NAGAFF Issues Ultimatum to APMT Over Auctioned Containers

NAGAFF Issues Ultimatum to APMT Over Auctioned Containers

BY Frank Odinukaeze

The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has issued a stern ultimatum to APMT Terminal, Apapa, demanding the release of auctioned containers to their lawful allottees.
In a letter dated December 4, 2024, Hon. Ibrahim Tanko, the National Coordinator of NAGAFF’s 100% Compliance Team, addressed the Managing Director of APMT Terminal, highlighting the terminal’s alleged refusal to deliver the containers.

Hon. Tanko emphasized that if the containers are not delivered by December 9, 2024, the freight forwarding community would resort to protests and potentially shut down operations at the terminal. He cited sections of the Customs Act and the Procurement Act, which outline the responsibilities of terminal operators and shipping lines in the auction process.

Tanko expressed surprise at APMT’s alleged non-compliance, stating that the allottees had fulfilled all necessary procedures to take delivery of the containers. He urged APMT to act promptly to avoid further escalation and ensure adherence to national laws governing auctioned containers.

The letter concluded with a call for immediate action to release the containers to their rightful owners, reinforcing NAGAFF’s commitment to upholding lawful and fair practices in the maritime industry.
“We implore you to kindly ensure that the auctioned containers are released to the lawful allottees without any further delay at least before the date stated above” the statement added.