The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has reiterated its commitment to implementing the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN), emphasizing its role in trade facilitation, cost reduction, and national security enhancement.
During a recent media briefing in Lagos, Pius Akutah, CEO/Executive Secretary of NSC, represented by Celestine Akujobi, Director of Consumer Affairs, assured stakeholders that the ICTN is not a new initiative but a system the Council has successfully managed in the past before its suspension.
ICTN: A Game-Changer for Trade Facilitation
Akutah emphasized that ICTN is designed to enhance cargo monitoring and eliminate revenue leakages rather than merely generate revenue. He reassured that the system would work in synergy with existing agencies, including the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), without duplicating their functions.
“The ICTN is not just a revenue tool; it is a trade facilitation system aimed at improving efficiency, cutting costs, and bolstering national security,” Akutah stated.
Global Adoption & Nigeria’s Readiness
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) initially recommended ICTN for developing nations to track cargo movement from the port of origin to its destination. Today, over 20 countries across West and Central Africa have successfully implemented the system.
Akutah noted that Nigeria previously operated ICTN successfully before its suspension and is now better prepared to execute it effectively.
Addressing Cost & Stakeholder Concerns
While concerns have been raised about potential cost implications, Akutah assured that any additional charges would be minimal and absorbed within the trade system. He stressed that the initiative would ultimately benefit shippers, the government, and the broader economy.
“The federal government is committed to trade facilitation, not imposing burdens on businesses. ICTN will enhance cargo transparency without significantly increasing costs,” he explained.
With the NSC fully backing its reimplementation, the ICTN is poised to streamline cargo tracking, boost efficiency, and strengthen Nigeria’s trade security framework.
