Maritime stakeholders have urged the management of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria to adopt a comprehensive and practical approach to equip freight forwarders with modern skills to remain competitive on a global scale.
The stakeholders noted that the training is essential for ensuring effective regulation, industry growth, and improved operational efficiency for trade.
The Executive Director of Synergy Index Limited, Pius Ujubuonu, stressed the importance of developing modern and impactful curricula tailored to empower freight forwarders with cutting-edge tools, “particularly in information and communication technology and networking.”
He underscored the need for the CRFFN to prioritise three core principles in its training strategy, which include nearness, affordability, and usefulness.
Ujubuonu noted that the comfort of the training environment is less relevant if the curriculum does not equip participants with essential, contemporary skills.
“It is imperative that the CRFFN digs deep and creates proper, contemporary, and modern curricula that positively impact freight forwarders. This should include equipping them with ICT tools and networking skills crucial for the trade,” Ujubuonu said.
He further recommended that the CRFFN broaden its regulatory scope by engaging various service providers within the freight forwarding chain.
Ejibunu suggested incorporating consolidators, warehouse agents, international freight agents, chandlers, and stevedores into the framework to foster a more inclusive and cohesive industry.
Meanwhile, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Mickey Excellency Nigeria Limited, Abdulazeez Mukaila, called on the CRFFN leadership to clearly outline its blueprint and take immediate steps to address the pressing challenges faced by freight forwarders.
Mukaila expressed disappointment that despite paying mandatory fees for carrying containers to the CRFFN, freight forwarders have not experienced significant benefits, reforms, or impactful initiatives three months into the new administration.
He emphasised the need to learn from past mistakes and prioritise meaningful engagement with industry stakeholders.
Mukaila also advocated interventions in cargo processes and robust training programmes to be at the top of CRFFN’s agenda.
“The world is changing; artificial intelligence is taking over, and tools like ChatGPT are emerging. The Registrar must rise above the current level and offer classical, globally competitive training,” Mukaila said.
He suggested adopting a “train-the-trainers” model if funds are limited, ensuring that freight forwarders receive adequate training to remain competitive on a global scale.
Mukaila also emphasised the importance of a bottom-up approach to training, advocating accessibility and relevance.
He urged the CRFFN to bring training closer to practitioners rather than hosting it in high-end venues that may discourage participation.
Mukaila advised that the training should align with the environment and the terms and conditions of service requirements.
