The Nigerian Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) Bill has been passed by the National Assembly and now awaits Presidential assent to become law.
This was disclosed by the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Pius Akutah, during the 2025 Operational Retreat for Middle Managers of the Council, held at the Conference Hotel in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Akutah stated that the passage of the NPERA Bill reflects the current administration’s commitment to establishing a structured and efficient port regulatory framework.
He explained that the proposed law would create a strong and independent regulatory regime with enforceable legal powers, including the authority for criminal prosecution—something the existing legal framework lacks.
“The NPERA Bill is a significant step towards addressing regulatory challenges and aligns with the broader vision of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy,” Akutah said, adding that the leadership of Minister Adegboyega Oyetola has brought renewed energy and focus to the sector.
He reaffirmed the Shippers’ Council’s commitment to protecting industry stakeholders by tackling arbitrary charges, improving dispute resolution mechanisms, and enhancing stakeholder engagement.
Also speaking at the retreat, Director of Planning, Rotimi Anifowose, described middle management as the “powerhouse” of the Council. He urged participants to seize the opportunity to learn from industry experts and refine their operational effectiveness.
“As middle managers of the Shippers’ Council, you are the engine of our operations,” Anifowose noted. “You bridge the gap between strategy and execution, keeping systems running, people motivated, and results delivered.”
The retreat, according to organizers, will focus on optimizing internal workflows, people strategies, and overall system efficiency in line with the Council’s evolving regulatory role.