How Igbo Freight Forwarders are Playing a Pivotal Role in Sustaining Nigeria’s Commercial Landscape 

 Amid the economic turbulence and policy uncertainty, Igbo freight forwarders have remained resilient, playing a pivotal role in sustaining Nigeria’s commercial landscape. Precious Ugwuzor writes that this was the thrust of the recent gathering of the Ndi-Igbo Freight Forwarders Association (Airport Chapter) at the inauguration ceremony of the new executives and end of the year party 

Undoubtedly, the freight forwarding industry faces a myriad of challenges, predominantly tied to Nigeria’s volatile exchange rate. Thus, at a recent event marking the inauguration of the Ndigbo Freight Forwarders’ executive (Airport Chapter) at the NAHCO shed in Lagos, stakeholders reflected on the community’s economic contributions, challenges, and vision for the future.

The event was both a reflection of their struggles and a celebration of their indomitable spirit. For these freight forwarders, unity, resilience, and proactive leadership remain their guiding principles as they navigate challenges and continue to contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth.

Tackling Challenge of Unpredictability 

Mazi Ifeanyi Lekwauwa, Treasurer of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), explained how currency fluctuations create unpredictability for importers and agents alike. “You collect a job with a mindset that the duty you’re going to pay is N10 million, but by the time you’re ready to pay, it’s N13 million,” he shared. 

 Recalling a personal experience, Lekwauwa described how exchange rate changes added N6 million to his clearing costs over a weekend. “What if I didn’t have the capacity to pay? That would have ended my business with that client,” he said. He proposed that the government adopt a six-month fixed exchange rate to enable businesses to plan.

 “Stability in the naira-to-dollar rate would help importers, agents, and the entire economy,” he argued. The economic instability has reduced import volumes, forcing traders to adjust. “A company that used to bring in five to 10containers every month now brings in just one every three months,” said Lekwauwa. 

This decline impacts not just the freight forwarding sector but also manufacturers, retailers, and even occasional importers. 

Resilience of Igbo Traders 

 Former ANLCA Chairman Nze Aloy Igwe acknowledged the resilience of Igbo entrepreneurs. “Igbos are synonymous with commerce,” he stated. “As individual freight forwarders, they are pooling resources together to help the economy grow.” He praised the newly inaugurated executives, expressing optimism about their ability to unite Ndigbo at the airport and elevate their collective impact.

 Mazi Udeagha Nwosu, a former chairman of the Ndigbo Freight Forwarders, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of collective effort. “As a group, we can get issues sorted. Most of the time, we face challenges because we come from far away. But our association protects our interests and ensures disputes are resolved before they escalate,” he said. 

 The freight forwarding sector’s woes extend to government policies, particularly those that lack timely implementation. “The government announced a duty exemption for rice in July, but it has not been implemented,” said Nwosu. “A bag of rice now costs nearly N100,000. How do you explain that?” 

 Despite these hurdles, the Igbo freight forwarders’ community remains hopeful. Nwosu underscored their resilience: “We are Igbos. We survive in tough situations. We are proactive and can always devise means of survival.” 

Charge to New Executives 

 Ex-officio member Mr. Ejike Ngwu highlighted the importance of leadership in driving progress. “Leadership is about capacity and integrity,” he noted. “I believe the newly inaugurated executives will move Ndigbo forward. 

They have demonstrated their capacity, and I wish them well.” Ngwu also addressed the broader context of marginalisation. “We can’t talk about Ndigbo without mentioning marginalisation,” he remarked. “But we are an integral part of this nation. Ndigbo contribute significantly to Nigeria’s GDP, and we will not be stopped.” 

 As the year draws to a close, the freight forwarders celebrated their achievements and looked forward to a brighter future. “We started this year in tough conditions but are ending it with praise,” said Nwosu.

Critical Role in Economy 

 Dr. Ngozi Anosike, Deputy Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service in charge of the NAHCO shed, lauded the freight forwarders, emphasising their critical role in Nigeria’s economy. “The Igbo freight forwarders are an integral part of the people bringing value to the economic chain of this country. When you talk of commerce, you think of the Igbos. They are hardworking people, and I am very proud of them.”

Her advice to the group was succinct yet profound: “Bring unity amongst yourselves and form a formidable team. Unity makes you unbreakable.” 

Commitment to a Continued Legacy 

Elder Dr. Obed Okike, the new Chairman of the Ndi-Igbo Freight Forwarders Association at the Airport, expressed deep gratitude and a sense of responsibility for his new role. He thanked the members for their support and acknowledged the leadership of the outgoing Chairman, Sir Stanley Ekwueme (KSJI), whose efforts, including modernising the association’s infrastructure and establishing a Welfare Committee, have laid a strong foundation.

 Dr. Okike committed to continuing this legacy, focusing on member welfare, improving infrastructure, and fostering professional excellence. He emphasised unity and collaboration within the association, drawing on the Igbo proverb, “When the right hand washes the left, and the left washes the right, both hands become clean,” as a guiding principle for the future.

Also speaking, Prince Sir Stanley Ekwueme (KSJI), the outgone Chairman, thanked everyone for their support during his tenure. He reflected on the challenges faced, including the lack of a functional Board of Trustees, leadership conflicts, and the impact of COVID-19. 

Despite these challenges, his leadership focused on member welfare, leading to the creation of a Welfare Committee and an account to support less privileged members. He also upgraded the association’s infrastructure. 

Ekwueme expressed pride in the transparent election process that ushered in the new leadership and urged the incoming team to uphold the unity of Ndi-Igbo and address any gaps for continued progress.

Mandate Delivered 

On the mandate given to the committee, Chairperson of the 2024 Committee, Mrs. Mizpah Anyanwu said: “Within the period the committee was set up, we were given a mandate to deliver an impressive event that brought stakeholders together.

“The committee was able to achieve this due to the support received from members, friends and well-wishers of the association. I want to thank the leadership of Ndigbo Freight Forwarders Association for the opportunity to have served and also thank all those who supported us to ensure we had a beautiful outing.”

From the commendations the committee received from members for hosting a momentous occasion, it’s safe to say that they delivered on the mandate given to them unite members and ensure meaningful deliberations.