Nigerian importers who divert their cargo to neighbouring ports such as Cotonou, Republic of Benin, save about N4 million per container compared to Lagos ports.

The Importers Association of Nigeria (IMAN), which disclosed this, said the rising shipping and port charges in Nigeria are forcing importers to divert cargo from Lagos ports to Cotonou, where they save between N3 million and N4 million from clearing a container.

The Acting Chairman, IMAN, South West Zone, Joseph Ajoku, lamented that the cost of clearing goods through Apapa Port has become significantly higher than alternative routes, making ports in neighbouring countries more attractive and influencing key logistics decisions.

Ajoku said many importers are now routing their consignments through Cotonou port to cut costs.

“Most times, the cost of clearing in Apapa is so high that we decide to move our cargo to Cotonou. When we compare, we see a difference of about N3 million to N4 million on a single container,” he said.

According to him, the development is a direct consequence of the recent freight rate increments imposed by shipping companies and high tariff on port charges, which have continued despite ongoing consultations with stakeholders.

Ajoku lamented that engagements with shipping lines have yet to produce any relief, as operators maintain their position on the increases.

The IMAN leader stressed that importers bear the brunt of rising costs, as charges from shipping companies and clearing agents are ultimately passed on to them.

“All the burden are on the importers. We are the ones at the receiving end,” he added.

Ajoku also reiterated concerns over the lack of transparency in the pricing structure, accusing both shipping companies and freight forwarders of failing to provide cost templates to justify the increases.

He warned that unless urgent steps are taken to address high port costs, Nigeria risks losing more cargo traffic to neighbouring countries, further undermining its competitiveness in regional maritime trade.

He further warned that continued cargo diversions could lead to significant revenue losses for Nigeria and weaken port operations.