Customs agents, freight forwarders critical link in cargo operations – FAAN

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has described licensed customs agents and freight forwarders as a critical link between the airport and cargo owners, importers and exporters, noting that their experiences provide valuable insight into the effectiveness of the cargo operating environment.

Acknowledging their important role, the Managing Director/CE of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, emphasised that improved collaboration must be supported by compliance with relevant regulations, airport procedures, security requirements, documentation standards and professional best practices.

Represented by Mr Lekan Thomas, Director Cargo Development and Services, Kuku stated this during an engagement with top 100 licensed customs agents operating at the Pilgrims and Cargo Terminal (PCT) of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos.

The engagement, organized by the Directorate of Cargo Development and Services (DCDS) of FAAN, was aimed at strengthening collaboration, addressing operational challenges and improving Nigeria’s air cargo ecosystem.

Thomas further stated that the engagement would not be a one-off exercise, but part of a structured approach to identifying operational concerns, escalating them to the appropriate institutions and tracking progress towards resolution.

Participating agents and family forwarders were said to have welcomed the initiative while noting the importance of creating a platform where those directly involved in cargo processing and movement can engage FAAN, share their experiences and contribute to improving service delivery.

The stakeholders highlighted challenges affecting cargo clearance and movement at the PCT, including issues relating to documentation, processing, access and coordination among relevant agencies.

The engagement aligns with FAAN’s commitment to building a safer, more efficient, transparent and competitive air cargo industry through stronger stakeholder participation and improved service delivery.

Through the DCDS, FAAN will continue to deepen engagement with Licensed Customs Agents, freight forwarders and other stakeholders, with a focus on enhancing cargo throughput, facilitating trade and creating a more responsive business environment across Nigeria’s airports.