- Group rejigs Apapa, Tin Can chapter executives
The Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) is set to accredit Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON) with a six-man Committee comprising CRFFN and APFFLON officials already drafted for the exercise.
APFFLON’s National President, Otunba Frank Ogunojemite revealed this while speaking with journalists yesterday after the association restructured its leadership at Apapa port and Tin Can Island port chapters.
Ogunojemite stated that APFFLON had agreed to withdraw its legal suit against CRFFN while the Governing Board Chairman, Mr. Abubakar Tsanni also set-up the 6-man committee to accredit APFFLON if the body meets the requirements.
The APFFLON boss, however, expressed worry that this exercise is being truncated by some CRFFN Governing Board members from the other associations.
His words: “A committee was set-up between APFFLON and CRFFN to reconcile the conflicting issues and accredit APFFLON. I see no reason why APFFLON shouldn’t be accredited because we have met all the requirements. We deliberated on the court case and agreed to withdraw it as part of the conditions to make peace. However, I’ve received information that in the subsequent meeting between CRFFN board members, the representatives from other associations kicked against APFFLON’s accreditation.”
“They ganged against the decision of the Council. I suspect that this is a subtle way of pushing for the continuation of the 6-6-1-1-1 arrangement. It is unfortunate that these associations that haven’t paid subscriptions to CRFFN for over six years are stopping other legitimate associations from coming onboard.”
News Diet recalls that the Chairman, Media and Publicity at the CRFFN Governing Board, Hon. Muftahu Ya’u, earlier this month said that CRFFN will check the requirements needed for registration of associations and grant APFFLON that status if the group meets the stipulations in the CRFFN Act.
Speaking on the changes in the Apapa Chapter leadership, Ogunojemite said; “restructuring is ongoing in Apapa because of evolving changes for better input at the chapter. I want you to know that the new positions aren’t permanent but a reflection of your input so far”
“APFFLON is the only association that cuts across the nation’s borders and this is evident in the name of the association which carries Africa. The association started out at the airport which is very strategic. However, four years after, we have moved to seaports, border points and other African nations like South Africa and Ghana.”
Noting that there is going to be a reassessment of freight forwarding associations in the industry, he encouraged APFFLON members to register with CRFFN and prepare to contest for the next Governing Council elections.
“You should be supporting your chairman, but beyond that, also know that you’re creating a name for yourself. As we watch the Chapter successes, we are also looking at individual performances. If you have an idea, bring it onboard let’s grow by sharing. When there are problems, don’t hesitate to bring it onboard as well. If you don’t have a post today, please don’t be disappointed, you can also make an input in the association. You don’t need a title to contribute to APFFLON’s success,” he added.
In his remarks, the APFFLON Chairman, Apapa Chapter, Alhaji Ibrahim Hassan promised that the group will be united, tolerant and display exemplary leadership.
“We have a team that will make APFFLON proud. I can assure you that with this team the sky will be our starting point. There will be unity, peace and notable accomplishments,” Hassan said.
Newly inaugurated Apapa executives were; Vice Chairman, Hon. George Nwokedi; Secretary, Casmir Ezeoke; Financial Secretary, Nwankwo Ifeanyi; Assistant Secretary, Peter Arinze; Treasurer, Stephen Nwaolise; and the Welfare Officer, Abiodun Olufunke Omole.
The erstwhile Vice Chairman of APFFLON Tin Can Island Chapter, Prince Adekunle Ayeni was promoted to national level and replaced by Prince Olugbenga Adetayo.