Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) marked a major milestone today as it inaugurated committees for its Silver Jubilee celebration and announced an ambitious plan to acquire a new secretariat, with a projected investment of 500 million Naira.
In a speech delivered by NAGAFF’s National President, Chief Tochukwu Ezisi the event was described as a significant moment in the association’s 25-year history. Founded by Dr. Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam, NAGAFF has grown into a formidable player in the freight forwarding sector, championing integrity, professionalism, and excellence.
“This Silver Jubilee is not just a celebration of the past, but a reflection of the incredible progress we’ve made in the freight forwarding industry,”
“The work and dedication of every member have brought us to where we are today—a beacon of excellence in our sector,” ezisi noted.
The event served a dual purpose. In addition to launching the Silver Jubilee Planning Committee, the association also introduced a committee tasked with overseeing the acquisition of a new secretariat. The investment in the new headquarters marks a major step forward for the association.
“This 500 million Naira secretariat will serve as the hub for NAGAFF’s operations, symbolizing our progress and future growth.
“It’s not just a building; it’s a legacy for our members, and a foundation for continued innovation and leadership in the industry,” he stated.
The President commended the members of both committees, expressing confidence in their ability to deliver on the association’s bold vision. The committees were tasked with selecting the site for the new secretariat, negotiating terms, and ensuring that the facility meets NAGAFF’s standards of excellence.
The President concluded his speech with a call for unity and dedication, urging members to continue working together to achieve the association’s goals.
“The headquarter is important for us, government is continual. If it doesn’t get finished at my tenure, the incoming president will see to it that the dream becomes a reality.
“Let us embark on this exciting journey with great passion,” he said, reaffirming NAGAFF’s commitment to excellence.
Mazi Chidiebere, an elder of NAGAFF, shared his appreciation for the association’s current leadership, noting the positive changes introduced by Chief Ezisi. He also reflected on NAGAFF’s founding, crediting Dr. Aniebonam for registering the association and setting it on the path to success.
Afam Chukwuma, the Chairman of the Secretariat Committee and NAGAFF’s Deputy President (Seaports), acknowledged the magnitude of the project but expressed optimism about the team’s ability to achieve the goal.
“It is time for NAGAFF to be independent of any landlord. This is achievable and it is also do able. With the help of all of us here we can achieve it. On behalf of the committee, we accept the challenge,” he said.
Chukwuma also confirmed that a venue in Ikoyi has been secured for the Silver Jubilee celebration, set for November 16, 2024.