Oyetola orders review of levies charged by agencies under Blue Economy Ministry

…Set to release harmonised port charges

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has announced that the Ministry is reviewing all levies collected by agencies under its jurisdiction to establish harmonised charges for Nigerian ports.

High port charges and arbitrary increases in cargo clearance costs by various service providers have been significant challenges for the Nigerian port system, adversely impacting the ease of doing business.

Speaking at the opening of a two-day training for freight forwarders in the South-East on Monday in Port Harcourt, Oyetola, represented by his technical adviser, Busayo Fakinlade, stated that a committee has been established to review all levies charged by agencies under the ministry.

“The ministry is committed to ensuring there are no multiple levies imposed on businesses within the maritime sub-sector,” Mr. Oyetola said.

He further noted that consultations are ongoing with the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Ports Authority, and Nigeria Shippers Council, among other agencies, to harmonise charges.

“Ultimately, a policy statement will be issued to advance the maritime sub-sector forward,” the minister added.