The Nigeria Ports Economic Regulatory Agency (NPERA) has officially commenced operations as the new statutory body responsible for economic regulation of Nigeria’s ports.
The agency’s establishment follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s assent to the Nigeria Ports Economic Regulatory Agency Bill, 2026.
NPERA Governing Board Chairman, Dr. Ibrahim Shema, described the development as a major reform of Nigeria’s port governance, marking the latest stage in the country’s nearly five-decade journey toward dedicated port economic regulation.
He explained that the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, established in 1978, was designated as the interim Port Economic Regulator in 2014 after the concessioning of port terminals in 2006.
Under the new law, NPERA will oversee port tariffs and charges, licensing, service standards, fair competition, commercial dispute resolution, trade facilitation and the protection of port users.
Shema stressed that the agency would not compete with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), which remains responsible for port infrastructure and landlord functions.
He said NPERA would focus on creating a more transparent, predictable and competitive port environment while reducing regulatory uncertainty and improving cargo movement.
The agency identified transparency, fairness, predictability, efficiency and accountability as key principles guiding its operations.
Shema also promised clearer tariff regulations, improved dispute-resolution mechanisms and increased use of digital platforms for licensing, monitoring, compliance and stakeholder engagement.
He assured stakeholders that the transition from the Nigerian Shippers’ Council to NPERA would be orderly and designed to minimise disruptions to existing operations.
Meanwhile, NPERA Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Pius Akutah, expressed confidence that the new framework would significantly improve the regulatory environment within the next one to two years.
Akutah said the agency would promote fair pricing, strengthen competition, improve trade facilitation, boost government revenue and protect the interests of port users.
He added that the NPERA Act provides stronger powers for resolving commercial disputes and improving conditions for businesses operating within the port sector.
The agency’s commencement is expected to bring greater clarity to tariffs, licensing, service standards and commercial disputes while supporting investment and strengthening Nigeria’s position as a competitive trading destination.
