The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has called for the immediate suspension and refund of what it describes as illegal tolls and charges allegedly imposed on freight forwarders at some bonded terminals in Lagos.

The demand was contained in a notice issued by Alhaji Ibrahim Tanko, National Coordinator of NAGAFF’s 100 Percent Compliance Team.

NAGAFF accused some terminal operators and individuals allegedly linked to the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) of imposing unauthorized charges on cargo handling activities.

According to the association, the disputed charges have reportedly accumulated to more than ₦178 million, raising concerns among freight forwarders operating through the affected terminals.

NAGAFF has given the terminals a seven-day ultimatum to provide valid legal and regulatory documents authorising the disputed charges.

The association said the absence of official receipts and clear evidence of regulatory approval raises serious questions about the legality of the fees and places an unfair financial burden on freight forwarders.

NAGAFF is also demanding greater transparency and accountability in the maritime sector, insisting that all charges imposed on freight forwarders should have a clear legal and regulatory basis.

The association warned that failure to provide satisfactory documentation or comply with its demands could result in further regulatory and legal action against the affected terminals.

The development is expected to intensify calls for greater oversight of charges within Nigeria’s maritime and cargo clearance operations, particularly as freight forwarders continue to raise concerns over the rising cost of doing business.