3 hours ago
25
By Steve Agbota
The Chief Executive Officer and Registrar of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), Kingsley Igwe, has acknowledged the persistent challenges affecting the collection of the Practitioners’ Operating Fee (POF) while assuring freight forwarders of ongoing reforms to streamline the process.
Speaking during a visit by the CRFFN leadership to the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) in Apapa, Lagos, Igwe admitted that inefficiencies, ranging from technical glitches and bureaucratic bottlenecks to a lack of structured data, have not only disrupted seamless transactions at the nation’s ports but also resulted in significant revenue losses. He reiterated CRFFN’s commitment to addressing these issues, ensuring a more efficient and transparent system for freight forwarders.
“As a matter of fact, in trying to solve the problem, we have lost huge revenue. Currently, we are facing network failures, platform unavailability, and cases of double or multiple debits without reversal,” Igwe stated.
He assured that CRFFN is actively working with the consultant responsible for POF collection to address these challenges.
Igwe also addressed the Declarant B payments, a mechanism designed to encourage compliance among freight forwarders. He noted that the absence of a comprehensive and accurate database has made it difficult to determine rightful beneficiaries.
He further outlined plans to professionalise the industry through licensing, training, regulatory compliance, and digital transformation—a move aimed at streamlining operations and improving efficiency.
Igwe criticized the lack of strict regulations, which has allowed unregulated agents into the industry, causing inefficiencies and revenue losses.
“Not everyone should be able to claim they are a freight forwarder without proper certification. This is why we need to streamline regulations and professionalize the practice,” he said.
To enhance industry knowledge and professionalism, Igwe said CRFFN plans to refine its training curriculum in consultation with local and international industry experts.
He added that with these measures, the freight forwarding community in Nigeria will benefit from increased professionalism, reduced regulatory bottlenecks, and improved access to training, fostering a more competitive and compliant industry aligned with global trade standards.
“Freight forwarders need to understand global trade conventions, customs regulations, and proper clearing procedures, rather than unrelated subjects like engineering or workshop practice,” he added.
While speaking during the engagement session, the National President of NAGAFF, Tochukwu Ezisi, called on CRFFN to provide a clear roadmap for resolving outstanding issues affecting practitioners, industry challenges, and the freight forwarding sector.
According to him, practitioners raised concerns over the Practitioners’ Operating Fee (POF), with many members yet to receive their payments.
He said there is a need for CRFFN to work closely with freight forwarders to address industry challenges.
Ezisi called for greater stakeholder engagement, capacity building, and training, adding that CRFFN must implement regular programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of freight forwarders.
He also advocated formal recognition of freight forwarders’ roles in the maritime sector, urging their inclusion in decision-making processes that impact the industry.
“These demands are not just for the benefit of NAGAFF members but for the overall growth and regulation of the freight forwarding sector in Nigeria,” he stated.
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