NCJTFLCA Will Engage Stakeholders To Sanitise Maritime Industry With Advocacy – Nwolisa, Nat”l President

NCJTFLCA Will Engage Stakeholders To Sanitise Maritime Industry With Advocacy – Nwolisa, Nat”l President

THECONSCIENCE NG reports that the National President of the National Compliance Joint Task Force of Licensed Clearing Agents (NCJTFLCA), High Chief Basil Nwolisa, has announced that the new group is ready to engage stakeholders in a concerted effort to sanitize the maritime industry through informed and peaceful advocacy.

He made the statement during the inauguration ceremony of the group in Lagos on Friday.

High Chief Nwolisa assured Nigerians of improved processes in maritime business with the establishment of the group. He stated: “Our projection is that in the next six months, we will be able to ask pertinent questions about the operations of the maritime industry and sector, especially concerning importers, shippers, agents, shipping companies, terminal operators, customs, and other government agencies.

“Sanity must return. We assure you that you will see activities, changes, and improvements in the operational standards of terminal operators, shipping companies, and other groups in maritime. If they refuse, we will take appropriate actions.”

He highlighted that the group aims to encourage compliance and create an enabling environment for members of the National Compliance Joint Task Force, as well as licensed clearing agents and importers.

He reassured attendees that the group is law-abiding and believes in the judicial process, aiming to push for changes that will benefit all stakeholders.

“We are law-abiding and driven. Our members value quality over quantity. We don’t admit just anyone; we admit knowledgeable individuals who understand their rights and ask questions. We remain hopeful that things will improve in Nigeria. We believe our impact as a pressure and advocacy group will help facilitate the necessary changes in the maritime industry.

“Where there are flaws, we will ask questions, and answers must be provided. Where there are no answers, we will agitate further. And if agitation doesn’t work, we will seek legal redress.”

Discussing the group’s operations, he explained that it will focus on awareness, inquiry, and robust advocacy. He stated: “Our modus operandi is simple. We are not here to fight, quarrel, or cause strikes. We will ask questions, and if we are unsatisfied or not provided with solutions, we will go to court to seek interpretations regarding the operations of these agencies.”

He provided examples of how internal issues within government agencies and organisations like NAFDAC, Customs, and shipping companies adversely affect agents and others. He said: “Imagine NAFDAC impounding a container that was duly imported, then taking it to London for examination due to lack of equipment. By the time NAFDAC is done, the goods are close to their expiration date. Who is to blame?”

“We want to resolve issues such as shipping companies and terminal operators collecting demurrage on the same container. Is that not an aberration? Where’s the container? In the terminal. Only the terminal operators have the right to collect.”

“Another example involves a senior customs officer, either a deputy or assistant comptroller-general, releasing a container at the port, only for an inspector to stop the same container at Mile Two or atop Apapa Bridge for enforcement, subjecting it to another inspection. It’s an aberration. If Customs has internal operational or trust issues, they should resolve them internally without causing hardship for others and putting us in a difficult position.”

The National Vice President, Lawal Adaba, also spoke, noting that there has been significant fear among clearing agents and forwarders, who have suffered in silence for too long, hence the formation of this advocacy group. The veteran emphasised that the time has come to create a smooth and problem-free trading atmosphere.

Additionally, Chief Eric Ilechukwu (Akunwafo), President General of the Association of Progressive Traders (APT), Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, who chaired the inauguration, remarked that the event signifies a significant step forward in the collective pursuit of excellence, transparency, and accountability within the maritime industry. Represented by Stanley Chidom, he acknowledged the vital role licensed clearing agents play in facilitating international trade and commerce, stressing the importance of adhering to the highest standards of compliance, ethics, and professionalism.

“I know that one of your aims is to promote a culture of voluntary compliance, share best practices, and collaborate with regulatory agencies to address emerging challenges and opportunities.”

A royal father present at the event, Eze Sunday Ojukwu of Amuwo Odofin community, expressed confidence that the group’s efforts would benefit many Nigerians and stakeholders in various ways. He added that the membership comprises highly experienced individuals, ensuring that the work will be done collectively.

Another royal father, Eze Onuoha C. Sylvanus of the Igbo Igboelerin community, said the group is expected to adhere to its aims and objectives, which will help curb extortion and corruption at the port.

The ceremony was attended by numerous dignitaries, veterans, and respected stakeholders from the maritime industry. Some notable attendees included Dr. Boniface Aniebonam; Major General Muyiwa Okunowo (retired); His Royal Majesty, Oba Sejiro James, the Aholu of Kweme Kingdom; and Eze Steve Sunday Etoluue, the Eze Igbo of Badagry.

The newly established advocacy group plans to collaborate with other stakeholders to sanitize the maritime industry through awareness creation and resolution of challenges faced by various players, including freight forwarders, licensed clearing agents, and importers.