Licensed Customs Agents Urge Govt Action On Exchange Rates, Taxation To Revive Maritime Sector

Licensed customs agents in Lagos called on the Federal Government to prioritize addressing economic issues affecting the maritime sector on Tuesday.

Founder of the National Council of the Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents, Mr. Lucky Amiwero, emphasized the dire impact of economic woes on importation, stating, “The government should focus on these issues affecting many people. Importers no longer bring in goods as usual.”

Expressing concern, Amiwero highlighted closures of medium and small-scale businesses due to worsening economic challenges, urging the government to tackle floating exchange rates and fuel subsidy issues.

Echoing these sentiments, Vice President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, Nnadi Ugochukwu, criticized excessive taxation, questioning levies on essential goods like trailers and tankers in the pursuit of revenue.

Ugochukwu advocated for a reevaluation of Nigeria’s rice production approach, urging the lifting of the rice importation ban due to widespread hunger.

Former Chairman of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, Murtala Muhammed Airport Chapter, Olusegun Musa, urged the government to establish consistent policies, inviting the Comptroller General of Customs to engage stakeholders for improved systems and direction in import-export operations.

Stakeholders unanimously call for government action and engagement to address economic challenges impacting the maritime industry and create a sustainable framework for its growth and stability.