By Bon Peters
PORT HARCOURT/Nigeria: In a strategic move to enhance operational efficiency and foster a harmonious working relationship within the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), the National President, Mr. Emenike Nwokeoji, formally inaugurated the Eastern zonal presidential committee at the ANLCA Secretariat, Onne, Rivers State.
Addressing reporters on the sidelines of the event, Nwokeoji highlighted the imperative of replicating the successful inauguration of the Western zonal committee in Lagos. Cognizant of the prevailing economic challenges, he opted to decentralize the ceremony, sparing committee members the logistical hurdles of traveling to Lagos.
The National President underscored the committee’s pivotal role in liaising with the diverse government agencies and parastatals involved in freight forwarding and clearing, given the industry’s vast scope. Emphasizing the need for cooperation, he cautioned against unhealthy rivalries between the presidential committee and zonal or chapter executives.
“We decided to inaugurate this committee because the industry is too large, with many government agencies, shipping companies, and other stakeholders involved in our job,” Nwokeoji asserted, urging committee members not to view themselves as alternatives but as collaborators to existing executives.
The inauguration, according to Nwokeoji, will occur in phases, with future members joining in subsequent phases. He urged committee members to work collaboratively with chapter executives and clarified that they are not an investigative team but are meant to complement existing efforts.
Former ANLCA National President, Chief Ernest Elochukwu, stressed the association’s core purpose of safeguarding common interests. He advised committee members against adopting an air of superiority and urged them to consult with elected officers when necessary, promoting cooperation over competition.
The Eastern zonal Coordinator, Mr. Joshua Ahuama, applauded the National President for bringing the inauguration to the East, thereby relieving committee members of significant stress. Ahuama emphasized the importance of studying the association’s constitution to guide committee members in their responsibilities.
During the event, four committees were inaugurated, including Terminals, Customs CPA and FOU; PMTF, East; Shipping Company and Bonded Warehouse; and Government Agencies. The swearing-in of members, including the second Senior Special Assistant to the National President on special duties, Dr. Ifeanyi Asogwa, marked a crucial juncture in the proceedings.
Expressing gratitude, Dr. Asogwa pledged cooperation for the upliftment of the Association and called for unity among members. Committee member Rtn Chukwu Nnanna echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the president’s inclusive approach and advocating for constant interaction among executives and committee members for a harmonious working relationship.
