Oyetola Orders Review of Levies Charged by Agencies under Blue Economy Ministry
—Sets to Release Harmonised Port Charges
By DAPO OLAWUNI
Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy has said that the Ministry is reviewing all levies being collected by agencies under his ministry with a view to come up with harmonised charges for Nigerian Ports.
DAILY TREND reports that high port charges has been the bane of Nigeian port system, as well as arbitrary increases in cargo clearance cost by various port service providers, this has adversely affected the ease of doing business.
Speaking at the opening of a two-day training for freight forwarders in the South-East on Monday in Port Harcourt, Oyetola
represented by his technical adviser, Busayo Fakinlade, said a committee had been established to review all levies charged by agencies under the ministry.
“The ministry is committed to ensuring there are no multiple levies imposed on businesses within the maritime sub-sector,” Mr Oyetola said.
He added that consultations were ongoing with the Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Ports Authority, and Nigeria Shippers Council, among other agencies, to harmonise charges.
“Ultimately, a policy statement will be issued to advance the maritime sub-sector forward,” the minister added.