The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)’s recent mandate requiring all stakeholders operating within its ports to obtain a Port Pass has sparked controversy and debate among freight forwarders. Members of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) have questioned the necessity of this new pass, arguing that the existing identity cards issued by the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) should suffice as legitimate proof of identity and authorization for port access. This disagreement highlights a broader concern regarding the regulation and oversight of port operations in Nigeria, specifically the process of credentialing and granting access to individuals operating within the port ecosystem.
The NPA, through a notice issued by the Tincan Island Port Complex’s Port Manager, Abubakar Sani Isa, stipulated an April 30, 2025 deadline for obtaining the mandatory Port Pass. The notice emphasized that this pass would serve as the sole authorized permit for entry, citing the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code Level 1 enforcement as justification for this new security measure. The NPA stressed the potential security risks posed by unregulated access and warned that failure to comply with the new requirement would lead to access restrictions, effectively barring entry to those without the Port Pass. This rationale, however, has not convinced NAGAFF members, who see the new pass as redundant and an unnecessary layer of bureaucracy.
NAGAFF representatives have voiced their concerns about the government’s perceived failure to effectively regulate access to port operations. Mr. Afam Chukwuma, Deputy National President of NAGAFF Seaport Chapter, criticized the lack of robust certification processes and streamlined regulations, arguing that this has allowed unqualified individuals to operate within the freight forwarding industry. This lack of oversight, he argued, creates an environment where inexperienced and potentially unaccountable individuals can participate in critical port operations, potentially compromising efficiency and security. He stressed the need for a more rigorous system to differentiate between qualified professionals and those lacking the necessary credentials.
Mr. Chukwuma’s concerns were echoed by Mr. Eze Uchendu, Chairman of the Apapa chapter of NAGAFF, who directly challenged the NPA’s decision to introduce the Port Pass. He questioned the rationale behind requiring a new identification document when the CRFFN-issued identity card already exists and serves the purpose of identifying legitimate freight forwarders. The CRFFN, as the regulatory body for freight forwarding in Nigeria, is responsible for issuing these identification cards, which signifies that the holder has met the necessary requirements and is authorized to practice freight forwarding in the country. Therefore, NAGAFF argues, the CRFFN card should be sufficient for port access.
The core of the disagreement between NAGAFF and the NPA revolves around the recognition of the CRFFN identity card as a valid credential for port access. NAGAFF members believe that the implementation of the Port Pass is redundant, given the existing regulatory framework and the role of the CRFFN in credentialing freight forwarders. They argue that rather than introducing a new system, the NPA should work with the CRFFN to strengthen the existing system and ensure that only individuals with valid CRFFN identification are granted access to port facilities. This collaborative approach, they believe, would be a more efficient and effective way to regulate port access and enhance security.
This situation underscores the broader need for a clear and streamlined regulatory framework governing port operations in Nigeria. The current system, with its perceived loopholes and inconsistencies, has created an environment where unqualified individuals can operate, raising concerns about security, efficiency, and accountability. A more robust and collaborative approach involving the NPA, CRFFN, and other relevant stakeholders is essential to address these concerns and ensure the smooth and secure operation of Nigerian ports. This includes clarifying the roles and responsibilities of different agencies, establishing clear criteria for credentialing and access, and implementing effective enforcement mechanisms. Ultimately, a more comprehensive and coordinated approach to port regulation will benefit all stakeholders and contribute to the overall efficiency and security of the Nigerian maritime sector.
