Invest in maritime sector, NAGAFF urges members

The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders has urged its members to ensure stronger accountability and deeper investment in the nation’s maritime sector.

The President of NAGAFF, Tochukwu Ezisi, stated this on Monday during the association’s National Executive Council meeting held in Apapa, Lagos.

The event was themed ‘A new chapter, a renewed commitment’.

Ezisi reflected on the association’s progress and resilience in navigating economic and regulatory challenges in the nation’s marine and blue economy sector.

He lauded the association’s achievements in advocacy, professional development, and engagement with government agencies.

Ezisi emphasised the urgent need to confront internal challenges that threaten future growth.

The NAGAFF President mentioned that the strength and sustainability of the association are intrinsically linked to the financial commitment and active participation of all its components.

“Evident lack of robust investment” from some chapter executives, apathy and disengagement could undermine national objectives and hinder service delivery to members and the business community,” he said.

A former president of the association who is also the Head of Research at Sea Empowerment and Research Centre, Dr Eugene Nweke, said the freight forwarding industry is undergoing significant changes, driven by technological advancements, shifts in global trade policies, and changing consumer behaviour.

Nweke noted that as the association embarks on a new chapter, “it’s essential to reposition for sustainable growth and success.”

He said while effective leadership and strategic planning are critical in navigating the evolving landscape of freight forwarding, the association must develop a clear vision and strategy to drive growth and success.

Nweke stated that to achieve sustainable growth and success, NAGAFF must strengthen its foundation by setting clear goals and objectives aligned with industry demands, “foster a culture of innovation and technology adoption and build strong relationships with industry stakeholders and government agencies.”

He said the association must develop resilience and risk management strategies and sustain ongoing investment in education and skill development for members, as well as navigate the evolving landscape of freight forwarding.

Nweke added that to stay competitive, NAGAFF must engage with industry stakeholders and foster partnerships, leverage trending ICT innovations and applications, provide ongoing professional development and training, and promote external exchange and expertise programmes.