Harboursandport.com: Lagos, Nigeria – August 20, 2025: The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, NAGAFF has distanced itself from a proposed shutdown of operations at Apapa Port, describing the move as counterproductive and misaligned with the principles of professional freight forwarding.
In a statement signed by its President, Tochukwu Ezisi, NAGAFF emphasized that neither the association nor its members are involved in the planned action, which is reportedly being organized by a coalition of Customs License Agents and freight forwarding groups.
Ezisi noted that the term “Licensed Customs Clearing Agents” has been repealed under the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and replaced with “Customs Representatives,” rendering some of the coalition’s participants unrecognized under current regulatory frameworks.
“As the umbrella body representing freight forwarders nationwide, NAGAFF remains committed to constructive engagement, lawful advocacy, and professional conduct,” Ezisi said.
In his words, “We view the proposed shutdown not only as an unproductive option but also as a threat to the progress we collectively seek in port industry reforms.”
The association urged stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and institutional engagement over disruptive actions, warning that any shutdown could harm Nigeria’s economic interests and undermine the credibility of the freight forwarding profession.
NAGAFF also advised its Apapa Chapter and members to continue their regular business activities, assuring them that the association is in direct communication with the Comptroller General of Customs—who also chairs the World Customs Organisation, WCO —regarding the grievances raised.
Ezisi expressed confidence that the Assistant Inspector General of Police (Maritime) and the Commissioner of Police (Ports) would maintain peace and order at Apapa Port, ensuring safe and uninterrupted operations for all legitimate business activities.
The statement comes amid growing tensions in the maritime sector, with some groups calling for withdrawal of services over unresolved issues linked to Customs operations.
NAGAFF’s position signals a clear preference for reform through collaboration rather than confrontation.
I know it's about the Bodogwu issues.
ReplyDeleteThe question is" how does the shutdown help the situation".
Would it boost the platform to become optimal in output automatically.
Believe me this CG means well.
The teething problems were envisaged and steps are afoot to ameliorate the pitfalls.
We should cast our minds back to the provisional release meant to cushion the down time in the early days of this same new platform; guess what; we abused it.
As I write, the CG is bending backwards to use the the back end facilities of Webb FONTAINE to help the Bodogwu.
And we all know it.
So what's the fuss about?
I stand with my revolutionary CG.
Bert Okeke is the Secretary of the Compliance Team of NAGAFF
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