Story by Dili Utomi.
The eradication of the scourge of corruption, tackling issues such as illicit taxation, extortion by officials, and the lack of transparent processes that undermine the efficiency of goods transportation from ports and borders to their final destinations. These and more are listed as the reasons why a new body, the National Compliance Joint Task Force of Licensed Clearing Agents (NCJTFLCA) was initiated.
The main hall of the Rockview Hotel, FESTAC town, Lagos was the venue of the launch of the Joint Task Force on Friday, the 28th of March. The event was chaired by Chief Eric llechukwu, President General, Association of Progressive Traders (APT), Lagos International Trade Fair Complex and Chairman, Stakeholders Association of Trade Fair International Market. Brigadier General Muyiwa Okunowo (Rtd.) was the Guest of Honour while Dr. Ben Oramalugo, the Customs Area Controller, Seme Border Command and Prince Africanus N. Ogudoro were Special Guests of Honour. HRM. Oba Sejiro James, the Aholu of Kweme Kingdom, HRH, Eze Steve S.Etolue (KSM), Eze Igbo of Badagry, and two other traditional rulers were Royal Fathers of the Day. The Founder of NAGAFF, Chief Dr. Boniface Aniebonam and the Pioneer President of Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria (ARFFN), Dr. Frank Ukor and other Dignitaries graced the event.
High Chief Dr. Basil Chudi Nwolisa is the National President of NCJTFLCA, in his opening speech, he noted that “As we gather here today, I want to remind you that our organisation is not a political movement nor is it an institution of aggression. Rather, we are a registered advocacy group and pressure group committed to promoting
transparency, accountability and compliance in the clearing and forwarding industry in Nigeria”.
“Our main objective is to address the endemic corruption that has plagued our nation, particularly in the clearing and forwarding industry. We want to ensure that the rules and regulations governing our industry are adhered to, and that the rights of importers and exporters are protected”.
His words “We are committed to tackling the issue of double taxation by shipping companies and terminal operators, who charge both demurrage and rent on the same container. We will also be asking questions about why the Federal Operation Unit of the Nigerian Customs Service is still operating near tne ports, despite the laws that established it stating that they should be at least 40 kilometers away from the border post”.
“We call on the Nigeria Police Force, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), the Nigeria Customs Service, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and other relevant agencies to partner with us in promoting transparency, accountability, and compliance in our industry”. He added.
In his speech, the chairman of the ocassion said “This milestone represents a significant step forward in our collective pursuit of excellence, transparency, and accountability within the industry”.
“As licensed clearing agents, we recognise the vital role you play in facilitating international trade and commerce. We also acknowledge the importance of adhering to the highest standards of compliance, ethics and professionalism”.
He added “I know that one of your aim is to promote a culture of voluntary compliance, share best practices and collaborate with regulatory agencies to address emerging challenges and opportunities”.
“Let us work together to uphold the integrity of this profession, support the growth of our economy and foster a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect. Thank you.” He concluded.
Dr. Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam in his contribution noted that “The policy today is that of destination inspection which calls on you to do honest declarations for the right valuation and payment to be done.
On the matter of the NCJTFLCA, one needs knowledge in other to properly operate, so go to the importers and educate them to be compliant in their businesses” he concluded.
Dr. Frank Ukor also chided the members of the National Compliance Joint Task Force of Licensed Clearing Agents (NCJTFLCA) to make sure that they liaise with all registered freight forwarding associations in order to gain better traction and make the desired positive impact in the industry.
The executive committee members of the association were sworn in, Chief Basil Nwolisa as president, Lawal Adaba a Vice President, Ezekiel Onuoha as General secretary, Douglas Ikenna as financial secretary, Emeka Onyejeagbu as treasurer, Barnabas Okoro as legal adviser, Alex Nwokedi as public relations officer, Dr. Emma Opara as board of trustees member, Annabel Njoku as member of BoT, Onuoha Uzor as member BoT, Chief Simeon Ezeji as member of BoT and Sunday Chigozie as member of BoT.
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