Stakeholders in the maritime and logistics industry have called on the leadership of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) to adopt a comprehensive and practical approach to equipping freight forwarders with modern skills to remain competitive on a global scale.
The training, they noted, is also essential for ensuring effective regulation, industry growth and improved operational efficiency for trade.The Executive Director of Synergy Index Limited, Pius Ujubuonu, stressed the importance of developing modern and impactful curricula tailored to empower freight forwarders with cutting-edge tools, particularly in information and communication technology (ICT) and networking.
He underscored the need for the CRFFN to prioritise three core principles in its training strategy, namely, nearness, affordability and usefulness.
Speaking on the training programmes, Ujubuonu noted that the comfort of the training environment is less relevant if the curriculum does not equip participants with essential, contemporary skills.
“It is imperative that the CRFFN digs deep and creates proper, contemporary and modern curricula that positively impact freight forwarders. This should include equipping them with ICT tools and networking skills crucial for the trade,” Ujubuonu said.
He further recommended that the CRFFN broaden its regulatory scope by engaging various service providers within the freight forwarding chain. He suggested incorporating consolidators, warehouse agents, international freight agents, chandlers and stevedores into the framework to foster a more inclusive and cohesive industry.
Ujubuonu also criticised the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) for its overbearing role in port operations, which he claimed often overlaps with the responsibilities of the CRFFN. He urged the CRFFN to assert its authority and streamline roles to enhance efficiency in freight administration and logistics.
“The NPA’s overbearing influence on transportation and other critical aspects undermines the CRFFN’s role,” Ujubuonu remarked. Meanwhile, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Mickey Excellency Nigeria Limited, Abdulazeez Mukaila, called on the CRFFN leadership to clearly outline its blueprint and take immediate steps to address the pressing challenges faced by freight forwarders.
Mukaila expressed disappointment that despite paying mandatory fees for carrying containers to the CRFFN, freight forwarders have not experienced significant benefits, reforms or impactful initiatives three months into the new administration. He emphasised the need to learn from past mistakes and prioritise meaningful engagement with industry stakeholders.
Mukaila also advocated for interventions in cargo processes and robust training programmes to be placed at the top of CRFFN’s agenda.
“The world is changing, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is taking over, and tools like ChatGPT are emerging. The Registrar must rise above the current level and offer classical, globally competitive training,” Mukaila said.
He suggested adopting a “train-the-trainers” model if funds are limited, ensuring that freight forwarders receive adequate training to remain competitive on a global scale.
Mukaila also emphasised the importance of a bottom-up approach to training, advocating for accessibility and relevance. He urged the CRFFN to bring training closer to practitioners rather than hosting it in high-end venues that may discourage participation. Mukaila advised that the training should align with the environment and the terms and conditions of service requirements.
