CRFFN lauds withdrawal of third party cargoes inspection

The Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria, (CRFFN), has lauded the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), for the withdrawal of some Customs taskforces and special teams recently deployed from Abuja, to inspect 3rd party cargo at the Western Ports, which led to delayed cargo clearance.

The Registrar of CRFFN, Samuel Nwakohu, said in a statement that the move has entrenched sanity in the seaports and guaranteed a friendly and healthy business environment.

Nwakohu also applauded the collaborative efforts of the Command and the Council, which he said led to the withdrawal, adding that this would enhance efficient service delivery in the ports, in line with the Presidential Order on the Ease of doing-Business.

Recall that a fortnight ago, aggrieved freight forwarders under the aegies of Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) and National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) had issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Federal Government to address the challenges hindering cargo clearance, else they will shut down the Western ports, which led to a meeting of the Council with the Group, urging them to stay action on their proposed strike with an assurance to address the challenges with the appropriate authorities within 14 working days.

The group had also decried the multiple Customs check-points by different formations in ports, leading to delays in cargo clearance and exorbitant payment of demurrage.

Nwakohu thereby commended the pragmatic leadership of the CRFFN Governing Council in resolving the issues, and expressed appreciation to the freight forwarders for their patience, while reaffirming the Council’s readiness in advancing their course, and urged them to make it their first point of call when issues arise.