The Nigerian Shippers’ Council said it saved the economy N122.1 million, an equivalent of $108,363.02 through intervention in container deposit refund delays, excessive demurrage and detention charges, discrepancies in the bill of lading clauses and unexpected surcharges among other trade disputes at the ports in the first quarter of 2024.
He said the unit treated valid complaints in 2023 and recovered N362.1 million, while in 2022 it recovered N203.5 million. It recovered N2.5 billion in 2021 and N35.9 million in 2020. Mohammad further highlighted discrepancies in the bill of lading clauses, noting that many importers reportedly overlook or misunderstand these contractual terms, leading to disputes and penalties imposed by shipping companies for non-compliance.
On issues within the seaport terminals, Mohammad highlighted the arbitrary practices in storage allocation and delays in container examination, which exacerbate port congestion issues. Mohammed also disclosed alien charges and other contentious issues, which have been a focal point of the NSC’s efforts to mitigate financial burdens on stakeholders.