Stakeholders in the maritime sector have called on the Federal Government to stand its ground, fully implement the Oronsaye report, and save the country the huge cost of governance instead of introducing or passing the Nigeria Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill.

The Nigeria Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill, according to maritime stakeholders, conflicts with the government’s plan to lower the cost of governance at a time when the country was battling with economic challenges was not the best idea.

Moves to get the bill passed through the National Assembly have resulted in a muted squabble in the sector as its regulators jostle for supremacy in a power play.

The House of Representatives Committee on Shipping Services and Related Matters held a one-day hearing on Monday, May 27, 2024, to gauge public feedback and input on repealing the Nigerian Shippers Council Act as a prelude to enacting the Nigerian Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill.

The Nigerian Shipping and Port Economic Regulatory Agency Bill 2023, with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass, as lead sponsor, passed its second reading in March 2024.