The Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Pius Akutah, has called on freight forwarders to adopt dialogue as a more constructive approach to resolving disputes, warning against industrial actions that could disrupt the nation’s economy.
Akutah made the appeal while reacting to the picketing of the offices of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) by aggrieved freight forwarders protesting recent increases in shipping line tariffs.
Despite efforts by the Council to engage the protesters, the freight forwarders reportedly rejected dialogue, insisting there was no basis for negotiations. The group also vowed to continue the protest until the increased charges are reversed.
The NSC boss emphasised that dialogue remains the most effective and modern dispute resolution mechanism, describing it as faster, more humane, and more productive than what he termed a “bottled anger approach.”
He warned that prolonged industrial disputes within the maritime sector could disrupt port operations, with far-reaching consequences for trade and economic activities.
While recognising the right of stakeholders to express grievances, Akutah condemned what he described as unprofessional conduct by some protesters, particularly the obstruction of regulators from gaining access to MSC premises to address the situation.
He recalled that during a similar protest over the tariff hike a few weeks earlier, the Council intervened and compelled MSC to suspend the collection of the disputed charges for two days to allow room for discussions.
Akutah reiterated the Council’s commitment to mediating between shipping companies and freight forwarders to ensure fairness, stability, and sustained growth within Nigeria’s maritime industry.
