The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has distanced itself from the planned shutdown of Lagos port operations, making it clear that its members will not participate in the action reportedly organised by a coalition of customs licensed agents and freight forwarding associations.
According to NAGAFF, the dispute centres on a proposed increase in licensing fees by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). However, the association stressed that it does not consider a strike the right approach to resolving such matters.
In a press statement, NAGAFF’s National President, Tochukwu Ezisi, clarified that the term “licensed customs agents” no longer applies under the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, where the designation has been replaced with “Customs representatives”.
He noted that some groups behind the proposed shutdown continue to operate under an outdated nomenclature, which is not recognised by the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) Act 2007 or the NCS Act 2023.
Ezisi reaffirmed that NAGAFF, as the umbrella body for freight forwarders nationwide, is committed to constructive engagement rather than confrontation.
“We view the proposed shutdown as counterproductive to the progress we all seek in port reforms and innovations. NAGAFF firmly believes that dialogue, communication, collaboration, and institutional engagement with relevant authorities remain the most effective tools for resolving grievances,” he stated.
The association emphasised that disrupting port operations would not only harm the national economy but also damage the credibility of the freight forwarding profession. Instead, NAGAFF said it is pursuing solutions through lawful advocacy and professional conduct, maintaining open lines of communication with the Comptroller General of Customs, who is also Chairman of the World Customs Organisation.
NAGAFF has therefore advised its members to continue their normal business activities and resist calls for strike action. The association also urged the police authorities responsible for maritime operations and port security to safeguard peace and order during this period.
Reiterating its commitment to peace, professionalism, and progress within the maritime industry, NAGAFF called on all genuine practitioners to embrace dialogue and responsible engagement rather than actions that risk destabilising the sector.
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