Freight Agents Exempted From Lagos Lockdown

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  ANLCA members encouraged to return to ports

By Kenneth Jukpor

The ambiguity over freight forwarding operations at Lagos ports during the 14-days lockdown has been clarified as the NIgerian Ports Authority (NPA) has labeled activities of freight agents as essential services.

Nigeria’s President, Mohammadu Buhari had stated that the Lagos seaports would remain open despite declaring a stay home directive in Lagos cessation of movement for two weeks as part of efforts to curb the spread of coronavirus.

The President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Hon. Tony Iju Nwabunike had observed the conflicting directives yesterday and assured ANLCA members that he would clarify the issues with NPA.

Consequently, a press release issued by Nwabunike earlier today said, “The NPA has confirmed that our operations and activities are among essential services in Lagos ports.”

“As you are aware, earlier the Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Col. Hammed Ali directed full customs personnel presence. Implication is that necessary formalities for processing and clearance of cargoes from customs ports are unhindered.”

Meanwhile, he reiterated that only customs brokers, freight forwarders and haulage operators who have jobs at the ports should approach the ports during this period of restriction.

“Port operators visiting the ports should have their company identity cards and NPA port pass. I wish to also advise truck operators to adhere to the existing orderly call up system.”

“Don’t forget to abide by all health advise as postulated by National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) including washing of hands, usage of gloves, application of hand sanitisers and maintaining social distancing this period and beyond. Please be safe and alive to work tomorrow. Covid 19 is real,” the ANLCA President said.