By Sandra Chukwunyere
The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has welcomed the establishment of the Nigeria Ports Economic Regulator Agency (NPERA), describing the development as an important step towards achieving greater transparency, fairness and efficiency in Nigeria’s port sector.
The association also congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the reform, noting that the creation of a dedicated economic regulatory agency would strengthen oversight and provide a clearer framework for the administration of Nigeria’s ports.
In a statement signed by its National President, High Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, NAGAFF said the new agency has the potential to address some of the longstanding concerns surrounding port regulation, particularly issues relating to tariffs, competition and dispute resolution.
Ezisi said the separation of port operations from economic regulation would provide a more balanced system in which the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) can concentrate on its core responsibilities while the new regulator provides effective economic oversight.
According to him, freight forwarders and traders are among those expected to benefit from a more transparent and predictable regulatory environment.
He said, “The establishment of NPERA is a significant development in the reform of Nigeria’s port sector. We believe that a clear separation between operational responsibilities and economic regulation will promote transparency, fairness and efficiency.
“Freight forwarders and traders need a regulatory environment where tariffs are transparent, disputes can be resolved fairly and all stakeholders are given a level playing field.”
The NAGAFF president added that shipping lines and terminal operators would also benefit from clearer regulatory guidelines, although they would be expected to comply with stronger oversight and accountability measures.
He noted that effective regulation could help reduce unnecessary costs associated with cargo movement, improve efficiency and ultimately strengthen the competitiveness of Nigerian ports.
NAGAFF, however, urged the Federal Government to ensure that NPERA is provided with the necessary resources, professional personnel and institutional independence to effectively carry out its responsibilities.
The association also called on all stakeholders in the maritime industry to support the reform and work with the new agency to ensure that its objectives are achieved.
Ezisi said NAGAFF remained committed to working with NPERA, NPA, government agencies, terminal operators, shipping companies and other industry stakeholders towards building a more efficient and competitive port system.
He said, “NAGAFF welcomes this development and is prepared to collaborate with the relevant authorities to ensure that the reform delivers tangible benefits to port users and the wider Nigerian economy.
“A transparent and efficient port regulatory system will not only benefit freight forwarders and traders but will also contribute to reducing the cost of doing business and promoting Nigeria’s position as a leading maritime hub in Africa.”
