Oyetola Clears Salary Backlog, Onyekachi Sets 2025 Agenda for Freight Forwarders
****CRFFN Clears Salary Arrears, Boosts Staff Morale
The new Registrar and CEO of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), Fwdr. Igwe Kingsley Onyekachi, has outlined his ambitious agenda for 2025, with a focus on improving revenue, professional standards, and staff welfare in the freight forwarding sector.
In his New Year message, Onyekachi expressed gratitude to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, for his support in clearing salary arrears and appointing him to lead CRFFN.
“Minister Oyetola’s timely intervention has restored hope among CRFFN staff by securing bailout funds to settle five months of unpaid salaries. We are grateful for his leadership and commitment to the welfare of our workers,” Onyekachi said.
Onyekachi revealed that five months of outstanding salaries were paid following the Minister’s intervention, with additional funds approved to settle arrears from August to December 2024. He assured staff that going forward, salaries would be paid promptly to boost morale and productivity.
“Our staff has endured hardship due to delayed salaries. With this intervention, we have turned a new leaf. I assure you that salary payments will now be regular, and we expect renewed dedication and commitment from our workforce,” he added.
The CRFFN boss highlighted four key pillars to drive the Council’s operations in 2025. Raising. Professional Standards
Onyekachi promised to enforce policies that promote. professionalism, compliance, and integrity in the freight logistics sector.
He pledged to enhance staff training through workshops, certifications, and seminars to keep freight forwarders updated on global best practices.
Onyekachi stressed the importance of working with agencies such as the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and Nigeria Shippers’ Council to streamline regulatory processes.
Beyond salary payments, Onyekachi promised to improve working conditions and welfare packages for CRFFN staff.
Onyekachi called for greater unity among stakeholders in the freight forwarding industry, emphasizing Nigeria’s strategic position as a key player in Africa’s trade sector.
“Our ports are critical to Nigeria’s economic growth. By fostering innovation and professionalism in the freight forwarding industry, we can strengthen Nigeria’s position in global trade,” he stated.
The CRFFN boss also highlighted the importance of mentorship and professional development, calling for more investment in education to prepare the industry for future challenges.
“My mission is to regulate the freight forwarding sector, promote professional growth, and ensure sustainable revenue generation for the Council. I urge all stakeholders to work together to achieve this vision,” Onyekachi concluded.