The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has unveiled an online portal for the registration of all regulated port users and operators. This initiative aims to establish and maintain a comprehensive database of port stakeholders in the country.
The registration process enables the nation’s port economic regulator to have accurate information on genuine service providers, shippers, and other stakeholders operating within the Nigerian port system.
During the launch event, Emmanuel Jime, the Executive Secretary of NSC, emphasized that this milestone signifies the council’s transition from manual to fully automated registration procedures.
“The interactive nature of the platform eliminates the need for physical visits. From the comfort of your office, you can register your company online, provided you meet the requirements and make the necessary payments,” said Jime.
He further explained that the registration exercise encompasses various categories and involves a nominal fee. The primary objective is not revenue generation but rather ensuring compliance. All service providers and users are required to register and obtain a certificate of registration to be recognized as legally operating within the nation’s seaports. Failure to register may result in applicable sanctions.
Jime emphasized that the new platform guarantees a safe and secure business environment while addressing the challenges posed by faceless stakeholders in the port system.
Director of consumer affairs at NSC, Chief Cajetan Agu, highlighted that one of the responsibilities bestowed upon NSC as the nation’s port economic regulator since 2014 is the obligation to register all port operators and users.
“NSC provides a range of services related to training, education, and capacity building programs. These services will only be accessible to those who are registered with NSC,” remarked Agu.
He also emphasized that the online registration serves as a Know-Your-Customer (KYC) function of the Council, putting an end to the era of anonymous shippers, untraceable freight forwarders, and hidden service providers.
Agu further stated that the NSC’s Complaints Unit, responsible for addressing stakeholders’ challenges in port business and providing arbitration services, will henceforth be available exclusively to operators and port users registered with the Council.
Director-general of the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping (NCS), Vivian Chimezie-Azubuike, commended the NSC for this initiative, describing it as a significant achievement for the nation’s maritime sector. Chimezie-Azubuike also suggested that the NSC should conduct more awareness campaigns to ensure broader participation among industry stakeholders.
