Shippers Council Commends Shipping Coys on Demurrage Suspension
*Announces resumption of work for categories of officers
The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) weekend commended the shipping companies for their cooperation in complying with the suspension of demurrage on cargoes that landed on terminals from March 30, 2020 up to May 3, 2020.
The ports economic regulator described this as a testament to their goodwill towards Nigeria and its economy.
The Council in a statement signed by the Head , Public Relations, Mrs Rakiya Zubairu, however noted that some freight forwarders and shippers have difficulties with regard to the issue of refund of demurrage charges and are still billed despite the suspension.
The affected freight forwarders were encouraged to contact the Council through the Helplines and e-mail addresses published on the NSC website (www.shipperscouncil.gov.ng) and other social media handles.
Meanwhile, the NSC has announced resumption of duties for some categories of officers.
In a circular sent to staff, the Council said
The resumption will be phased with Directors, Deputy Directors and Heads of Divisions to report on Monday 4th May 2020.
The circular which was signed by the Executive Secretary, Mr Hassan Bello, reads:
“The resumption date of officers on levels 14 and 15 will be announced in due course.
“The office will operate 3 times a week only on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Working hours will be 9 am to 2 pm.
“During this weekend the office will be disinfected, fumigated and decontaminated. Same will apply to our buses.
“There shall be issued a complete protocol on social distancing, hygiene and other health guidelines and conduct at work. The Medical Unit and the HR Department will issue the guidelines and monitor compliance.
“Transportation to and from work will similarly be guided by health protocols and advisories.
“For those who are outside Lagos and may find it difficult to resume, they should stay put until circumstances become easier. They should work from wherever they may be.
“The above is applicable to all the zonal offices but subject to the rules prescribed by the state governments. For example Kano is in lock down, and so staff are to obey strictly the directives of the state government.
“The resumption is for officers on Grade Level 14 and above but we are phasing the resumption starting with officers on Levels 16 and 17 first, and subsequently 14 and 15.
“The date for resumption of Levels 14 and 15 will be announced very soon.
Please stay safe and observe personal hygiene, physical distancing and wearing of face masks.
And stay at home unless it is absolutely necessary for you to go out”.
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