By Tunde Ojudun
The Executive Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Apapa chapter, Chief Emeka Chukwumalu, has adopted a policy of constructive engagement with port agencies to ensure seamless cargo delivery at the Lagos Port Complex, Apapa.
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the chapter’s executive with members on Thursday, held at the Bashir Adewale Adeniyi Conference Room, of the newly acquired secretariat, Chukwumalu emphasized the importance of meaningful dialogue with agencies operating in the port. He noted that constructive engagement fosters mutual respect, quick dispute resolution, and industrial peace.
Chukwumalu revealed ongoing discussions with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to address issues affecting Customs brokers and streamline clearance processes. He noted that NCS supported the chapter in setting up its new secretariat and pledged continued synergy for resolving clearance challenges.
He highlighted a recent engagement with APM Terminals over extra debit notes, which was amicably resolved with assurances that such notes would no longer be issued.
He said that plans are underway to train members on integrating the ETO Call-Up system with Terminal Delivery Orders (TDO) to improve cargo delivery and ease traffic. Monthly meetings will also be held to gather feedback and address emerging issues.
The chairman commended past leaders, including Chief John Oforbike, former Western Zone Coordinator, and other senior members such as Otunba Babatunde Mukaila, Elder Chinedu Ngwuibe, and Pius Ejibunu, for their continued support. He called for collective cooperation to move the chapter forward.
Oforbike lauded the chairman for the good work he is doing and enjoined him to keep it up. He urged members to be versed in the job they are doing and report any challenge they face in the course of doing their job to the executive.
Mukaila, in his remarks, stressed the need for agents to be well-trained to challenge irregular practices, pledging to donate a complete tariff book. He also praised the strategic location of the new secretariat for its accessibility.
Taskforce Coordinator, Mr. Emeka Charles Ikechukwu, expressed concerns about frustrations faced by his team from Customs officers and terminal operators, citing lack of formal introduction and alleged extortion within the port.
Chukwumalu assured members that the chapter’s cordial relationship with Customs will be strengthened, with training programs planned to align agents with officers. He reiterated that constructive engagement remains the pathway to smoother operations and greater efficiency at Apapa Port.