The acting National President of Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) and a presidential candidate in the coming National Executive Committee (NECOM) election has promised to transform the association into a respected and empowered profession, if elected as president.
Farinto, while addressing members of the association at the Tincan Island Port in Lagos on Tuesday during his campaign promised to bring about a positive transformation that would earn the profession the respect it deserves.
In his speech, Farinto acknowledged that licensed customs agents play a crucial role as trade facilitators and revenue generators for the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). He expressed his regret that society often held an erroneous impression of their profession, leading to lack of respect. He assured members who were at the rally that under his leadership, the perception would change for the better.
He said “it is time for us to take control of our destiny. If we let this opportunity slip away, it may take another five years to regain it. We are a profession that deserves recognition and inclusion in policy formulation by the federal government. The World Customs Organization’s 2013 Year Book explicitly states that Customs administrations must involve customs brokers as critical stakeholders. How many times have you been invited to Abuja, for God’s sake?” Farinto questioned.
Furthermore, he emphasized his commitment to promoting gender equality and youth empowerment within the association. He pledged to ensure that women would not be confined to the kitchen alone, but would also have access to licenses and participate in the National Executive Committee. He recognized the meticulousness of women in the profession and believed their involvement would enhance its overall effectiveness. To empower the youth, he proposed the creation of two dedicated offices and the allocation of a minimum of 10 licenses per year to deserving young individuals.
He urged the members to vote wisely, emphasizing the importance of selecting credible candidates who would bring about positive change rather than those who only excelled in delivering vote of thanks at events.
Dr. Farinto stressed his track record of hard work and commitment as the acting President and Vice President of ANLCA. He shared his vision of establishing the Institute of Customs Brokers, a project that required substantial funding. Thus, he urged the association to focus on revenue generation to support the development of the institute and improve the overall functioning of ANLCA.
“In casting your vote, I implore you to be discerning. Let us not regress, but instead rectify the past mistakes. We have the opportunity to set things right now. If you vote for our team, ANLCA will flourish,” he assured the members”.
He pointed out that his own tenure as acting President and Vice President of ANLCA was characterized by tireless efforts and unwavering dedication to the association’s goals. Additionally, he shared his vision of establishing an Institute of Customs Brokers, an ambitious project that necessitated substantial financial resources. He appealed to the association to prioritize revenue generation, which would enable ANLCA to consistently support and enhance its operations.
