The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) is set to mark its 25th anniversary with a grand Silver Jubilee celebration, while launching an ambitious N500 million project to acquire a permanent secretariat.
The milestone event, scheduled for November 16, 2024, in Lagos, aims to commemorate NAGAFF’s contributions to the freight forwarding industry and secure its future with a state-of-the-art operational hub.
In a keynote address, the National President of NAGAFF, Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, expressed his deep pride in the achievements of the association since its founding by Dr. Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam.
The President highlighted two key goals that lie at the heart of the current phase in NAGAFF’s journey. The first is the planning of the association’s Silver Jubilee celebration, which will honor 25 years of service and dedication to the freight forwarding industry. The second goal is the acquisition of a new Secretariat, an investment of N500 million that will provide NAGAFF with a permanent headquarters to facilitate its operations and growth.
The President emphasized the importance of this new Secretariat, describing it as a “pivotal investment” that will shape the future of NAGAFF by providing a permanent home for its activities. The responsibilities of the Secretariat Acquisition Committee include selecting a suitable location, negotiating favorable terms, and ensuring the new building meets the highest standards of functionality and modernity.
Chief Ezisi also acknowledged the challenging economic environment in Nigeria but expressed confidence that the necessary funds for the Secretariat would be raised.
The Silver Jubilee celebration, which will take place later this year, is expected to be a grand event that will showcase NAGAFF’s achievements over the past 25 years. It will also serve as a platform for fundraising to secure the N500 million required for the new Secretariat.
Chief Ezisi however concluded his speech by expressing gratitude to the members of the committees and to all those who have contributed to NAGAFF’s success.
“This remarkable milestone is a testament to our collective vision, dedication, and perseverance. When NAGAFF was established 25 years ago, it began as a bold initiative to revolutionize the freight forwarding industry in Nigeria. Today, we see not just an organization, but a thriving community committed to the values of integrity, professionalism, and excellence.
“The Silver Jubilee Planning Committee is not just tasked with organizing a commemorative event but with creating an experience that reflects the values and aspirations of NAGAFF. Simultaneously, the Secretariat Acquisition Committee is charged with overseeing the procurement of a new Secretariat—a hub that will symbolize our progress and enable us to continue our legacy of excellence.
“We understand that the economic climate is tough, but we are tougher. NAGAFF has built strong relationships with key players in the maritime sector, and we are confident that they will come forward to support us during this critical time. The journey may not be easy, but with determination and unity, we will succeed.”Chief Ezisi explained.
On his part, the Chairman of the Jubilee Planning Committee, Mr. Afam Chukwuma, outlined the dual responsibilities of the newly-formed committee. According to him, the anniversary event, scheduled for Saturday, November 16, 2024, will be held at a venue in Lagos.
Speaking on the acquisition of a permanent secretariat, Mr. Afam emphasized the importance of securing a dedicated space for NAGAFF’s operations.
Despite acknowledging the challenging economic environment in Nigeria, Afam expressed confidence that the required funds would be raised. He however encouraged all members and stakeholders to support the efforts of the committee.
“We have already secured a venue for this event, and we will soon announce the full details. This secretariat will serve as the hub for all NAGAFF activities. It is our priority to find a location that reflects the stature and growth of our organization over the past 25 years. We have already identified a few promising sites and made commitments.
“Yes, the economy is tough, but NAGAFF is tougher. We have built strong relationships with key players in the maritime sector, and we believe that many of them will support us during this critical time. Our long-standing history, our relationships, and, most importantly, the grace of God, will help us achieve this goal.
“We are confident that we will raise the funds, but even if we don’t raise the full amount right away, we will begin the process. Just as a child first crawls before walking, we will start the journey and build the secretariat step by step ” Afam noted.
