A group of nine candidates vying for membership of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) has unveiled a comprehensive six-point agenda they intend to pursue if elected.
This group, comprising Alhaji Taiwo Mustapha, Kingsley Offor, Alhaji Mohammed Sani Utai, Chief Ernest Elochukwu, Adeola Mummuney, Chief Sunday Momoh, Tunde Awonuga, and Chief Dennis Okafor, announced their campaign plans in Lagos, aimed at radically transforming the professional image of the association.
Represented by Alhaji Taiwo Mustapha and Chief Dayo Azeez, the group explained that the group is united by a common goal which is to serve ANLCA with dedication and resources, giving back to a profession that has significantly benefited them.
They stressed the need to review several professional issues to elevate Customs brokerage to international standards.
The group said its top priority is the chartering of customs brokerage practice, along with a review of the Council of Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) and a demand for a one percent commission on the total revenue collected by clearing agents on behalf of the Nigeria Customs Service.
They added that they also plan to promote a bill in the National Assembly for the lawful indigenization of customs brokerage jobs and clearing licenses, drawing inspiration from similar policies in Ghana, Benin Republic, and Ivory Coast.
The group explained that the lack of such a policy has caused unease among local practitioners. The group assured that achieving charter status would eliminate fears of foreign dominance in the industry, ensuring all brokers benefit from available opportunities.
The representatives questioned the efforts of local practitioners, emphasizing that success depends on specialization and proper execution of duties.
They highlighted the importance of pursuing the indigenization policy to ensure that all ANLCA members and the customs brokerage community can achieve a greater sense of fulfillment. They stressed that the group’s agenda is vital and will be actively pursued.
The group underscored the need for peace, harmony, unity, and stability between the board and the national executive to ensure ANLCA’s progress and impact. They stressed the importance of having like-minded individuals working together to protect and secure the association’s future for the younger generation.
Addressing the issue of securing a percentage commission on the total revenue collected by customs brokers, the group acknowledged the challenges but remained committed to initiating the struggle and laying a solid foundation for future success. They highlighted the necessity of pushing through the National Assembly to make this commission part of the law, citing past successes in similar endeavors.
Reflecting on the achievements of former Customs CG Hameed Ali, the group noted that perseverance and collaboration with current CG Wale Adeniyi could yield similar results for ANLCA. They stressed that the group’s request for a one percent commission is reasonable and would ultimately benefit both individuals and the association.
