1. Nigerian Shippers’ Council Suspends Shipping Line Tariff Increases
In the Second Quarter of 2026 saw the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) directed all shipping companies and liner agencies to suspend recently introduced tariff hikes and revert to previous rates. The directive followed protests by freight forwarders in Lagos against shipping companies that proposed rate increases between 150% and 200%. The Council intervened to review the pricing structure, capping any eventual adjustments at 30% pending formal consultations. This action highlights the Council’s role as the economic regulator of the port sector prior to the enactment of the Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency Act, and its focus on preventing uncoordinated cost increases on port users. Consequently, freight operators must engage the NSC and complete statutory stakeholder consultations before implementing new local charges, while importers and exporters receive temporary relief from unapproved administrative surcharges while the tariff review is finalized.
2. NIMASA Launches Digital Seafarer Discharge Book Portal
In June 2026, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) launched its digital Seafarer Discharge Book Management Portal. The system digitizes the application, verification, and renewal of Seafarers’ Discharge Books (SDB) and Certificates of Competency (CoC), replacing paper-based processing. The portal supports NIMASA’s enforcement of Cabotage manning rules by establishing a database to verify sea-service records, eliminate forged credentials, and track local seafarer placement under the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP). Under this system, vessel operators and manning agencies must verify crew documents through the digital portal during Flag State and Port State inspections, enabling real-time credential checks that help prevent vessel clearance delays during coastal trade audits.
3. NLNG Management Unit Domesticates International Maritime Certifications
NLNG Ship Management Limited (NSML) announced in June 2026 that its Maritime Centre of Excellence (MCoE) in Bonny, Rivers State, secured international accreditation to deliver globally recognized maritime training locally. The facility is licensed by the UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and UK nautical institutions to offer Dynamic Positioning (DP) and specialized competency courses. By offering UK-accredited certifications domestically, the facility reduces the need for local seafarers to travel abroad for mandatory training. This development lowers training expenses for operators, helps preserve foreign exchange, and strengthens the pool of qualified local seafarers required for coastal and offshore vessel operations.
