The Sea Empowerment and Research Centre (SEREC) has emphasized the need for stronger regional cooperation among West African nations to harness the full potential of the International Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations (FIATA) and promote seamless regional trade integration.
Speaking in Abuja, SEREC’s Head of Research, Mr. Eugene Nweke, urged Nigeria to deepen its collaboration with neighbouring countries such as Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal to build a united regional presence within FIATA. He highlighted that such cooperation would enhance coordination on key initiatives like the Lagos–Abidjan transport corridor and other regional logistics frameworks.
According to Mr. Nweke, FIATA membership offers numerous benefits including global recognition, policy advocacy opportunities, professional development, and expanded international business networks within the freight forwarding and logistics sector.
However, he noted that Nigeria has yet to attain top leadership roles within FIATA, such as a Vice-Presidential seat on the Extended Board or Chair of a regional committee, which limits the country’s voice in global decision-making circles.
To strengthen Nigeria’s representation, SEREC recommended a clearer definition of roles between the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN)—the statutory regulatory agency—and the country’s various freight forwarding associations. This, the Centre said, would help project a unified and credible national voice internationally.
SEREC further advised that Nigeria should:
- Ensure full compliance with FIATA obligations, including timely dues payment and submission of reports.
- Increase participation in FIATA committees, working groups, and conferences.
- Encourage more Nigerian companies to register as individual FIATA members.
- Adopt FIATA’s digital and ethical standards, such as FIATA Docs, e-Freight tools, and global legal templates.
Additionally, the Centre called on the government and industry stakeholders to work towards hosting FIATA regional meetings, workshops, and conferences in Nigeria as a way of raising the country’s profile and positioning it as a leading logistics and trade hub in West Africa.
SEREC reaffirmed its commitment to driving policy research, collaboration, and advocacy aimed at enhancing maritime safety, logistics efficiency, and regional economic integration.
Date: October 29, 2025