The Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), through its Complaints Unit, has suspended Old Reliable Agency Limited from interfacing with PIL shipping company for a period of one year.
This action follows a violent incident involving a representative of the agency, which occurred at PIL’s headquarters in Apapa, Lagos.
According to an in-house periodic published by the Council, Old Reliable Agency Limited has been officially placed on a watch-list, saying that future violations will lead to license revocation and blacklisting.
The agency is suspended from all dealings with PIL Shipping Company for a 12-month period.
The Head of the Complaints Unit, Dr. Bashir Ambi, acting on behalf of the Executive Secretary/CEO, Akutah Pius Ukeyima, who welcomed both parties to a mediation meeting , reaffirmed NSC’s commitment to upholding fairness through its Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) framework.
As part of ongoing succession efforts within the Council, Dr. Ambi delegated the mediation session to Barr. Musa Mohammed (Senior Legal Officer), who chaired the proceedings.
The complaint originated from a formal letter submitted by Mr. Nesh Nair, General Manager (Commercial) of PIL Shipping Company. According to the letter, on February 11, 2025, Mr. Gabriel—an agent of Old Reliable and Logistics Services representing Classic Diamond (Consignee)—visited their office to process cargo release. During the interaction, he was notified of a pending payment at PIL’s Onne Office and advised that an invoice was being prepared.
Despite this, the agent reportedly became aggressive and broke a glass door at the company’s premises. Though he later pleaded for leniency, PIL deemed the behavior unacceptable, citing concerns for staff safety and decorum.
In response, PIL initially imposed a permanent business ban on both the agent and consignee and formally requested NSC to enforce a permanent ban on the agency.
The Council expressed disappointment upon discovering that Old Reliable Agency Ltd had previously been reported by another shipping company (Hull Blyth/Arkas Line) over container-related disputes and payment defaults. That case had similarly led to shipment blockage and required Council intervention for resolution. Given the recurrence, NSC expressed serious concern over the agency’s pattern of misconduct.
After a thorough review of submitted documents, party statements, and corroborating evidence, the Council resolved the matter as follows; whilst strongly condemning the unethical and violent behavior of the agent, which it considers unprofessional and unacceptable in the industry.
The consignee, Classic Diamond, must appoint a new licensed agent to complete cargo clearance. All demurrage costs incurred will be borne by the consignee.
PIL must allow the consignee 48 hours to appoint a new agent and take delivery of the shipment.
Old Reliable Agency must submit an official apology to NSC and PIL, expressing regret and affirming compliance with industry standards.
Non-compliance with these resolutions will lead to the agency being blacklisted through the Nigeria Customs Service.
NSC encourages PIL Shipping Company and the consignee to continue their commercial relationship under agency representation.
In conclusion, the NSC reaffirms its dedication to promoting a disciplined and accountable maritime industry. It calls on all industry players to uphold professionalism and abide by established protocols.
The parties involved expressed gratitude for the Council’s timely intervention and resolutions.
