New ANLCA BoT urged to tackle challenges plaguing Customs brokers
By Steve Agbota
Senior Special Adviser to the National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) on Government Warehouses, Olawale Cole, has called on the newly elected members of the association’s Board of Trustees (BoT) to work collaboratively in addressing the pressing challenges facing Nigeria’s Customs brokerage industry.
The newly elected BoT members comprise prominent figures in the industry, including Taiwo Mustapha, Ernest Elochukwu, Kingsley Offor, Dennis Okafor, Sunday Momoh, Dayo Azeez, Sanni Utai, Tunde Awonuga, and Ademola Mumuney. In a congratulatory message, Cole praised their election victory, urging them to prioritize the collective interests of ANLCA over any personal or sectional agendas.
Acknowledging the depth of experience the new BoT members bring to the table, Cole expressed confidence in their ability to drive progress and development within both ANLCA and the broader maritime industry. He stressed the importance of unity and cooperation within the association, emphasizing that the success of the new board would largely depend on their ability to bridge internal divisions and strengthen ANLCA’s position as a key player in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
“ANLCA stands at a pivotal moment,” Cole remarked. “The decisions made by this new Board of Trustees will shape the future of the association and the entire Customs brokerage industry. This is not the time for division but for collaboration, as we work together for the greater good.”
He also encouraged the new BoT members to be proactive in their leadership roles, advocating for policies that would enhance the professionalism and integrity of Customs agents across the country. Cole highlighted the importance of continuous dialogue between the BoT and ANLCA’s executive leadership, noting that effective communication is vital for the association’s success.
Touching on the key issues facing Customs brokers in Nigeria, Cole pointed to the need for better regulatory frameworks, improved access to government warehouses, and intensified efforts to combat corruption within the industry. He urged the new board to engage closely with government agencies and other stakeholders to tackle these challenges head-on.
“The Customs brokerage profession is evolving rapidly, and ANLCA must lead the way in this transformation,” Cole added. “We need forward-thinking policies that not only improve operational efficiency but also safeguard the interests of our members. I believe the new Board of Trustees has the capacity to guide us in this direction.”
Cole also took a moment to commend the outgoing BoT members for their dedication and service to the association, urging them to continue supporting the new board during the transition period. He noted that their experience and guidance would be invaluable as ANLCA moves forward.
The election of the new BoT members is seen as a significant opportunity for ANLCA to strengthen its leadership and address long-standing challenges in the Customs brokerage sector. With a united and capable board, the association is poised to play a more influential role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s maritime and logistics industries.
