The Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Fortune Global Shipping and Logistics Limited aimed at repositioning Nigeria’s freight forwarding and logistics sector for global competitiveness.
Speaking at the ceremony held on 11 February 2026, the Registrar/Chief Executive Officer of CRFFN, Kingsley Igwe, described the partnership as strategic and forward looking, noting that it aligns with the Council’s statutory mandate under Act 16 of 2007 to regulate and professionalise freight forwarding practice in Nigeria.
Igwe disclosed that the collaboration began on September 24th, 2025, following a visit by a CRFFN delegation to Fortune Global’s headquarters, where discussions with Dr. Eric Opa birthed a shared vision to transform and reposition the industry.
He stated that CRFFN is undergoing a comprehensive institutional transformation designed to strengthen its credibility as a transparent regulator, promote global best practices, and enhance its role in national trade facilitation.
According to him, the Council’s goal is to build a freight forwarding and logistics industry that is competitive, technology driven, ethically grounded, and globally respected, stressing that regulation alone cannot achieve this transformation without strategic partnerships.
Igwe noted that Fortune Global’s extensive operational network across six continents and its expertise in multimodal logistics, customs brokerage, supply chain solutions, and international trade services make it a strong partner in advancing the Council’s reform agenda.
He outlined areas of collaboration under the MoU to include capacity building and professional development, regulatory enhancement and policy research, adoption of global standards and accountability models, technology driven logistics solutions, and advocacy for pro-trade policies.
The agreement also provides a framework for training and mentorship programmes, seminars and workshops, policy advocacy initiatives, industry innovation, and broader institutional strengthening within the logistics ecosystem.
In a major announcement, Igwe unveiled plans for the establishment of the Logistics CEO Forum , which will serve as a technical advisory body to the Office of the Registrar/CEO and a structured platform for engagement between regulators and industry leaders.
The Forum will comprise selected logistics and freight forwarding executives who will provide input on regulatory reforms, licensing standards, research, and strategies to address trade barriers. Fortune Global has been invited to spearhead the initiative, which will be inaugurated by the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola.
Emphasising a trade first policy perspective, Igwe said every regulation and compliance framework must be assessed based on its impact on trade facilitation and competitiveness, adding that Nigeria must position itself as a logistics hub for West and Central Africa through transparency, digitalisation, and private sector collaboration.
He described the freight forwarding and logistics sector as the backbone of trade and a key driver of GDP growth, noting that strengthening logistics would boost manufacturing, agriculture, exports, and job creation. He reaffirmed CRFFN’s commitment to implementing the partnership and advancing a more professional and globally competitive logistics industry in Nigeria.
The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Fortune Global Logistics Limited, Dr. Eric Opah, while speaking at the event , described the partnership as a landmark step toward placing the sector in the national spotlight and fostering best practices in line with global standards.
Opah emphasised that logistics is a critical driver of government revenue, noting that every cargo movement through airports, seaports, or rail involves freight forwarding practitioners, making the industry a key contributor to Nigeria’s GDP. He highlighted Fortune Global’s experience and commitment, pointing out that the company has expanded its operations across Africa and the United States over 20 years, demonstrating its expertise in logistics and freight forwarding.
He expressed strong support for CRFFN’s vision, particularly the inauguration of the Forum of CEOs in the sector, which will provide a platform for industry leaders to share ideas, advise on strategic decisions, and contribute to the growth and professionalisation of the industry.
Opah also stressed the importance of professional standards, calling for only qualified and trained individuals to operate in the sector to ensure efficiency and accountability. He highlighted the need to eliminate unregulated trucks, improve port operations, and strengthen transport management systems, noting that Nigeria currently allows vehicles to operate without proper regulation or documentation.
He pledged that Fortune Global would actively support CRFFN’s initiatives, saying the company is ready to advance the agenda set by the Registrar and the Federal Ministry of Blue Economy. He underlined the company’s commitment to promoting global best practices and enhancing the credibility and efficiency of the Nigerian logistics sector.
According to Opah, this partnership marks a decisive step toward repositioning logistics as a respected and strategic industry within the national economy. He emphasised the role of collaboration between regulators and industry leaders in achieving long term reforms that benefit the entire sector.
He reaffirmed Fortune Global’s dedication to the growth and development of the logistics industry in Nigeria, celebrating the joint vision with CRFFN as a milestone for professionalisation, transparency, and economic impact.
One Comment