holland, and West Africa, Nwiue said in Nigeria, many handlers lack training or insurance, leading to frequent damage and disputes.
He revealed that numerous petitions have been filed by cargo owners and receivers with the Shippers’ Council, but these issues persist.
To address this, Nwiue proposed a mandatory insurance policy for all port workers, including those employed by the NPA and terminal operators, to ensure cargo owners have recourse in cases of damage.
Responding, the Port Manager, Lagos Port Complex, Adebowale Ibrahim, expressed confusion and concern regarding the recently introduced $8,000 cleaning fee at some terminals.
“We were not informed about this fee, and I don’t know what they are cleaning for $8,000,” he said. “We will look into it and take appropriate action to address the issue,” he said.
Ibrahim reaffirmed the NPA’s commitment to improving port operations and ensuring transparency and fairness in the management of terminal operators.
“We are working to enhance the facilities and ensure that operators have the tools they need to perform efficiently,” he stated.
The Director of Strategic Planning and Research, NSC, Rotimi Anifowose, called for urgent reforms in the country’s port operations to stem the growing trend of Nigeria-bound cargo being routed through neighbouring countries, particularly Lome Port.
Anifowose expressed concern over the increasing reliance of Nigerian importers and exporters on ports outside the country.
Reflecting on his visit to Lome, he noted that Lome Port has grown significantly in recent years, adding that 85 to 90 per cent of cargo there are Nigeria-bound, while Nigeria’s ports are primarily handling transshipments.
He attributed this shift to Nigeria’s ports falling short in providing a conducive environment for business, which has driven cargo owners to seek alternatives.
“We are losing revenue to neighbouring countries. This is a wake-up call for all of us. We all have a role to play. We need to create an environment where businesses are confident in using Nigerian ports,” he said.
Anifowose emphasised the need for cooperation among key stakeholders to improve the ports and enhance the confidence of importers and exporters.