Nigerian Shippers’ Council to implement ICTN second quarter of 2025

The Executive Secretary of Nigerian Shippers’ Council, NSC, Pius Akutah, has stated that the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) will be implemented by the second quarter of 2025.

Akutah also disclosed that the Council’s 2025 budget will be anchored on the one per cent freight stabilization fee based on provisions in its current law.

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.

The Shippers Council boss expressed optimism that the Council will soon transmute into the Nigerian Shipping and Ports Economic Regulatory Agency, NPERA.

He noted that contrary to believe that the implementation of the Freight Stabilization Fee would introduce additional costs at the ports, he further stressed that the situation is akin to choosing what aspect of the Act to implement as the one per cent Freight Stabilization Fee was captured the Council’s 1978 Act.

His words: “Looking ahead, the Council’s 2025 budget is strategically anchored on the one per cent 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.

“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.