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By Steve Agbota
The acting National President of Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) and a presidential candidate in the coming National Executive Committee (NECOM) election has vowed to transform the association into a respected and empowered profession, if elected as the next president.
Addressing members of the association at the Tincan Island Port in Lagos on Tuesday during his campaign, Farinto promised to bring about a positive transformation that would earn the profession the respect it deserves in the industry.
However, he acknowledged that licensed Customs agents play a c vital role as trade facilitators and revenue generators for the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
He expressed his regret that society often held an erroneous impression of their profession, leading to lack of respect. He assured members who were at the rally that under his leadership, the perception would change for the better.
“It is time for us to take control of our destiny. If we let this opportunity slip away, it may take another five years to regain it. We are a profession that deserves recognition and inclusion in policy formulation by the Federal Government. The World Customs Organization’s 2013 Year Book explicitly states that Customs administrations must involve Customs brokers as critical stakeholders. How many times have you been invited to Abuja, for God’s sake?” he asked.
He emphasised his commitment to promoting gender equality and youth empowerment within the association even as he pledged to ensure that women would not be confined to the kitchen alone, but would also have access to licenses and participate in the National Executive Committee.
“I recognised the meticulousness of women in the profession and believed their involvement would enhance its overall effectiveness. To empower the youth, I proposed the creation of two dedicated offices and the allocation of a minimum of 10 licenses per year to deserving young individuals,” he said.
Therefore, he urged the members to vote wisely, emphasising the importance of selecting credible candidates who would bring about positive change rather than those who only excelled in delivering vote of thanks at events.
