Chief Amb. Dr. Afam Chukwuma, Deputy National President of NAGAFF and CEO of International Supply Chain Systems Limited, addressed maritime stakeholders at the Congress of Nigerian Maritime Media Practitioners (CONMMEP) Monthly Roundtable held on Thursday. He emphasized that achieving a 24-hour cargo clearance system in Nigeria is entirely feasible.
During the session, which aimed to foster dialogue between maritime journalists and industry leaders, Chief Chukwuma called for enhanced training among freight forwarders and a shift towards a fully automated clearing system. He argued that automation would alleviate operational challenges and reduce financial burdens on importers and their agents.
Chukwuma praised the Nigeria Customs Service for its pioneering digital processes, stating, “Nigeria Customs Service remains the best government agency when it comes to electronics and digitalized processes.” He highlighted the effective integration of the Customs system, which allows real-time monitoring of revenue across commands, showcasing the agency’s commitment to modernization.
Despite acknowledging the teething problems associated with the recently introduced B’Odogwu platform, he expressed optimism about its future, urging stakeholders to support the initiative. “We need to be patient,” he said, noting improvements in the system within just three weeks.
Chukwuma also addressed the reintroduction of the Freight on Board (FoB) policy, suggesting that its implementation should be delayed until the benefits of B’Odogwu are realized. He urged Customs to consider provisional releases to ease the financial strain on freight forwarders and importers, advocating for a grace period of 21 days to mitigate demurrage charges.
In closing, Chief Chukwuma reiterated his belief in the potential for a 24-hour cargo clearance system, asserting, “Achieving 24 hours cargo clearance is not a rocket science. We need to make it work no matter what it takes.” His remarks reflect a strong commitment to improving Nigeria’s maritime logistics and enhancing the nation’s economic landscape.
