NATIONAL COMPLIANCE JOINT TASKFORCE OF LICENSED CLEARING AGENTS COMMENCES OPERATION
… States mission and objectives
By Mcanthony Onuoha
The National Compliance Joint Taskforce of Licenced Clearing Agents (NCJTLCA) has commenced operations nationwide.
The Joint Taskforce kicked off during the weekend in Apapa Lagos at a well attended event.
Briefing journalists after the event, Its National President, Dr. Basil Chudi Nwolisa, stated that the Joint Taskforce consists of revered maritime practitioners from different maritime associations, including legal practitioners, and retired Customs officers.
According to him, building a formidable organization to tackle corruption in the ports requires a strategic approach.
He enumerated the missions and objectives of the Joint Taskforce to include:
To identify the specific challenges and areas of corruption in the ports.
To recruit experts in anti- corruption, law enforcement, and other relevant fields .
To collaborate with government agencies, port authorities, civil society organizations and private sector stakeholders.
To create a comprehensive plan outlining tactics, timelines, and resources needed.
To ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership.
To develop policies, procedures, and training programmes promoting ethical conduct.
To track progress, identify areas for improvement, and adjust strategies accordingly.
To encourage whistleblower reporting, protect witnesses, and promote a culture of transparency.
To push for legislative changes and policy improvements to address systemic corruption.
To offer assistance to individuals and organizations affected by corruption.
And to stay updated on best practices, share knowledge, and adapt to emerging challenges.
Dr. Nwolisa in the briefing opined that, “to be a giant killer in tackling corruption, we must live above board with integrity, transparency and accountability.”
He urged members to always bear in mind that tackling corruption in the ports is a complex task requiring persistence, collaboration, and a long-term commitment to change.
The Joint Taskforce has Mr. Ezekiel Onuoha as National Secretary while Barr. Barnabas Okoro is its Legal Adviser.
