Joyce Mmereole Okoli
- In a recent press release, Alhaji Tanko Ibrahim, National Coordinator , 100% Compliance Team of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (Nagaff), highlighted corruption as the primary cause of unrest in Nigeria. He emphasized that corruption, along with a lack of education, undermines the country’s stability.
“Continuing to tolerate corruption and neglecting education is akin to building a castle on shifting sand,” stated Ibrahim.
He called for a collective effort from Nigerians to respect and obey the rule of law, stressing that the responsibility lies with the citizens rather than solely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu or state governments.
Ibrahim particularly addressed the maritime trade and transportation sector, urging for integrity and adherence to regulations. He clarified that government agency heads at ports and borders do not sanction extortion, and officers’ duties are to ensure compliance with import and export regulations.
Nagaff’s compliance team is committed to supporting the federal government, Nigeria Customs, and Nigeria Police in promoting best practices at customs ports and border stations. Ibrahim lamented the pervasive corruption across all sectors and called for a unified effort to confront these issues.
To exemplify their commitment, Ibrahim pointed out a specific corrupt officer at the Maritime Police Command in Obalende, Lagos. Despite multiple warnings and interventions, this officer has continued his malpractices. Ibrahim assured that Nagaff would provide evidence for further investigation by the Inspector General of Police.
“This observation is forwarded to the Inspector General of Police and DIG Finance for action,” said Ibrahim.
He reiterated Nagaff’s resolve to expose corrupt officers and support the federal government in this crucial period.