The ES/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr Pius Akutah, has urged freight forwarders to adopt dialogue as a constructive way of resolving their grievances, rather than resorting to industrial actions that could jeopardise the nation’s economy.

Dr Akutah made this appeal in response to the picketing of the offices of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) by freight forwarders protesting the recent increase in shipping line tariffs.

Despite the protests, the Council’s attempt to engage the aggrieved freight forwarders in discussions was met with resistance, as the protesters insisted there was no basis for dialogue.

They also vowed to continue the protest on Monday until the increased charges are immediately reversed.

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council boss emphasised that dialogue remains the most effective and modern dispute resolution mechanism, noting that it is faster, more humane, and more productive than what he described as a “bottled anger approach.”

He warned that prolonged industrial disputes in the maritime sector could disrupt port operations and adversely impact trade and economic activity.

While acknowledging stakeholders’ right to express their concerns, the Council condemned what it described as the unprofessional conduct of some freight forwarders, particularly their blocking regulators from accessing the MSC premises to address the matter.

Dr Akutah also recalled that during a similar protest over the same tariff increment a few weeks earlier, the Council intervened and compelled MSC to suspend the collection of the disputed charges for two days while discussions were ongoing.

He reiterated the Council’s commitment to mediating between shipping companies and freight forwarders to ensure fair practices and stability within the maritime industry.