National Single Window has not triggered demurrage, says Nigerian Shippers' Council

The Nigerian Shippers' Council (NSC) has asserted that the implementation of the National Single Window (NSW) has not resulted in additional demurrage charges for shippers. This statement addresses initial concerns that the initiative might slow down cargo clearance and lead to port congestion.

Dr. Akutah Pius, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the NSC, explained during a media engagement in Lagos that the council proactively engaged with terminal operators, shipping companies, and other stakeholders before the NSW's rollout. This preventive measure aimed to ensure that shippers would not incur unnecessary demurrage costs. Stakeholders agreed that any delays directly linked to the NSW implementation would be considered individually.

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We engaged stakeholders as a preventive measure to ensure that shippers would not bear unnecessary demurrage charges. At the end of the discussions, everyone agreed that if any shipper suffered demurrage as a result of the implementation of the National Single Window, such a case would be handled individually.

"As of today, there is no issue regarding that," Dr. Pius stated. "The implementation went smoothly and no demurrage induced by the implementation of the National Single Window has been brought to our attention." He emphasized that the process has been smooth and no complaints related to demurrage caused by the NSW have been reported.

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As of today, there is no issue regarding that. The implementation went smoothly and no demurrage induced by the implementation of the National Single Window has been brought to our attention.

Regarding the status of Inland Dry Ports (IDPs) and Vehicle Transit Areas (VTAs), Dr. Pius attributed delays to funding constraints faced by private concessionaires and security challenges in certain locations. He clarified that while the NSC regulates and monitors these projects, their development relies on private investors, some of whom have struggled to secure adequate resources for construction. The proposed Borno Inland Dry Port, for instance, is delayed because its allocated site is in an area affected by insecurity. Efforts to facilitate collaboration between concessionaires have also been unsuccessful due to a lack of agreement.

Additionally, Dr. Pius dismissed allegations of a secret recruitment exercise at the NSC, insisting that the process adhered to all statutory requirements and obtained necessary approvals from relevant government offices, including the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the Federal Character Commission, and the Budget Office.

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There was no illegal or quiet recruitment. Everything was done in accordance with the law and due process. Anyone who wants to verify the approvals is free to come to the Council.