The Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON) has issued a formal plea to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging an immediate reduction of the 7% cargo clearance surcharge at Nigerian ports. The group says the levy is deepening the economic crisis and choking trade.
In a letter delivered to the Presidential Villa, APFFLON described the surcharge as an “unsustainable burden” on importers, exporters, and logistics operators. With inflation climbing, the Naira weakening, and businesses fighting to survive, the association warned that the cost of clearing cargo has reached record highs.
“The cost of clearing cargo is at an all-time high,” the association stated, warning that the surcharge is inflating import prices, disrupting supply chains, and pushing many legitimate businesses into financial distress.
APFFLON questioned the continued relevance of the surcharge, noting that most port terminals have been concessioned and are now operated by private entities. According to the group, port users receive no direct value or improved service from the surcharge, making its retention “questionable.”
While acknowledging the Federal Government’s efforts to boost revenue and improve infrastructure, APFFLON cautioned that overburdening trade stakeholders could stifle productivity, discourage formal trade, and fuel inflation.
The association outlined four key demands:
An immediate downward review of the 7% surcharge.
An audit of how surcharge funds are utilized.
Stakeholder consultations to develop a fair and inclusive port revenue model.
A harmonized and transparent port pricing system to eliminate overlapping levies and reduce bottlenecks.
APFFLON President, Frank Ogunojemite, emphasized that reducing the surcharge would demonstrate the administration’s commitment to inclusive economic recovery and ease of doing business.
“As professionals dedicated to the growth and integrity of Nigeria’s maritime sector, we stand ready to support all reform efforts that prioritize national interest and economic revival,” Ogunojemite said.
The appeal comes amid growing calls from industry stakeholders for regulatory reforms to ease trade and support Nigeria’s struggling economy.
