Shippers Council Headquarters Faces Severe Structural Damages, As Lawmaker Tackles CBN to Refund 50% Revenue Deductions

By DAPO OLAWUNI

The House of Representatives has been urged to investigate the non-release of funds owed to the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), a critical revenue-generating agency of the Federal Government.
This call was made last week by Rep. Ahmad Sani Muhammad, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Shipping Services, during a plenary session.

In his motion, Rep. Muhammad highlighted the deteriorating state of the Council’s headquarters, citing severe structural damages and a leaking roof that pose significant risks to the lives of staff and visitors.

He expressed concern over the agency’s financial challenges, which stem from its misclassification, delayed payments, and the non-refund of a 50% deduction made from its funds in December 2023.

“The Nigerian Shippers’ Council, despite its revenue-generating status, faces persistent underfunding. This financial neglect not only hampers its operations but also endangers its workforce and undermines its efficiency,” he stated.

Rep. Muhammad urged the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to immediately refund the deductions and release all outstanding funds to alleviate the suffering of staff and retirees.

He emphasized that the Council’s capacity to perform its statutory functions effectively depends on adequate funding and the restoration of financial stability.

The lawmaker’s call has drawn attention to the plight of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council and its role in facilitating maritime trade and contributing to national revenue. The motion has been referred to the relevant committees for further investigation and action.

Rep. Ahmad Sani Muhammad represents the Bakura/Maradun Federal Constituency of Zamfara State.