By Bon Peters
ONNE/Nigeria: Plans to establish a permanent secretariat for the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Onne Seaport Chapter, have gained momentum following the acquisition of land for the proposed project in Onne, Rivers State.
The Chapter Chairman, Dr. Anselem Ike Okechukwu, announced the development while presenting his one-year stewardship report to members and stakeholders, describing the land acquisition as a major milestone in the association’s efforts to strengthen its institutional presence at the port.
Okechukwu said the chapter would begin construction of the secretariat as soon as possible, adding that the project would provide NAGAFF with its first permanent operational base in Onne.
He appealed to members, corporate organisations and other stakeholders to support the initiative to ensure the timely completion of the project.
Beyond the proposed secretariat, Okechukwu said his administration had focused on rebuilding unity within the chapter after assuming office, noting that efforts to resolve internal disagreements had restored confidence among members.
According to him, the chapter has also renovated its office, provided furniture and office equipment, and introduced measures aimed at improving administrative efficiency.
The chairman said NAGAFF had sustained a cordial working relationship with the Nigeria Customs Service, terminal operators, importers and other stakeholders to facilitate smoother cargo clearance and improve port operations.
He urged members to comply with government regulations and professional standards while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to continuous capacity building through seminars and workshops.
Okechukwu also acknowledged the contributions of the founder of NAGAFF, Chief Boniface Aniebonam, and the association’s National President, Mr. Tochukwu Ezisi, for their roles in strengthening the organisation over the years.
Stakeholders at the event described the acquisition of land for the proposed secretariat as a significant step in the growth of the Onne chapter.
Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Onne Seaport Chapter, Chief Ifeanyi Isikaku, commended the initiative and urged the chapter to commence development of the site without delay.
Similar commendations came from the National Vice President of NAGAFF, Eastern Zone, Comrade Ngozi Uzohuo, former Onne Chapter Chairman and Board of Trustees member, Hon. Christopher Ibeabuchi Uwakwe, and NAGAFF Administrator for Ibeto Chapter and Area 1, Chief Patrick Ogbo, who encouraged members to continue supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening the association.
The event also featured the presentation of an Award of Good Leadership to Okechukwu by representatives of freight forwarding associations operating at Onne Port in recognition of what they described as his achievements during his first year in office.
