AZ Logistics Redefining Freight Forwarding, Enjoying Significant Referrals – Dr Mustapha
Dr Azeez Mustapha, Managing Director of AZ Logistics, a leading logistics firm in the maritime industry, stated that the company’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, integrity, and quality service has resulted in a substantial volume of referrals from satisfied clients. This approach has become a cornerstone of its growth strategy.
With over two decades of successful operation in the maritime sector, AZ Logistics has tackled challenges in importing documentation, customs clearance, maritime operations, shipping, business consultancy, and international freight forwarding. The firm has provided solutions across various industries, including aviation, automotive, and energy.
Speaking at the Congress of Nigerian Maritime Media Practitioners (CONMMEP) monthly roundtable forum in Lagos, Dr Mustapha reflected on his extensive experience: “I have been in the maritime industry for 23 years. I started with just two employees, and today we have grown to about 25. Our primary focus is problem-solving and providing solutions in customs operations, maritime shipping, business consultancy, and international freight forwarding.”
Dr Mustapha emphasised the importance of customer satisfaction: “We take great joy in our clients’ happiness and their referrals, which have shaped our business strategy. Customers do not want excuses; they want results. They seek solutions, and we have consistently delivered for over two decades. To the glory of God, most of our clients come to us through referrals. When someone recommends a service, it indicates either a strong personal relationship or the quality of the product.”
He elaborated on AZ Logistics’ operational scope: “We cover all logistics areas, including importing documentation, customs clearance, and perishable items. We are proud to serve multinational clients who appreciate our services.”
On export operations, he stated: “We handle exports from local to international destinations, offering end-to-end logistics solutions. We ensure prompt and stress-free deliveries, providing our customers with peace of mind.”
Discussing the future of freight forwarding, Dr Mustapha remarked, “Freight forwarding is the backbone of every economy. I entered this field to facilitate the movement of goods for consumer use, recognising the need for intermediaries to connect manufacturers and consumers. Freight forwarding is fundamentally about problem-solving.”
He lamented the issue of quackery within the profession: “Unfortunately, professionalism in our country is lacking. Many early practitioners lacked formal training, and regulatory agencies still operate with outdated perceptions. However, the landscape is gradually evolving.”
Dr Mustapha shared insights from a recent seminar organised by the Council for Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), emphasising the need for continuous learning: “Freight forwarding is essential to economic regulation. The government must do more to ensure that practitioners are competent, as many still do not understand the profession, which complicates the work of legitimate operators. This misrepresentation tarnishes our reputation.”
He concluded, “Our clients are primarily referrals due to our commitment to excellent service. With improved training and consultation, the industry can significantly enhance its standards. Regulatory authorities must scrutinise who they grant licences to and ensure they are engaging with qualified professionals. Unfortunately, some so-called clearing agents lack proper offices, making them difficult to trace in case of issues. This reflects poorly on our industry. For instance, in 2008, I was part of the World Partners Alliance, and when a shipment from Nigeria to Hong Kong faced delays through a third party, we refunded the client to uphold our reputation and integrity. That is our standard.”
