Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, the President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has expressed his contentment regarding the revitalization of the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) Conference by Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
Speaking with journalists at the conclusion of the conference held in Lagos, Ezisi highlighted the significance of the discussions, interactions, and brainstorming sessions aimed at addressing bottlenecks in cargo clearance.
He indicated that the customs management’s commitment was evident, showcasing readiness to provide lasting solutions for 48-hour cargo clearance and seamless port operations.
Ezisi expressed satisfaction on behalf of freight forwarders and licensed customs brokers, emphasizing that the platform created by the service’s management garnered approval. He anticipates that 2024 will mark a year of effective problem-solving, leading to the realization of the 48-hour cargo clearance goal.
“For the first time in 13 years, I must say freight forwarders are happy because issues discussed today received instant feedback, and it’s not a matter of ‘we will get back to you,'” Ezisi remarked.
He commended the CGC for demonstrating seriousness in pursuing the three-point agenda and reactivating the CGC Conference after the extended hiatus. He also expressed the expectation for additional meetings and conferences to address other areas of concern in customs processes and procedures.
As one of the panelists at the conference, Ezisi affirmed that the strategies and formulas implemented by the Adewale Adeniyi-led customs management team make 48-hour clearance achievable. He predicted that by the end of 2024, the port community would witness the successful realization of these service milestones.
Ezisi disclosed that directives have been issued to all Deputy Comptrollers by the CGC to ensure compliance with alerts, a move seen as a significant achievement toward the 48-hour cargo clearance goal.
He assured continued support from NAGAFF’s management to aid the service in achieving the timely exit of cargoes from the ports, emphasizing the resolution of issues related to multiple alerts from headquarters that previously hindered the cargo release process.
