The President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) Mr Emenike Nwokeoji has shed light on the delay in holding elections for chapter executives, about five months after the National Executive Committee Members (NECOM) election was held.
Addressing concerns regarding the delay in conducting chapter executives’ elections, the ANLCA President elucidated on the association’s approach towards organizational unity and procedural integrity.
He explained that ANLCA’s foremost priority lies in ensuring a transparent and inclusive electoral process that reflects the collective will of its members across chapters, nationwide. The President underscored the significance of fostering unity and cohesion within the association, stressing that the delay in conducting the elections is not indicative of negligence, but rather a strategic endeavor to uphold democratic principles and organizational harmony.
Furthermore, Nwokeoji highlighted ongoing internal consultations and preparatory measures aimed at facilitating smooth and fair elections at both chapter and Board of Trustees (BOT) levels.
He said: “Yes. We are working on an election. Not just the chapters, but including the BOT. We have a whole lot of elections pending. Very soon the calendar will be rolled out and you people will be aware of it”.
Responding to questions regarding ANLCA’s response to fluctuations in customs duty rates, the President clarified that the association had been actively engaged in addressing the issue internally before making public statements. Stressing the importance of exhausting internal mechanisms before going public, he highlighted ANLCA’s previous efforts in liaising with relevant authorities and agencies. He explained that ANLCA’s actions were not belated but rather part of a strategic approach to garnering public awareness and support.
On the prospect of continued fluctuations in duty rates, the President reiterated ANLCA’s commitment to collective action, guided by decisions reached by the National Executive Committee (NECOM) of the association. He outlined proposed solutions, including advocating for stable exchange rates used in duty computations to facilitate trade predictability and mitigate financial uncertainties for importers.
Speaking also on the issue of terminal charges, the President acknowledged ANLCA’s intervention following the increase in charges by terminal operators. He explained ongoing negotiations aimed at revising the approved rates granted by the Shippers’ Council, emphasizing collaborative efforts to protect the interests of members.
Commenting on ANLCA’s engagement with government agencies, particularly the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Ministry of Finance, regarding exchange rate fluctuations, the President emphasized the association’s proactive stance in seeking collaboration with other stakeholders. He stressed the importance of collective action involving various sectors to influence government policies and decision-making processes effectively.
