Importers Decry Arbitrary Charges at Nigerian Ports

Importers and freight stakeholders have raised alarm over arbitrary charges at Nigerian seaports, warning that the practice is driving up costs and undermining competitiveness in the maritime sector.

The complaints focus on terminal operators whose concession licences under the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) expired in 2021 but who continue to impose multiple fees.

While the port concession programme launched in 2000 was meant to modernise infrastructure and reduce congestion, importers say hidden charges have become routine.

“We are being forced to pay arbitrary charges that are not approved by regulatory authorities. This is exploitation,” said exporter Ikechukwu Anthony, citing unexplained fees of $300 and $100.

Clearing agents also report hidden costs during regulatory inspections, raising concerns about transparency.

Charges include terminal handling fees, container demurrage, documentation fees, environmental levies, and certification costs.

Industry comparisons show Nigerian ports are far more expensive than regional peers. Vessel berthing charges can reach $150,000–$200,000 per call, compared with far lower costs in Ghana’s Tema or Togo’s Lomé. Terminal handling in Lagos averages $457 per container, versus $284 in Tema and $180 in Durban.

Daily demurrage rates are also steep, with importers paying up to ₦68,500 per day for a 40-foot container, compared with $20–$30 in neighbouring ports.

Operational inefficiencies compound the problem, with vessel turnaround averaging 5–7 days in Nigeria versus 3–4 days in Lomé and Tema.

Responding to the concerns, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) directed shipping companies and terminal operators to engage clearing agents before implementing tariff hikes.

Executive Secretary Pius Akutah stressed that decisions must be guided by compromise and mutual understanding.

Stakeholders say stronger enforcement and transparent frameworks are needed to stabilise port operations, reduce costs, and restore Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional maritime trade.