Controversy Surrounds Nigeria Shipping Bill Amid Economic Concerns
The Nigeria Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill has sparked controversy among maritime stakeholders, who argue that it contradicts the government’s efforts to reduce governance costs.
According to Anozie Egole, concerns have been raised within the sector that the government should prioritize implementing the Oronsaye Report, which recommends consolidating agencies with overlapping functions to streamline operations and reduce expenditure as critics contend that pushing forward with the Nigeria Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill during a period of economic hardship is ill-timed.
In response, maritime stakeholders have urged the Federal Government to uphold its commitment to implementing the Oronsaye Report fully. They argue that this approach would effectively cut down on the substantial costs associated with governance.
Recently, the House of Representatives Committee on Shipping Services and Related Matters convened a one-day public hearing to gather public input on the potential repeal of the Nigerian Shippers Council Act. This is seen as a precursor to advancing the Nigerian Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill.
