The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has called on the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) to move beyond operating in isolation and foster stronger collaborations with key stakeholders in the maritime industry. The union made this request during a crucial visit by CRFFN Registrar, Kingsley Igwe, to the MWUN headquarters.
The Need for Integration with Industry Stakeholders
During the meeting, MWUN President-General, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, emphasized the importance of CRFFN working closely with various stakeholders, including labour unions, to effectively achieve its regulatory mandate. Adeyanju, who also serves as the Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), pointed out that the council’s challenges largely stem from its inability to fully integrate with crucial players in the freight forwarding value chain.
Adewale Adeyanju stressed that collaboration and consultation with industry players could enhance the regulatory body’s effectiveness and improve the overall functionality of the maritime sector. He pointed out that CRFFN’s struggles could be traced to a lack of cohesive efforts with industry stakeholders who directly influence the sector’s growth and operations.
CRFFN’s Transformation Plans and Future Goals
In response, CRFFN Registrar Kingsley Igwe assured the MWUN leadership that the council was undergoing significant transformations aimed at making it a more integral part of Nigeria’s maritime landscape. Igwe expressed the council’s commitment to overcoming its previous challenges, likening its journey to a “biblical exodus” as it sought to establish itself as a credible regulatory authority in the industry.
Igwe also acknowledged the financial challenges faced by the council, including salary delays for CRFFN workers in January and February due to bureaucratic hurdles. However, he emphasized that with the council’s full inclusion in the federal budget, these issues would be resolved moving forward. “The days of slavery are over. Our staff can now be assured that their salaries are secured,” Igwe affirmed.
A Strategic Move to Strengthen Industry Alliances
This visit is seen as part of CRFFN’s strategy to strengthen its position within the maritime industry and enhance its alliances, particularly with the maritime labour sector. The meeting comes ahead of Comrade Adewale Adeyanju’s retirement from MWUN on March 28, 2025, marking a significant moment in the union’s and council’s ongoing relationship-building efforts.
CRFFN’s Push to Rebuild Trust in the Maritime Sector
After years of credibility concerns and leadership crises, CRFFN is now focused on regaining the trust of industry stakeholders. The regulatory body is working to reposition itself and demonstrate its capacity to foster growth and innovation within Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Conclusion: Collaborative Efforts for a Stronger Maritime Sector
As the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria continues to advocate for collaboration, the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria is committed to its transformation and aims to strengthen its partnerships with all maritime stakeholders. By working together, both organizations hope to improve the regulatory environment and support the growth of Nigeria’s maritime industry.
