The Onne Seaport chapter chairmanship aspirant of Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Chief Godfrey Ifeanyi Isikaku (Onwa), has concluded the unveiling of his election manifesto, for the upcoming ANLCA chapter election at Onne Seaport.
Presenting his 10 point manifesto titled: “My Social Contract With ANLCA Members” in collaboration with the Progressive Team Initiative (PTI) at the Sweet Spirit Hotel, PortHarcourt, the Rivers State capital on the 16th of January, 2025, Chief Isikaku said: “As I present myself for service in this ANLCA election, I humbly offer this manifesto, which I term My Social Contract with ANLCA Members. This document is not just a list of promises; it is a commitment to transformative leadership, grounded in accountability, respect, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence for the benefit of all our esteemed members.
Speaking on “Respect and Obedience to ANLCA Constitution and Authorities,” Chief Isikaku said: “I pledge to uphold the sanctity of the ANLCA Constitution, recognizing it as the guiding framework for our collective governance. Every decision and action will be anchored in the principles of respect, transparency, and obedience to the authorities duly constituted under the association’s legal framework. This will ensure that order, justice, and fairness prevail at all times.”
Going forward on “Training and Educating Our Members,” he noted: “The growth of our association hinges on the knowledge and expertise of its members. I will prioritize the training and education of our members through regular workshops, seminars, and skill development programs tailored to meet the dynamic challenges of our industry. These initiatives will empower our members with the tools to excel in their professional engagements.”
On “Welfare Services to Our Members,” Chief Isikaku pointed out that: “The welfare of ANLCA members will remain a top priority. I will ensure the introduction and sustenance of welfare programs that address the needs of our members, from financial support in times of difficulty to assistance in professional endeavors. Our association thrives when every member feels valued and supported.”
While on “Ensuring 48-Hour Clearance of Legitimate Goods,” he said: “To foster efficiency in trade facilitation, I will champion the goal of ensuring the clearance of legitimate goods within 48 hours. This objective will be achieved through constructive engagements with Customs, terminal operators, and other stakeholders, eliminating unnecessary delays and bottlenecks.”
Responding on “Setting Up Committees for 24/7 Objective Compliance,” Onwa opined: “I will establish vibrant and functional committees to work tirelessly in driving our collective objectives. These committees will operate 24/7, ensuring real-time response and implementation of strategies that align with the goals of ANLCA and the expectations of its members.”
Reacting on “Building ANLCA Guest House with 500-Capacity Event and Meeting Center,” the MD/CEO, Godify Group of Companies said: “To enhance the infrastructure of our association, I commit to the construction of an ANLCA Guests House, complete with a state-of-the-art 500-capacity event and meeting center. This facility will serve as a hub for member interactions, training sessions, and social gatherings, fostering unity and a sense of belonging.”
On “Health Insurance for Members,” he maintained: “Good health is essential for productivity and well-being. I will implement a health insurance scheme that allows members to access medical facilities close to their homes. This initiative will ensure that our members and their families have access to quality healthcare services, reducing the financial burden of medical expenses.”
Responding on “Provision of More Shuttle Buses,” the Operator of Slot Bonded Terminal said: “Transportation remains a significant expense for many members. To ease this burden, I will work toward providing more shuttle buses, reducing transportation costs, and enhancing convenience for our members in their daily engagements.”
While on “Monthly Meetings and Reports to National Headquarters,” Onwa emphasized: “To ensure accountability and communication, I will institutionalize monthly meetings where members can voice their concerns, review progress, and provide input. Reports from these meetings will be diligently sent to the National Headquarters to maintain alignment with our national objectives and directives.”
Concluding on his 10th Social Contract which is on “Synergy with Customs, terminal operators, and seaport agencies'” the outgoing Vice Chairman, ANLCA, Onne Seaport chapter said: ‘The success of our association depends heavily on our relationships with key stakeholders. I will prioritize the development of a harmonious and productive working relationship with customs, terminal operators, and other agencies within the seaport. This synergy will enhance operational efficiency and mutual trust, creating a conducive environment for business growth.
“This manifesto is my solemn pledge to the members of ANLCA. It represents my vision for an association that stands tall as a beacon of excellence, unity, and progress. With your support, we will transform these objectives into tangible realities, fostering growth, improving welfare, and strengthening our collective voice in the industry. Together, we can achieve greatness.
“Your vote is a mandate for progress.” Chief Isikaku concluded.
Chief Isikaku, who assured members of ANLCA, Onne Seaport chapter of quality representation, if elected, debunked the insinuation that he will take over all the clients in Onitsha, Aba and PortHarcourt, if given the chairmanship position of ANLCA, Onne Seaport chapter.
He maintained that the likes of late Hon. Ossy Prestige Ossy, Chief Kingsley Offor and presently, Mr. Mike Ebeatu did not take over all the clients of ANLCA members because of their positions as ANLCA Chairmen, Onne Seaport chapter.
Chief Isikaku however, suggests that the best way to go is for ANLCA members to work in synergy and have a uniform price in their respective charges, even when they are dealing with same clients.
