The Managing Principal of AZ Logistics Limited, Dr. Azeez Abayomi Mustapha, has called on the Federal Government and the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) to intensify regular training for clearing agents to promote professionalism and industry growth.
Speaking during the Congress of Nigerian Maritime Media Practitioners (CONMMEP) Monthly Round Table on Thursday, July 3, 2025, Dr. Mustapha expressed concern over growing cases of unprofessional conduct, extortion, and unethical behavior among some clearing agents, attributing it to a lack of adequate training and information.
He emphasized that the freight forwarding sector in Nigeria is plagued by individuals without physical offices or requisite industry knowledge, adding that such practices tarnish the country’s image globally. “You see people carrying polythene bags claiming to be clearing agents. Many have no proper training or office base, which creates problems for importers and exporters,” he stated.
Dr. Mustapha praised CRFFN for ongoing efforts to sanitize the sector but noted that more decisive actions were needed. He warned licensed customs agents against indiscriminate leasing of their licenses to individuals without proper traceability or competence.
Speaking about the impact of government policies on port operations, Mustapha lamented the sudden implementation of regulations without stakeholder engagement. He blamed these inconsistencies on the lack of industry experience among many policy makers, often political appointees rather than technocrats.
He also addressed ongoing extortion allegations linked to the Eto electronic call-up system, stating that while the initiative has improved port traffic management, corruption remains a major challenge. “Truck turnaround time is still high, and extortion persists due to the profit motives of some bad actors within the system,” he added.
On the controversial operations of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) of Customs, Mustapha criticized the interception of already-cleared consignments, describing it as counterproductive and a barrier to trade facilitation. He advocated that Customs resolve such issues internally rather than victimizing freight forwarders.
Highlighting the services of AZ Logistics, Mustapha said the company offers end-to-end solutions, including import documentation, perishable cargo handling, and door-to-door global delivery. He stressed the firm’s commitment to integrity, reliability, and customer satisfaction through referrals and excellent service delivery.
Dr. Mustapha also emphasized the need for Nigerian freight forwarders to embrace global best practices and technology, noting that the profession is central to economic development worldwide. “Freight forwarders are problem solvers, but in Nigeria, the profession is yet to reach its full potential,” he said.
He congratulated the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on his election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO), describing it as a major win for Nigeria and Africa. He lauded Adeniyi’s professionalism and visionary leadership, stating his confidence in the CG’s ability to surpass global expectations.
Mustapha also commended key Customs officers, including ACG Charles Orbih, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu of Apapa Command, and Comptroller Frank Onyeka of Tin-Can Command, for their outstanding performance in revenue generation and anti-smuggling enforcement.