Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has firmly distanced itself and its members from the planned shutdown of operations at Apapa Port, warning that such an action would harm Nigeria’s economy and undermine ongoing reforms in the maritime industry.
In a statement signed by its National President, Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, NAGAFF emphasized that it remains committed to constructive engagement, lawful advocacy, and professional conduct in resolving industry grievances.
The association described the proposed shutdown, reportedly being orchestrated by a coalition of customs licence agents and freight forwarding associations, as “counterproductive and not an option.”
Chief Ezisi clarified that the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 had repealed the nomenclature of licensed customs clearing agents, replacing it with “customs representatives.”
He noted that some groups agitating under the old nomenclature are not recognized under the current regulatory framework, which includes the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) Act 2007.
“Dialogue, communication, collaboration, and institutional engagement with relevant authorities remain the most effective tools for resolving grievances.”
“Disruptions at the ports will only damage Nigeria’s economic interests and undermine the credibility of the freight forwarding profession,” Ezisi stated.
He further urged the association’s Apapa chapter members to continue with their normal business activities, assuring them that the NAGAFF leadership is in close contact with the Comptroller General of Customs, who is also the Chairman of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), and is actively handling the reported grievances.
NAGAFF expressed confidence that the Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Maritime Police and the Commissioner of Police, Ports Command, will maintain peace and order at Apapa Port to safeguard legitimate business operations.
Reaffirming its dedication to professionalism and peace, NAGAFF called on all maritime practitioners to shun disruptions and support the drive toward reforms and innovations in Nigeria’s port system.