Govt Exemption Of Dangote, BUA From Land Borders Closure ; A Sign Of Gradual Reopening – NAGAFF Chieftain

The Western Zone Coordinator , National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) Dr Fred Ajuzie has expressed optimism over the exemption of Dangote and BUA Groups from land borders closure, saying its an avenue for the Federal Government to gradually reopen the international frontiers for businesses to thrive.

Ajuzie in a chat with newsmen in Lagos on Thursday, was reacting against the backdrop of government exemption of the two conglomerates from border closure.

The federal government had shutdown the borders against neighbouring countries in the sub region for over a year; a situation that has stirred mixed reactions among businessmen and investors across the country.

The NAGAFF stalwart in his submission, however commended the innovation by the Buhari led administration ,noting that more conglomerates may likely be considered in few weeks to come.

He also reiterated that the conglomerates have been tested and trusted by the government as Nigerian brands thus must be consistent in the production chain line within the sub Saharan region.

The Chief Executive Officer, Pat – Fuze Nigeria Limited, a freight forwarding and customs broke outfit, noted that government actions to allow some of the investors to transact their businesses along the international frontiers despite the closure was devoid of tribal and political colouration .

According to him, Dangote and BUA Groups deserved the exemption, following their contribution to nation building and economy sustainability.

While stressing the importance of the conglomerates brand , he added that: “This is not about sentiment because what government has done now is that they are about to reopen the borders.

“I think the government is listening to the masses and they are about to reopen the borders. The case of Dangote and BUA is phase one of the process.

“Very soon we witness phase 2 and 3 because the government cannot come out to allow everybody to use the border and I believe it is going to be in batches.

“The borders were closed for some particular reasons which include massive smuggling of rice, cars ,PMS and even small arms therefore it won’t be wise to pronounce reopening of the border to everybody at once.”

While highlighting activities of the association over issues bothering on gridlock, Ajuzie explained that the 100% Compliance team in conjunction with Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO) will continue to synergize to ensure inflow of trucks along the port corridors.

By Roland Ekama