Customs agents working at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos are expressing their discontent over the alleged closure of their secretariat by the airport’s commandant, Chioma Udo. The agents, members of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents, claim that the closure, which occurred on February 5, is severely hindering their operations and resulting in substantial financial losses, including an estimated N500 billion loss in revenue for the federal government.
During interviews, several agents highlighted an ongoing internal dispute within the association, noting that a court had issued an order to maintain the status quo. Olufemi Kayode from Febak Olympic Global Services Limited stated that despite the court order, the secretariat remains locked.
“We appeal to the commandant to reopen our secretariat. There is a legal order in place to keep things as they are, yet the commandant has disregarded this,” Kayode explained.
Another agent, Makinde Aremu of Marktouch Shipping Agencies Limited, expressed concern that the closure could escalate tensions. He remarked, “Attempts to reason with the commandant have been unsuccessful. The association has managed to avoid conflict for over two years, and this situation could change if it continues.”
Nwokoma Ohuoba, owner of Bestdestiny Express Logistics and Allied Services Limited, emphasized the impact on government revenue, stating that the customs operations at the airport have suffered significant losses due to the closure.
When contacted, Commandant Udo responded that the decision to reopen the secretariat lies with the Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). She stated, “The facility belongs to FAAN, and any resolution regarding its reopening is dependent on the FAAN Managing Director.”
The customs agents are calling for immediate action to resolve the situation, urging respect for legal processes and the need for the secretariat to function effectively for the benefit of all stakeholders involved.
