Shipping tariff hike suspension not a victory yet – APFFLON warns stakeholders

The Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON), has expressed appreciation to freight forwarders and industry players who resisted and took decisive actions regarding the recent shipping tariff hike.

A statement by the President of APFFLON, Frank Ogunojemite, noted that while the announcement by the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to halt the shipping tariff hike may appear as a win for the industry, it is merely a tactical retreat under pressure—not a genuine resolution.

“We have seen this pattern before. Announcements are made, but in reality, shipping companies quietly proceed with implementation, exploiting ” enforcement and regulatory gaps. This must not happen again.

“Let it be clearly stated: Any attempt—direct or indirect—to impose these illegal and unjustified charges will be met with total resistance from freight forwarders nationwide.

“The Executive Secretary’s message alone is not enough. What matters to Nigerians is visible enforcement, strict compliance, and immediate reversal of any hidden or backdoor charges already introduced.

“Our position are Non-Negotiable: No implementation of tariff increases in any guise
No backdoor charges or disguised fees
Full compliance by all shipping companies without exception
Immediate sanctions for defaulters

“We must not forget that these arbitrary increases: Strangle Nigerian businesses
Worsen inflation and economic hardship
Sabotage the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda
Exploit already suffering Nigerian importers and consumers

“This is no longer just a maritime issue—this is an economic battle for Nigeria’s survival.”

APFFLON therefore calls on all stakeholders to remain vigilant at all ports and resist any attempt to enforce illegal charges.

It also charged stakeholders to report non-compliant shipping companies immediately and stand united—because division is their advantage

“We also call on the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to move beyond statements and prove its authority through decisive enforcement actions. Anything short of this will confirm the fears of stakeholders that regulatory institutions are being undermined, ” the group stated.

The association warned that freight forwarders will not sit back and watch the system be manipulated again, maintaining that, “Enough is enough. Compliance is not optional.”