The Maritime Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has announced a high-level roundtable discussion on February 27 to address the controversies surrounding the proposed reintroduction of the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN).
According to MARAN President, Mr. Godfrey Bivbere, the event, scheduled to take place at the MARAN International Press Center in Apapa, aims to bring together key maritime industry stakeholders, government agencies, and trade experts to dissect the pros and cons of the ICTN and explore a lasting resolution to the ongoing debate.
“Since the news of ICTN’s reintroduction surfaced, it has sparked serious division in the maritime sector, with proponents and opponents passionately arguing their positions. MARAN, in its advocacy role, is facilitating this dialogue to bridge the divide and move the industry forward,” Bivbere stated.
Key Stakeholders and Government Agencies Set to Weigh In
The roundtable will feature discussions from renowned maritime experts, importers, and shipping stakeholders, including:
- Dr. Eugene Nweke (Sea Empowerment and Research Center – SEREC)
- Dr. Segun Musa (Managing Director, Widescope Group)
- Dr. Alban Igwe (Importers Association of Nigeria)
- A Representative of the Shippers’ Association Lagos State (SALS)
Two critical government agencies will also be presenting their perspectives:
- The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), which currently manages the ICTN project, will deliver a paper on “Prospects and Challenges of the Proposed ICTN: NSC’s Perspective.”
- The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), the former custodian of the ICTN, will also provide insights on “Prospects and Challenges of the Proposed ICTN: NPA’s Perspective.”
A Sector in Need of Clarity
The ICTN, a globally recognized cargo tracking system aimed at enhancing transparency, curbing smuggling, and boosting government revenue, has faced strong opposition from some industry players who argue that its reintroduction could lead to increased costs and bureaucratic bottlenecks.
Bivbere emphasized that the roundtable is crucial to resolve industry concerns and ensure that the ICTN implementation—if approved—aligns with the interests of all stakeholders and the economic development of Nigeria.
“The maritime sector is a critical pillar of Nigeria’s economy. We need clear policies and stakeholder alignment to foster efficiency and trade growth,” he added.
