The Shipping Association of Nigeria (SAN) has dragged the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) before the National Assembly over persistent operational inefficiencies, limited infrastructure for marine services and security lapses that places additional cost and continue to undermine port competitiveness and investor confidence.

Speaking before the House Committee on Shipping Services, the Chairman of SAN, Boma Alabi, said the NPA has failed to provide adequate functional tugboats and pilotage services, which are critical for safe vessel navigation.

Alabi said shipping companies are frequently forced to make alternative arrangements to move vessels at additional cost.

She said the situation is worsened by what she describes as “double billing”, where charges are imposed for services of tugboats and pilotage not rendered, even when private alternatives are sourced to facilitate vessel movement.

“Tugboats and pilotage services are statutory responsibilities of the NPA and are critical to safe and efficient vessel movements. 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. These challenges negatively affect vessel turnaround time and overall port efficiency, charging for services not rendered,” he lamented.

Alabi said the double billing is without clear reform or credit mechanism, saying charges should strictly be based on services delivered in line with global maritime best practices

The shipping companies also highlighted growing concerns over port security, particularly the recurring problem of stowaways boarding vessels undetected.

“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,” Alabi said.

According to her, the development often leads to heavy financial implications including fines, diversion costs, crew management challenges and reputational damage for shipping companies operating from Nigerian ports.

She said shipping companies are often held responsible for situations that are largely security related and beyond their operational control.

Alabi called for stronger and more coordinated port security measures, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, stronger surveillance systems and a clearly defined responsibility framework to address the issue and prevent undue liability on operators.

Despite the challenges, Alabi reaffirmed the ship companies’ commitment to collaborating with the National Assembly and relevant stakeholders to strengthen the nation’s blue economy.

SAN urged the House Committee to support and intervene decisively in addressing the highlighted concerns to improve efficiency, reduce costs and enhance the country’s standing as a competitive maritime hub.