Importers Association of Nigeria (IMAN) on Tuesday, 18th of June, 2024, in Onitsha, Anambra State, affirmed High Chief (Dr) George Ndubisi as its National Vice President.
The Board of Trustees of the Association also affirmed Dr. Basil Chudi Nwolisa Head of Customs, Shipping and Terminal Operations (CSTO).
Letters of affirmation were handed over to the new executive members by the Association’s National President and Chairman, Board of Trustees, Chief Gilbert Obi at a brief ceremony.
High Chief (Dr) George Ndubisi in his acceptance speech, stated that as National Vice president of Importers Association of Nigeria IMAN, he would effectively collaborate with the President to add fresh impetus to the association as well as reposition it to take its place in the comity of other reputable trade organizations within West African Subregion.
He noted that the contributions of Nigerian importers to the national economy can not be over emphasised and stressed the need for the authorities, especially the Nigeria Customs, the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Trade and Investment to always consider Nigerian Importers as major players in the National economic growth and sustainability, and for that, deserve better treatment than the harsh economic policies that are increasingly emasculating their businesses and livelihoods.
In his speech, Head, Customs, Shipping Companies and Terminal Operations- CSTO, Dr. Basil Nwolisa, stated that the primary objectives of the leadership of the and Board of Trustees of Importers Association of Nigeria- IMAN are: To
protect and promote the interests of member importers, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed.
To provide guidance and support on navigating government policies, regulations, and procedures.
To facilitate networking and collaboration among members, foster business growth and opportunities.
To advocate for policy reforms that benefit the importing community and the economy at large.
To offer training and education on topics relevant to importers, such as compliance, logistics, and trade agreements.
To foster partnerships with government agencies, industry stakeholders, and international organizations to stay informed and influence policy decisions.
To monitor and analyze government policy directions and regulatory changes, providing timely updates and advice to members.
And to promote ethical business practices and compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
According to Dr. Nwolisa, “by focusing on these objectives, the leadership can effectively serve the interests of member importers, support their business success, and contribute to the overall growth and development of the industry.”
He regretted that many importers have been frustrated out of business by harsh economic policies and high-handedness of some officers of the Nigeria Customs, shipping Companies and Terminal operators as well as some unscrupulous elements who claim to be clearing agents but defraud unsuspecting importers of their investments.
Nwolisa promised to use his new office to confront some of the challenges that threaten the investment and growth of Nigerian importers, assuring that the association under the stewardship of the National President, Chief Gilbert Obi with the unwavering support of the National and Zonal officers, will reposition Importers Association of Nigeria IMAN for greater benefit of its members and the country in general.
By Mcanthony Onuoha
