Nigeria Urged to Use Maritime Levy for Local Transport

Lucky Amiwero, National President of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to direct NIMASA to use its 3 percent freight levy to fund loans for indigenous maritime operators and customs agents. Amiwero argues the existing Maritime Fund, established to bolster local shipping and infrastructure, has not met its goals.

He points to specific sections of the NIMASA Act that mandate the agency to promote indigenous shipping and develop related infrastructure. Currently, the levy, funded by importers and agents, isn’t benefiting those local operators who need modern equipment.

Many Nigerian transport operators rely on aging trucks and barges, leading to delays, higher costs, and safety concerns. Amiwero suggests a revolving loan scheme to replace this obsolete equipment and improve cargo evacuation from ports. He notes that other nations, like the United States, support their maritime sectors through similar financial incentives.