Shippers Council Takes On Extortion as Haulage Costs Surge

In the past two years, the Nigerian Shippers Council, the economic regulator of the port, has been actively addressing the issue of extortion along port access, significantly impacting the high cost of haulage. This problem had plagued trailer drivers attempting to enter port complexes, particularly in Lagos, the country’s maritime hub. Despite persistent complaints from trailer operators, extortion continued even amidst escalating fuel prices.

The turning point came with the appointment of Emmanuel Jime as the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council in 2021. Over his two-year tenure, he waged a relentless battle against extortionists, effectively bringing about positive changes in the state of the country’s port access roads.

To combat corruption along the ports’ corridor, the Ports Standing Task Team (PSTT) was established. This team took decisive action against non-state actors who were exploiting trailer drivers en route to port complexes. The PSTT’s efforts have successfully curtailed the menace of extortion along the ports’ corridor, leading to a reduction in haulage costs over the past two years.

Beyond addressing extortion, Jime also prioritized creating a more favorable working environment in the sector and fostering stakeholder engagement, although some argued that further steps were necessary.

Upon his appointment in June 2021 to replace Hassan Bello, skepticism loomed among industry operators regarding Jime’s ability to fill his predecessor’s shoes at the Nigerian Shippers Council. Despite being a former managing director of the Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority, Jime was relatively unknown in the port industry.

Jime’s tenure witnessed a strengthened collaboration with terminal operators and shipping companies, as noted by Mark Walsh, the Managing Director of ENL Consortium. Walsh commended the council’s direct involvement with terminal operators, emphasizing their proactive approach to moving the industry forward.

Olayiwola Shittu, a former National President of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents, acknowledged the council’s efforts in promoting stakeholder engagement. Shittu highlighted the rarity of such cooperation in an industry characterized by stiff competition among government agency leaders. He also noted the challenges arising from the NSC’s limited enforcement powers and expressed hope for future empowerment.

Assessing the council’s performance over the last two years, Eugene Nweke, a former National President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, pointed out that the council’s activities might not always be as visible as those of other maritime agencies. Despite not awarding contracts related to waterways or port repairs, the council has dedicated itself to safeguarding the industry.

In conclusion, the Nigerian Shippers Council, under the leadership of Emmanuel Jime, has made significant strides in addressing extortion and enhancing stakeholder engagement. Despite challenges and calls for increased empowerment, the council’s proactive approach has contributed to a positive transformation in the country’s port access roads and the overall maritime sector.