Section 3: Functions of the Council.

The functions of the Council shall be-(a) to provide a forum for the protection of the interest of shippers on matters affecting the shipment of imports and exports to and from Nigeria;
(b) to provide a forum for consultation between Conference and non-Conference Lines, tramp-owners, the Nigerian Ports Authority and the Government of the Federation on matters of common interest;
(c) to encourage the formation of shippers' associations all over the country;
(d) to liaise with the appropriate arms of the Government of the Federation and other organisations in assessing the stability and adequacy of existing services and make appropriate recommendations in that behalf;
(e) to advise the Government of the Federation through the Minister on matters relating to the structure of freight rates, availability and adequacy of shipping space, frequency of sailings, terms of shipment, class and quality of vessels, port charges and facilities and other related matters;
(f) to negotiate and enter into agreements with Conference Lines, and non-Conference Lines, ship-owners, the Nigerian Ports Authority and any other bodies on matters affecting the interests of shippers;
(g) to consider the problems faced by shippers with regards to coastal transport, inland waterways transport and matters relating generally to the transportation of goods by water and advise Government on possible solutions thereto;
(h) to promote and encourage the study of and research into problems affecting shippers in Nigeria;
(i) to arrange from time to time seminars and conferences on any matter relating to its functions; and
(j) to carry out such other activities as are conducive to the discharge of its functions under this Act.