FG should license agents for more bonded terminals---MD ADEBOWALE

 Managing Director, Waltolye Limited, Mr. AtoloyeAdebowale, was recently honoured by Ports and Terminal Management Academy of Nigeria for contributing to the economy of the nation. He discusses business and the way forward with Esther Egbe

 How long have you been in this business?

 I have been in the business for about 13 years ago. Then I started with Kypton Maritime and God has been faithful to me.

What did you study in School?

 I study shipping and transportation.

 Why did you go into this kind of Business?

I had interest in importing and exporting goods when I was young. And when I joined the first company I worked with, my interest grew wider because of the way things were done.

 What are the challenges in the business of clearing and forwarding?

 The challenge in this business is that when we go to importers for business, most of them are not ready to put in all their best in making sure that the business goes smoothly. For example, when we are given a consignment to clear, some of them know that we are supposed to liaise with the customs on making sure that the goods are cleared. But they are not ready to part with the money that will be spent in that aspect. At times we end up even spending our money to make sure that our clients are satisfied.  

 What is your biggest fear in this business?

The biggest fear in this business is that we try to ensure that the goods we are clearing get to the final destination intact and in good condition.

How did you feel today being recognised by the government?

 I feel honored, I feel great and I thank God for honoring me.

How has your company contributed to the economy of this country?  

We have in one way or the other contributed to the economic growth of this country by helping/assisting the youth to be gainfully employed .We are helping in a little way we can to reduce the rate of unemployment in this country.

 When was your greatest memorable time as an agent?

My greatest memorable time as an agent was the day I was Awarded Fellow of Port & Terminal Management Academy.

 Have you had any problem with customs officer before, how was it like?

 Customs officers can frustrate an agent if she/he is not careful enough. We had some problems with Customs before and we thank God that the issues were resolved when we complied with their demands.

What is the way forward for this kind of business in Nigeria?

 The major challenge in this business since inception is the way the Federal Government is increasing the Duty Payment (tariff) for some certain goods. This is making the importers relocate to other countries like Ghana, Sierra Leone, and other neighbouring countries to establish their businesses. The rate of unemployment in Nigeria is fast growing as a result of the tariff issues.

The way forward is that the Federal Government should at least charge tariffs at a reasonable percentage that will allow the importers to make more profit and create more jobs for the youth. The Federal Government should also give agents the license to create more bonded terminals. This will reduce the congestion in the port.