AIG Okunade Reaffirms Partnership With Freight Forwarders During AREFFN Courtesy Visit.
AIG Okunade Reaffirms Partnership With Freight Forwarders During AREFFN Courtesy Visit.
Lucky Akra
The Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of the Maritime Police Command, AIG Okunade Ronke Nurat, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with stakeholders in the maritime sector to enhance security, professionalism and efficient service delivery.
AIG Okunade gave the assurance on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, while receiving the Acting President of the Association of Registered Freight Forwarders, Nigeria (AREFFN), Chief (Fwdr) Obiekezie Francis Uchenna, and his delegation on a maiden courtesy visit to the Maritime Police Command Headquarters at the Force Headquarters Annex, Obalende, Lagos.
Speaking during the visit, Chief Uchenna thanked the AIG for the warm reception and hospitality extended to his delegation. He explained that the visit was aimed at introducing the Association’s new leadership to the Maritime Police Command, formally notifying the Command of the recent leadership transition within AREFFN, and reinforcing the longstanding relationship between both organisations.
The AREFFN Acting President reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to working closely with the Maritime Police Command to promote a secure and efficient port environment. He said the Association remains dedicated to protecting the legitimate interests of its members, particularly in ensuring seamless cargo clearance at the nation’s seaports, while supporting initiatives that strengthen maritime security and facilitate lawful trade.
In her response, AIG Okunade congratulated Chief Uchenna on his appointment and assured the delegation of the Command’s readiness to sustain a relationship built on mutual respect, cooperation and continuous engagement with stakeholders in the maritime industry.
She noted that since assuming office, the Command has implemented deliberate measures to improve service delivery in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, emphasizing that the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to serving the public and safeguarding national interests with professionalism, fairness and integrity.
The AIG also stressed that the Police have a statutory responsibility to investigate matters based on credible intelligence in the interest of public safety and national security. She urged members of AREFFN to support law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information and warned against shielding individuals involved in criminal activities within the maritime sector.
According to her, exposing criminal elements and collaborating with security agencies are critical to maintaining a safe, secure and business-friendly maritime environment.
The Maritime Police Command reiterated its commitment to deepening partnerships with stakeholders through sustained collaboration, intelligence sharing and effective policing to promote maritime safety, national security and economic prosperity.
