Nigerian congestion forces ships to divert

THE MAIN ports in Nigeria are adding to their international reputation as shipping line schedule-busters - with vessel diversions now the order of the day (See page 11). With major congestion at the main ports of Tincan and Apapa - a result of the Nigerian customs' decision to examine every import consignment - ships are being diverted to other harbours. Containerships are being sent to the port of Onne, and ro-ro vessels to Harcourt. The decision was made on August 9, according to information released to FTW by SAAFF (SA Association of Freight Forwarders) - and the association expected diversions to last until sometime in September.