Shipping Firms Accuse NPA of Poor Services and Insecurity at Nigerian Ports
The Shipping Association of Nigeria (SAN) has formally brought the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) before the National Assembly, citing persistent operational inefficiencies, limited infrastructure for marine services, and significant security lapses. These issues are placing additional financial burdens on shipping companies and undermining the competitiveness of Nigerian ports, as well as eroding investor confidence in the maritime sector.
Operational Challenges and Double Billing
During a session with the House Committee on Shipping Services, SAN Chairman Boma Alabi highlighted critical failures in the provision of essential services. Alabi stated that the NPA has consistently failed to supply adequate functional tugboats and pilotage services, which are vital for the safe navigation of vessels within port areas. As a result, shipping companies are frequently compelled to make alternative arrangements at their own expense to ensure vessel movements, leading to increased operational costs.
Alabi further criticized what she termed "double billing", a practice where charges are imposed for tugboat and pilotage services that are not actually rendered. Even when private alternatives are sourced to facilitate vessel movement, shipping lines still face these unjust fees. "Tugboats and pilotage services are statutory responsibilities of the NPA and are critical to safe and efficient vessel movements," Alabi emphasized. "Some members continue to experience inadequate availability of functional tugboats and pilot boats. In many cases, shipping lines are compelled to make alternative arrangements at additional costs to keep vessels moving and ensure safety."
She lamented that these challenges negatively affect vessel turnaround times and overall port efficiency, with companies being charged for services not delivered. Alabi called for reforms to ensure that charges are strictly based on services rendered, aligning with global maritime best practices, and urged the establishment of a clear credit mechanism to address overcharges.
Security Lapses and Stowaway Incidents
In addition to operational inefficiencies, SAN raised serious concerns about port security, particularly the recurring problem of stowaways boarding vessels undetected. Alabi pointed out that this issue poses significant risks and financial implications for shipping companies. "Stowaway and port security challenges. Another major challenge confronting shipping agents is the persistent issue of stowaways in Nigerian ports. Some members continue to experience stowaway boarding vessels without detection, delays in vessel departure while investigations and disembarkation are carried out," she explained.
The consequences of these security breaches are severe, often resulting in heavy financial penalties, diversion costs, crew management challenges, and reputational damage for the affected shipping companies. Alabi argued that shipping firms are frequently held responsible for situations that are largely security-related and beyond their operational control. She called for stronger and more coordinated port security measures, including enhanced inter-agency collaboration, improved surveillance systems, and a clearly defined responsibility framework to prevent undue liability on operators.
Call for Legislative Intervention
Despite these challenges, Alabi reaffirmed the commitment of shipping companies to collaborate with the National Assembly and other relevant stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria's blue economy. SAN urged the House Committee on Shipping Services to support and intervene decisively in addressing the highlighted concerns. The association emphasized that such interventions are crucial to improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing Nigeria's standing as a competitive maritime hub in the region.
The ongoing dialogue between SAN and the National Assembly underscores the urgent need for systemic reforms in Nigeria's maritime sector to foster a more secure, efficient, and cost-effective port environment.
