The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has dissociated itself and its members from the planned shutdown of operations at the Apapa Port reportedly being organized by a coalition of customs licensed agents and freight forwarding associations.
In a statement issued in Lagos on Wednesday, the association’s National President, Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, stressed that NAGAFF would not support any action capable of disrupting port activities or undermining Nigeria’s economic interests.
Ezisi clarified that under the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, the nomenclature of licensed customs clearing agents had been repealed and replaced with “customs representatives.” He noted that some members of the coalition pushing for the shutdown still operate under the old terminology, which is no longer recognized under the extant laws, including the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) Act 2007.
“As the umbrella body representing the interests of freight forwarders across Nigeria, NAGAFF remains committed to constructive engagement, lawful advocacy, and professional conduct in addressing industry concerns. The proposed shutdown is not an option but counterproductive to the reforms and innovations we seek in the port sector,” Ezisi stated.
The association emphasized that dialogue, communication, collaboration, and institutional engagement with relevant authorities remain the best approaches to resolving grievances in customs ports and border stations. It also urged freight forwarders to continue their businesses peacefully, assuring them that the association’s leadership is already engaging with the Comptroller-General of Customs on the issues raised.
Ezisi added that the Comptroller-General, who also chairs the World Customs Organisation (WCO), is fully aware of the grievances and is working towards a resolution. He further expressed confidence in the ability of the Assistant Inspector General of Police (Maritime) and the Commissioner of Police, Ports Command, to maintain peace and order at the Apapa Port.
“We reaffirm our dedication to promoting peace, professionalism, and progress in the maritime industry, and we call on all well-meaning practitioners to join us in upholding these values,” the statement concluded.
