AT LCCI EVENT :NAGAFF Outlines Strategies To Promote Trade Facilitation

By Roland Ekama 

The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has extended its commendations to the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) for organizing a pivotal event on improving trade facilitation through port efficiency aimed at reducing the cost of doing business.

This statement was made during the LCCI event focused on “Trade Facilitation through Port Efficiency to Reduce the Cost of Doing Business,” reflecting a shared goal among stakeholders to enhance Nigeria’s maritime sector and economic prospects.

In a goodwill message delivered by NAGAFF’s National President, Fwdr. High Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, the association highlighted the critical importance of efficient port operations in boosting economic growth and streamlining international trade.

NAGAFF, President represented by the Secretary General, Godfrey Nwosu, at the event noted that the persistent challenges caused by port inefficiencies has escalate business costs and hamper Nigeria’s global competitiveness.

The NAGAFF boss commended LCCI’s initiative to convene key stakeholders, policymakers, and experts to strategize on enhancing port efficiency, aligning with NAGAFF’s advocacy for port reforms.

Ezisi further underscored the need for modernization of port infrastructure, digitalization of customs procedures, improved collaboration among government and private sector partners, capacity building, and transparency in charges.

The NAGAFF leader reaffirmed its commitment to active participation in efforts to improve port operations and reduce business costs, expressing optimism that the forum’s outcomes will significantly contribute to a more vibrant and competitive Nigerian economy.

The association boss called for collective action to address delays, bottlenecks, and procedural hurdles in the port system, emphasizing that such reforms are essential for a business-friendly environment and sustainable trade facilitation.

“NAGAFF remains committed to actively participating in discussions and initiatives aimed at improving port efficiency and reducing the cost of doing business in Nigeria. We are confident that the deliberations at this event will yield valuable recommendations that, when implemented, will significantly contribute to a more vibrant and competitive Nigerian economy.

“For too long, businesses have struggled with delays, bottlenecks, and cumbersome procedures within our port system. These inefficiencies not only inflate the cost of goods and services but also undermine our competitiveness in the global market. Therefore, this forum provides a valuable opportunity to collectively identify challenges, share insights, and propose actionable solutions.

“NAGAFF recognizes the critical role that efficient port operations play in driving economic growth and facilitating seamless international trade. As a key stakeholder in the Nigerian maritime sector, our members—licensed customs brokers and freight forwarders—face daily challenges stemming from port inefficiencies, which directly impact the cost of doing business.” the President reiterated