ICTN Comeback: NSC Pushes for Seamless Cargo Tracking by 2026 End

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) has reaffirmed its commitment to the full implementation of the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN), with plans to achieve a seamless and sustainable rollout before the end of 2026.
Executive Secretary of the Council, Pius Akutah, disclosed this on Thursday during the 2026 First Quarter Citizens/Stakeholders’ Engagement, Sectoral Performance Review, and Ministerial Management Retreat held in Lagos.
Akutah clarified the roles of key institutions in Nigeria’s port digitalisation drive, noting that while the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is responsible for the Port Community System (PCS), the NSC has been mandated to drive the ICTN project.
He revealed that considerable progress has been made, crediting the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy for laying the groundwork necessary to advance the initiative. According to him, presidential approval has already 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.
Addressing concerns over the ICTN’s past, Akutah described its implementation history as “checkered,” but assured stakeholders that lessons have been learned. He stressed that the current administration is determined to avoid the repeated suspensions that previously hindered the initiative.
“The Minister is taking all necessary steps to ensure that this phase of implementation under his leadership will not be suspended,” he added.
He further noted that efforts are ongoing to resolve lingering operational and stakeholder concerns ahead of the final rollout.
The ICTN, once fully implemented, is expected to significantly enhance cargo visibility, boost trade transparency, and strengthen regulatory oversight across Nigeria’s maritime sector. Industry stakeholders have consistently advocated for its adoption, citing its potential to curb revenue leakages, improve security, and align Nigeria with global best practices in cargo tracking and port management.