NSC Strikes; Targets Full Implementation Plan of ICTN Before Year Ends.

 By Stella Okocha 

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has set plans in motion to implement the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN), with the assurances of taking necessary steps to ensure a seamless and sustainable rollout before the end of 2026.

This was made known to stakeholders at the 2026 First Quarter Citizens/Stakeholders’ Engagement, on Thursday 2nd, April, by the Executive Secretary of the Council, Dr Pius Akutah, during the Sectoral Performance Review, and Ministerial Management Retreat held in Lagos.

The NSC boss stated that while the Nigeria Port Authority, NPA, is responsible for implementing the PCS, NSC has been mandated to drive the ICTN project; stating clearly the roles of key institutions in the port digitalisation ecosystem.

Dr Akutah also revealed that the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy has carried out extensive groundwork to facilitate the initiative; adding that significant progress has already been made.

He added that, presidential approval has been secured for the procurement process, which is currently underway.

“We have already obtained approval from the President to go ahead with the procurement process, and that is ongoing,” he said.

Explaining further, the NSC boss acknowledged the ICTN’s history of inconsistent implementation, describing it as “checkered,” but assured stakeholders that lessons have been learned from past experiences.

Dr Akutah insisted that the current administration is determined to break the cycle of repeated suspensions that have trailed the initiative over the years.

“The Minister is taking all necessary steps to ensure that this phase of implementation under his leadership will not be suspended,” he said.

He added that efforts are being intensified to address all lingering concerns and operational challenges before the final rollout.

“The ICTN is expected to enhance cargo visibility, improve trade transparency, and strengthen regulatory oversight within Nigeria’s maritime sector, when implemented” he said.

The ICTN initiative, which serves as an economic tracking tool, is projected to plug revenue leakages, track movement of Nigerian bound cargoes and boost government income, with estimated annual savings potential of up to ₦900 billion.

Industry stakeholders who have long advocates that its full implementation, has the potential to curb revenue leakages, improve security, and align Nigeria with global best practices in cargo tracking and port management.