Shippers’ council launches online registration portal to boost maritime efficiency
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has introduced a new online platform for the registration of regulated port service providers and users, with the aim of improving efficiency, transparency, and compliance within the maritime industry.
The digital portal, launched during a stakeholders’ sensitisation forum in Kaduna on Tuesday, allows users to complete the entire registration process remotely, thus removing the need for physical visits to the Council’s offices.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Secretary and CEO of the Council, Barr. Pius Akutah, described the initiative as a significant leap forward in the Council’s ongoing digital transformation strategy.
“This sensitisation programme on the Online Portal for the Registration of Regulated Port Service Providers and Users forms an essential part of our mandate,” he said.
Represented by the Deputy Director of Stakeholders Engagement, Mrs Adaba Hannah, the Executive Secretary remarked, “As the Port Economic Regulator, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council remains dedicated to improving efficiency, transparency, and compliance in the port and shipping sector. The launch of this registration portal marks a bold step towards achieving that objective.”
He went on to point out that the online registration is supported by Part II, Section 4(1) of the Port Economic Regulation 2015, which mandates that all regulated entities in the sector complete the registration.
The Executive Secretary continued, “Stakeholders can now conveniently register their companies online, without the need to visit any NSC office in person, as long as the necessary documentation and payments are submitted.”
He also stressed that the registration process is in line with the Council’s broader objectives of reducing bureaucracy and fostering an environment that facilitates doing business.
“This automation supports our broader mission to eliminate unnecessary obstacles, cut down on bureaucracy, and enhance the ease of doing business in Nigeria’s maritime sector,” he explained.
The Executive Secretary further mentioned that the initiative is tied to the implementation of the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN).
“The ICTN is a strategic initiative that improves cargo visibility, strengthens revenue assurance, combats under-declaration, and bolsters national security in trade operations. Therefore, the registration of port service providers and users is an essential part of this initiative,” he said.
Also addressing the forum, the Director of the North West Zonal Directorate of the NSC, Alhaji Ahmed Umar Yazah, welcomed the attendees and reiterated the Council’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of shippers across all transport modes.
“It is a great pleasure to be here with you today and to officially welcome you to this stakeholder sensitisation programme,” Yazah said. “Your presence here today inspires us and motivates us to continue working towards fulfilling the Council’s mandate.”
He noted that the NSC has played a crucial role in resolving disputes and improving operational efficiency within the sector.
“The interest you’ve shown in our programmes across the nation is reflected in our efforts to enhance efficiency in port operations, reduce unnecessary delays faced by shippers at the ports, and decrease undesirable practices by certain stakeholders. As a result, we’ve recovered over N6 billion for individual and corporate shippers in Nigeria,” he said.
Yazah encouraged participants to make the most of the sensitisation programme, describing it as “an opportunity to learn how to register regulated service providers and users of shipping services in Nigeria.”
He also stated, “It is through this registration that comprehensive information about shippers will be captured, processed, and used to ensure smooth interaction and engagement.”
While encouraging feedback, he added: “We operate an open-door policy. We welcome suggestions and even criticisms on how we can improve our regulatory services and foster stronger working relationships with you.”
The event also included technical presentations on how to access the portal, complete the registration process, and understand the benefits of compliance. It attracted participants from various sectors, including the Nigeria Customs Service, the Kaduna State Ministry of Innovation, Trade and Investment, the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), freight forwarding associations, commodity groups, and members of the Kaduna State Shippers’ Association