There are concerns over the Nigerian Ports Authority’s (NPA) mandatory port pass system, which is now required for business access to port facilities. Freight forwarders have opposed the initiative, arguing that the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) identity card certifying industry practitioners should be sufficient for entry.
The NPA recently issued a final reminder to all freight forwarders and stakeholders at the Tin Can Island Port Complex, urging them to obtain the Port Pass before the April 30, 2025 deadline.
In an official letter addressed to the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), the NPA reiterated that the Port Pass remains the only legitimate permit for port access.
The notice, signed by the Port Manager of Tin Can Island Port Complex, Abubakar Sani Isa, emphasised the security implications of the requirement, citing the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code Level 1 enforcement.
The NPA warned that failure to acquire the pass before the deadline would result in access restrictions, preventing non-compliant individuals from entering the facility.
Speaking on the issue, the Deputy National President of the NAGAFF Seaport Chapter, Afam Chukwuma, criticised the government’s failure to regulate access to port operations properly.
He noted that freight forwarders are recognised as key industry professionals contributing to policy development in other countries, whereas, in Nigeria, the sector remains poorly managed.
Chukwuma highlighted the absence of proper certification and streamlined regulations, arguing that many individuals enter the freight forwarding business without the necessary experience or accountability.
“The current regulatory framework does not adequately distinguish between legitimate freight forwarders and unqualified individuals,” he said. He urged the NPA and relevant authorities to review the system to ensure only certified professionals are granted access while addressing broader concerns about industry regulation and welfare.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of NAGAFF’s Apapa Chapter, Eze Uchendu, challenged the NPA’s decision, questioning why the CRFFN ID card, a professional certification, is not recognised for port access.
“We begin to wonder if the NPA is not part of the agencies being regulated. Is the Port Pass now superior to the ICA (Identification Card Authority)?” Uchendu asked. Uchendu expressed frustration over the poor welfare of freight forwarders, despite their contributions to government revenue.
“We generate revenue for the government, but we receive nothing in return. How does the government intend to tackle the challenges facing freight forwarders? You cannot regulate a hungry man or a worker deprived of his benefits,” he added.
The freight forwarders called for urgent policy reforms and greater transparency from the NPA to address their grievances before the Port Pass deadline takes effect.
