Former NAGAFF President Advocates For ICTN Implementation In Nigeria

Former NAGAFF President Advocates For ICTN Implementation In Nigeria

Fwdr.Dr.Eugne Nweke,Head ,Sea Empowerment Research Center

By Frank Odinukaeze

At a recent Maritime Reporters’ Roundtable Discussion, Forwarder Eugene Nweke, former President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), shared his insights on the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) and its potential benefits for Nigeria’s maritime industry.

During his presentation, Nweke outlined the history and evolution of cargo tracking in the West and Central Africa subregion, emphasizing the importance of ICTN as a digital tool for enhancing transparency, security, and efficiency in logistics. He noted that Gabon was the first country in the region to implement a cargo tracking note system in 1999, and since then, over 24 countries have adopted the more advanced ICTN system.

“ICTN is not just a tracking tool; it is a trade enabler that has been validated by the World Trade Organization (WTO) as a facilitation measure for African countries,” Nweke stated. He highlighted the differences between the traditional Cargo Tracking Note (CTN) and the ICTN, underscoring the latter’s advantages in automation, real-time visibility, enhanced security, and regulatory compliance.

Nweke addressed concerns raised by some stakeholders regarding the cost implications of ICTN implementation, reassuring them that the responsibility lies primarily with shipping lines and agents, not with importers or exporters. He also emphasized the importance of establishing a robust regulatory framework and engaging stakeholders through consultations, workshops, and training sessions to ensure a seamless transition.

The former NAGAFF president proposed a detailed implementation roadmap for ICTN in Nigeria, including milestones, timelines, and resource allocation, to minimize disruptions to existing operations. He appealed to stakeholders to support the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) in its efforts to implement ICTN, which he believes will boost trade volumes, reduce costs, and enhance the competitiveness of Nigerian ports.

Concluding his remarks, Nweke reiterated the NSC’s commitment to transparency and integrity, urging all parties to give the council the opportunity to improve the nation’s port system. “Let’s give peace a chance and allow the NSC to add value to our port system,” he said.

The implementation of ICTN is expected to address Nigeria’s low logistics performance index and enhance the country’s capacity to trace, track, and monitor cargo movement effectively. Maritime journalists and stakeholders alike are urged to lend their support to this transformative initiative.