The Federal Government has directed the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to investigate allegations of marginalisation of local barge operators in the country.
This directive is aimed at addressing concerns raised by local barge operators, who complained of being unfairly treated and excluded from participating in the country’s maritime industry.
The situation has led to concerns about the impact on Nigeria’s economy and the livelihoods of those employed in the industry. Daily Trust had reported that indigenous barge operators are alleging marginalisation, claiming foreign interests are pushing them out of business at Apapa Port.
Specifically, the Barge Operators Association of Nigeria (BOAN) had accused some major terminal operators, of denying them access to berthing windows while favoring foreign Shipping firms. The Cabotage Act had reserved inland waterway operations for indigenous shipowners.
Speaking at the first quarter 2026 senior management retreat and stakeholders engagements held in Lagos at the weekend, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, directed the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to investigate allegations of systemic efforts to undermine local barge operators at the nation’s seaports.
