NSC Retreat: Akutah affirms implementation of ICTN in Q2 2025, anchors budget on 1% Freight Stabilization Fee

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) is set to anchor 2025 Budget On 1% Freight Stabilization Fee and implement the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) in the second quarter of 2025,

The Executive Secretary of Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Barr. Pius Akutah MON, speaking at the 2025-2029 strategic management retreat for the Council in Ibadan on Wednesday.

The 1% freight stabilization fee Akutah said is based on provisions stipulated in its current law.

Akutah also expressed optimism that the Council will soon transmute into the Nigerian Shipping and Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA).

Noting the concerns that the implementation of the Freight Stabilization Fee would introduce additional costs at the ports, Akutah said the situation is akin choosing what aspect of the Act to implement as the 1% Freight Stabilization Fee was captured the Council’s 1978 Act.

His words: “Looking ahead, the Council’s 2025 budget is strategically anchored on the 1% freight stabilization fee, with plans to commence its collection upon Presidential assent to the NPERA bill.

“Our focus during this retreat will revolve around four strategic priorities which include; strengthening stakeholder engagement to foster inclusivity and collaboration, promoting transparency and fairness through predictable regulatory policies, enhancing operational efficiency to prepare for a seamless transition to NPERA, and driving sustainability by aligning economic growth with environmental responsibility.”

Barr. Akutah, who was speaking at the Council’s 2025 Management Retreat in Ibadan, on Tuesday stressed that the retreat is a value opportunity for the management to step back to reflect on achievements and plan for greater accomplishments.

Meanwhile, he added that under the guidance of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, the international Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) is scheduled for implementation in the second quarter of 2025, setting the stage for enhanced revenue generation and operational oversight.

“As the program outlines, each Directorate has a clearly defined role, emphasizing the hands-on approach required to implement NPERA successfully. Let us seize this opportunity to shape a future of innovation, excellence, and progress,” he posited.

The three days retreat will end on January 25, 2025, with deliberations from key stakeholders and presentations by the Council’s directorates on the roles required to achieve the successful transition to NPERA aimed at advancing the maritime sector .