By David Oladimeji
Preparations are in top gear as the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, in collaboration with the Shippers Association Lagos State (SALS), sets the stage for the second edition of its flagship event, Shippers Day Celebration.
The annual gathering, which has steadily grown into one of the sector’s most anticipated conversations, is scheduled to hold on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at Rock View Hotel in Apapa, Lagos.
This year’s edition is themed “Challenges between Revenue Generation and Trade Facilitation: The Single Window—Simplifying Trade Process for Nigerian Shippers.”
According to organisers, the focus on the Single Window system reflects a renewed push within the maritime and trade ecosystem to streamline Nigeria’s complex cargo-handling procedures.
Stakeholders say the system, once fully operational, could significantly reduce processing times, eliminate paperwork bottlenecks and improve transparency across the nation’s ports.
The event will also examine how the government can balance aggressive revenue generation with the urgent need for trade facilitation.
Industry analysts note that this conversation is particularly crucial as Nigeria seeks to strengthen its competitiveness in regional and global markets.
Prominent government figures are expected to headline this year’s gathering, underscoring its national importance.
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, will serve as Special Guest of Honour and is expected to outline new policy pathways for trade efficiency.
Also expected is the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Hon. Adegboyega Oyetola, who will speak on ongoing maritime reforms and port modernisation efforts.
The President of SALS, Rev. Nicodemus Odolo, who will host the event, said the celebration aims to push for a more seamless, technology-driven trade environment.
“Our goal is simple—we must simplify trade for every Nigerian shipper,” he said.
The Chief Host and Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Barr. Pius Ukeyima Akuta, MON, is expected to highlight the agency’s latest initiatives on regulatory clarity and improved port operations.
According to organisers, the event will bring together importers, exporters, freight forwarders, port operators, regulators and policymakers for a full day of high-level dialogue.
Participants are encouraged to arrive by 10 a.m. for what is being described as one of the most strategic industry conversations of the year.
With expectations rising across the maritime sector, the 2025 Shippers Day appears set to provide fresh insights and renewed momentum for trade reforms in Nigeria.
