The Nigerian freight forwarding industry is at a crossroads, facing the urgent need to adapt to a rapidly evolving global landscape. Stakeholders are calling for a significant shift in the approach to training and regulation, emphasizing the critical role of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) in driving this transformation. The core message is clear: modernizing skills and broadening regulatory oversight are essential for Nigerian freight forwarders to thrive in an increasingly competitive international market. This requires a comprehensive strategy that prioritizes practical, accessible, and relevant training programs alongside a more inclusive regulatory framework.
The current discourse highlights a growing disconnect between the existing training programs and the actual needs of freight forwarders. Industry experts argue that the focus should shift from superficial aspects like training venue comfort to the substance of the curriculum itself. Pius Ujubuonu, Executive Director of Synergy Index Limited, advocates for a curriculum centered on contemporary skills, particularly in information and communication technology (ICT) and networking. He stresses the importance of “nearness, affordability, and usefulness” as guiding principles for CRFFN’s training strategy. This translates to accessible training locations, reasonable costs, and a curriculum directly applicable to the daily challenges and opportunities faced by freight forwarders. The goal is to equip professionals with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of modern trade, including digital platforms, data analytics, and global supply chain management.
Beyond technical skills, the call for modernization extends to the regulatory framework governing the freight forwarding sector. Ujubuonu recommends broadening the CRFFN’s scope to encompass a wider range of service providers within the freight forwarding chain. This includes incorporating consolidators, warehouse agents, international freight agents, chandlers, and stevedores. Such a holistic approach aims to foster a more cohesive and interconnected industry, ensuring all stakeholders are operating under a unified set of standards and regulations. This expanded regulatory oversight could streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance the overall professionalism of the Nigerian freight forwarding industry.
The urgency for reform is underscored by the perceived lack of tangible benefits from the CRFFN despite mandatory fees paid by freight forwarders. Abdulazeez Mukaila, Managing Director and CEO of Mickey Excellency Nigeria Limited, expresses disappointment with the lack of progress and impactful initiatives three months into the new administration. He calls for a clear blueprint from the CRFFN leadership, outlining a concrete plan to address the pressing challenges faced by freight forwarders. This includes a commitment to learning from past mistakes and engaging actively with industry stakeholders to develop solutions that are truly responsive to their needs.
Mukaila echoes the call for robust training programs, placing particular emphasis on adapting to technological advancements. He points to the rise of artificial intelligence and tools like ChatGPT, emphasizing the need for training that equips freight forwarders to leverage these technologies. He suggests a “train-the-trainer” model as a cost-effective approach to disseminating knowledge and skills widely within the industry. This approach empowers a core group of trainers who can then cascade the training to a larger number of freight forwarders, maximizing reach and impact. The ultimate goal is to ensure Nigerian freight forwarders are not left behind in the global race for technological proficiency.
The emphasis on accessibility and relevance is a recurring theme in the stakeholders’ demands. Mukaila advocates for a bottom-up approach to training, bringing it closer to the practitioners rather than hosting it in expensive, inaccessible venues. He argues that training should be tailored to the specific environment and the terms and conditions of service requirements within the Nigerian context. This resonates with Ujubuonu’s focus on “nearness,” emphasizing the importance of making training readily available to all freight forwarders, regardless of their location or financial constraints. This localized approach ensures that training is not only affordable but also directly applicable to the challenges and opportunities faced by practitioners on the ground.
The overarching message from maritime stakeholders is a call for immediate and substantial action from the CRFFN. The Nigerian freight forwarding industry needs a comprehensive overhaul of its training programs and regulatory framework to compete effectively on a global scale. This requires a shift in focus from superficial aspects to substantial improvements in the curriculum, incorporating contemporary skills, particularly in ICT and networking. Furthermore, a more inclusive regulatory framework that encompasses all stakeholders in the freight forwarding chain is crucial. The CRFFN must prioritize practical, accessible, and relevant training programs that empower freight forwarders to thrive in the age of artificial intelligence and rapidly evolving technologies. This transformative change requires a commitment to meaningful engagement with industry stakeholders, a clear blueprint for action, and a dedication to building a future-ready freight forwarding sector that can contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth.
