Minister Advocates Quarterly Collaboration for Freight Forwarders

Minister Advocates Quarterly Collaboration for Freight Forwarders
…. NAGAFF calls for strengthening of CRFFN, Enforcement of Cabotage Act

L-R Mr Solomon Zarks, representing the Hon.Minister of Marine and Blue economy,a d Founder NAGAFF,Dr Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam,during a meeting at the NAGAFF Headquarters in Apapa,on Thursday

BY Frank Odinukaeze

In a significant move to enhance port operations, the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Oyetola Adgebola, represented by Solomon Zarks, Director of Training in the ministry, emphasized the indispensable role of freight forwarders during an interactive session held at the NAGAFF headquarters on March 6, 2025.
Meanwhile the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders NAGAFF,has advocated for the revamping of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria, CRFFN,and the enforcement of the Cabotage Act.,as foreigners now dominate port operations.

Acknowledging the critical contributions of freight forwarders to port efficiency, the Minister announced the approval of quarterly joint exercises aimed at fostering collaboration and addressing challenges. “Freight forwarding is an important aspect in port operations. There is no way you can succeed in port operations without freight forwarders,” Zarks stated.

Florence Egbuna, from Education and  Training ,CRFFN

The session underscored the importance of open dialogue, with Zarks likening the relationship between stakeholders to a family dynamic. “Since you are important operators in the port, we need to have this kind of gathering quarterly,” he remarked, highlighting the need for mutual understanding and shared goals.

Key issues discussed included regulatory challenges and the necessity of capacity building to keep pace with global trade dynamics. Zarks stressed, “If you are not conscious enough, you may lose out in the system. Capacity building is a key, which should be considered and ensured is effective.”

The interactive session concluded with a commitment to finding actionable solutions, with unresolved matters to be escalated to the Minister for further deliberation. Zarks expressed gratitude to the participants, stating, “We are all proud of you because all of you are professionals.”

This initiative marks a step forward in promoting trade efficiency and ensuring Nigeria remains competitive in the international trade arena.

NAGAFF founder, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam,who expressed disappointment over the slow pace of progress at CRFFN, called on the Minister to take decisive action in addressing the challenges facing the freight forwarding sector, particularly the underperformance of the CRFFN.

While urging the Minister to directly engage with freight forwarders to resolve key industry concerns, Aniebonam expressed disappointment over the CRFFN’s failure to fully implement its statutory roles, arguing that freight forwarding is distinct from customs brokerage. He also disclosed that NAGAFF is currently in an appeal court case against CRFFN over regulatory functions, highlighting the need for government intervention to ensure proper oversight.

The NAGAFF founder who expressed grave concerns over issues bothering on the infectiveness of the CRFFN ,as a regulator of freight Forwardimg in Nigeria , including the non recognition of the Identity Cards issued to freight forwarders by CRFFN ,are being turned down at the ports.

He took a swipe on blackmailers and those dishing out misinformation within the sector and advised them to desist forthwith, and equally called on the ministry to support CRFFN’s leadership in addressing industry challenges
Earlier in his address, read by Deputy President Headquarters Mr Simeon Nwaonu,High Chief Ezisi emphasized the importance of nurturing talent within the industry, noting that Mr. Kingsley Igwe, the Registrar of CRFFN, is a proud product of NAGAFF. This connection, he stated, symbolizes the association’s efforts to contribute positively to leadership and regulatory excellence.

The President outlined key areas of focus for the gathering, including enhancing port efficiency, improving regulatory frameworks, promoting professional development, and encouraging greater participation of Indigenous freight forwarders in the blue economy. He expressed optimism that collaborative efforts would transform Nigeria’s maritime sector into a global hub of excellence.

The event served as a platform for constructive dialogue and meaningful collaboration, with stakeholders expressing their commitment to addressing infrastructural and regulatory challenges. High Chief Ezisi concluded by expressing gratitude for the presence and dedication of all attendees, emphasizing the shared goal of a prosperous and efficient maritime industry.

According to the NAGAFF president, the gathering marked a pivotal moment in NAGAFF’s mission to advance the growth of Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy, setting the stage for continued progress and innovation in the sector.
Also in her response,Florence Egbuna,from Education and Training at CRFFN, reassured NAGAFF members of the council’s commitment to professional development.
Egbuna revealed that CRFFN would collaborate with agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian Ports Authority to enhance training programmes.
Comrade Nwankwo Okechukwu, enforcement coordinator , CRFFN,along with his team, represented the Registrar/ Chief Executive Officer,Mr Kingsley Igwe.