The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has pat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for assenting the Nigeria Ports Economic Regulator Agency (NPERA) bill into law.
With Tinubu’s assent, the establishment of the NPERA has come into force with the Nigeria Shippers Council (NSC) expected to transmute into the new government agency.
Already, the establishment of NPERA has elicited reactions from far and near with some stakeholders in the maritime sector of the economy describing it as one of the fruits in the landmark reforms championed by the Federal Government through the leadership of NSC over the years, particularly at the time when Mr. Hassan Bello held sway as its Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
NAGAFF in a statement signed by its National President, High Chief Tochukwu Ezisi stated that the establishment of NPERA represents a decisive step toward strengthening Nigeria’s maritime governance framework.
According to the statement which was made available to Maritime Bits, Ezisi said the creation of NPERA is a transformative milestone that will rebalance Nigeria’s port governance. By separating operational functions under the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) from regulatory oversight under NPERA, the government has ensured transparency, fairness, and efficiency in port operations. Freight forwarders and traders stand to benefit most from this reform, while terminal operators and NPA must adapt to reduced autonomy.
The NAGAFF National President stated that the key highlights include the fact that freight forwarders expect transparent tariff structures, improved competitiveness, and fair dispute resolution; shipping lines will gain predictable tariff regimes and reduced monopolistic practices; and terminal operators will benefit from clearer concession guidelines but face stricter monitoring.
Others include the fact that the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) will be relieved of dual responsibilities, focusing on infrastructure and service delivery; government and policymakers will strengthened governance frameworks to align with global maritime standards; and consumers and traders anticipate reduction in logistics costs and improved cargo clearance efficiency.
In closing, Ezisi said: “NAGAFF stands ready to collaborate with NPERA, NPA, and all stakeholders to ensure that this reform delivers on its promise of a more competitive, transparent, and globally aligned maritime sector. We urge the government to provide the necessary support and call on all operators to embrace this change in the collective interest of Nigeria’s trade and economic growth.”
