Customs agents operating at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, have decried the continued closure of their secretariat by the airport commandant, Chioma Udo.
They alleged significant disruptions to their activities and a staggering revenue loss of nearly N500 billion for the federal government.
The agents, under the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents, claim the secretariat was shut down on February 5 despite a court order instructing all parties involved in an internal leadership dispute to maintain the status quo.
They insist that the closure has hindered their operations, particularly in processing registrations and data capturing, while also affecting customs revenue collection.
A representative of Febak Olympic Global Services Limited, Olufemi Kayode, described the closure as a violation of legal directives. “A court order restrained all parties from taking action, but despite this, the commandant locked up the association’s secretariat. We are appealing for the reopening of our office to enable smooth operations,” he stated.
Makinde Aremu of Marktouch Shipping Agencies Limited warned that the prolonged closure could escalate tensions among members.
“For over two years, we have managed our internal affairs without crisis, but this move may lead to unrest if not addressed promptly,” he cautioned.
Nwokoma Ohuoba, CEO of Bestdestiny Express Logistics and Allied Services Limited, highlighted the economic toll of the situation, stressing its impact on customs revenue.
“As major stakeholders in customs revenue generation, this closure has grossly affected the government’s earnings and our members’ livelihoods,” he noted.
When contacted for a response, Udo redirected inquiries to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, stating that the decision to reopen the facility lies with its management.
“The facility belongs to FAAN, and the resolution is dependent on the FAAN MD,” she stated.
