By Bon Peters, Port Harcourt, Rivers State
PORT HARCOURT/Nigeria: The Chairman and CEO of Nestelo Nigeria Limited, Chief Sir Ernest Elochukwu, who also serves as a Board of Trustees (BoT) member of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), was lauded on his birthday during a celebration organized by ANLCA members in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State.
In an exclusive interview with our correspondent at the event, Mr. Emenike Nwokeoji, the National President of ANLCA, emphasized the importance of celebrating life, especially in a time when uncertainties prevail and lives are lost daily. He urged ANLCA members to seize any opportunity to commemorate life’s milestones.
Expressing concern about Nigeria’s economy and the challenges faced by its citizens, Nwokeoji criticized the government for its perceived neglect of the masses. He stressed the need for unity within ANLCA, emphasizing that divisive actions and statements should be avoided to maintain the association’s cohesion.
Nwokeoji said, “Elections have come and gone, we thank God for everything. One person must win. Avoid any statement or release that will continue to divide us; we are one. Avoid any celebration that could be seen to ridicule any group; we are one.”
Further, he acknowledged Chief Ernest Elochukwu’s significant contributions to the Nigerian Freight Forwarding industry, including his mentorship of many individuals. He concluded with a prayer for Elochukwu’s continued good health and success, while also promising to be receptive to constructive advice to further elevate ANLCA.
In response, Chief Ernest Elochukwu expressed his gratitude to the event organizers and referred to the celebration as a pleasant surprise. He encouraged ANLCA’s Eastern Zone members to collaborate and work together to strengthen the association, emphasizing the importance of considering practical and viable solutions for progress.
Chief Ijere Ibiam Eleanya, the Chairman of the event’s organizing committee, shed light on the motivation behind honoring Chief Elochukwu. He praised Elochukwu’s outstanding achievements and dedication to the clearing and forwarding business, describing him as a peacemaker often misunderstood by others. Eleanya revealed that the decision to host the celebration was made spontaneously upon discovering Elochukwu’s birthday, highlighting his significance within the industry and the guidance he provides to ANLCA members.
Eleanya concluded by expressing the hope for more years of Elochukwu’s wisdom and guidance while emphasizing the need for unity within the new ANLCA Executive Committee.
