NSC Clarifies WACT Tariff Review: Approval Aligns with Industry Standards

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has addressed recent social media reports regarding the tariff review approval granted to the West Africa Container Terminal (WACT) in 2021 and 2023. As the designated economic regulator of Nigeria’s port sector, the NSC finds it necessary to correct any misinformation and provide transparency on the issue.

Tariff Review Within Industry Benchmark

The NSC affirms that the tariff adjustments implemented by WACT underwent thorough regulatory review and approval. These assessments ensured that the revised rates remained within the acceptable industry benchmark while reflecting prevailing economic conditions. As part of its mandate, the NSC guarantees that all approved tariff modifications are fair, justifiable, and sustainable for both service providers and port users.

Stakeholder Engagement with Clearing Agents

Before implementing the new tariff structure, WACT engaged extensively with key stakeholders, including the leadership of registered clearing agents in Onne. These consultations involved major industry bodies such as:

• Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA)
• National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF)
• Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria (ARFFN)
• National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA)

These discussions resulted in a mutual agreement that the tariff adjustments would be phased to minimize the impact on port users.

Phased Implementation for Fair Transition

Following the agreement, WACT introduced the first phase of the tariff adjustment, which was accepted by service users. In line with the consultative process, the final phase was scheduled after a one-month and two-week notice period, allowing stakeholders adequate time to prepare. This approach underscored WACT’s commitment to transparency and gradual adaptation to the new rates.

Addressing APFFLON’s Non-Participation

Contrary to certain claims, the Africa Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON) was not deliberately excluded from the stakeholder engagement process. According to WACT, APFFLON has failed, for two consecutive years, to obtain an introductory letter from the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), a prerequisite for recognition as a valid agent. Their absence in the discussions was a result of non-compliance with regulatory requirements rather than deliberate exclusion.

Commitment to Fair and Competitive Practices

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council remains steadfast in ensuring a fair and competitive port sector that balances the interests of terminal operators and port users. The Council encourages stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue within the regulatory framework to enhance efficiency and promote sustainable port operations.

Stakeholders are urged to rely on official sources for accurate information and avoid misinformation that could disrupt port activities and regulatory processes.

The rewritten version provides a more structured, clear, and impactful presentation of the NSC’s response while ensuring accuracy and readability. Let me know if you’d like any further refinements!

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