Lagos importers face huge losses as container delays worsen
Nigerian importers and stakeholders are raising alarms over mounting financial losses caused by the ongoing blockage of containers at Lagos ports. Accusations have been levelled against the Maritime Police for detaining containers that have already been cleared by relevant authorities, leading to costly delays and eroding trust in the port system. Industry leaders and associations are calling for an end to these practices, citing a 2022 executive order that prohibits such post-clearance interventions. The Nigerian Shippers’ Council has pledged to address complaints and protect cargo interests.
TLDR
- Over 1,500 containers worth billions of naira are reportedly blocked each month at Lagos ports, according to stakeholders on June 1, 2024.
- Babatunde Keshiro and other industry leaders say detaining cleared containers leads to excessive demurrage, storage fees, and contract defaults.
- The Maritime Police defend the practice as necessary for national security, citing recent seizures of illegal goods.
- The Nigerian Shippers’ Council, led by Dr Pius Akutah, urges stakeholders to report extortion and promises to intervene.
- Calls continue for strict enforcement of the 2022 executive order banning post-clearance container blockages.
