By Sandra Chukwunyere Chairmanship aspirant for the Apapa Chapter of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Chief Obinali Emeka, popularly known as Omena Cash, on Wednesday officially flagged off his campaign ahead of the association’s 2026 chapter elections, attracting a large turnout of members, supporters and key stakeholders in Apapa.
The campaign launch, which marked the commencement of NAGAFF’s chapter electioneering activities, drew the presence of top officials and stakeholders of the association, underscoring the strategic importance of the Apapa chapter, which operates within Nigeria’s busiest seaport.
Speaking at the event, NAGAFF Founder, Dr. Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam, commended the National President, High Chief Emmanuel Tochukwu Ezisi, for his leadership and commitment to the growth of the association. He particularly praised Ezisi for facilitating the acquisition of the NAGAFF Village, describing the development as a landmark achievement that ended years of operating from rented facilities and provided the association with a permanent secretariat.
Aniebonam also acknowledged the contributions of Alhaji Ibrahim Tanko, National Coordinator of the NAGAFF 100 Percent Compliance Team, for his dedication and commitment to the association. Referring to Tanko as his “third son,” the founder praised his unwavering support for NAGAFF’s development and his role in mobilising members for the campaign flag-off.
The founder equally recognised Dr. Segun Musa, the longest-serving chairman of the Murtala Muhammed Airport chapter, for his contributions to the association. Although absent from the event, Musa was commended for laying a solid foundation whose impact continues to be felt within the chapter.
Attention later shifted to the Apapa chairmanship race as Aniebonam spoke glowingly about Omena Cash, drawing enthusiastic chants of “Incoming Chairman” from supporters. The reaction from the crowd reflected the aspirant’s growing popularity among members and the confidence many have in his leadership aspirations.
Adding his voice, Alhaji Tanko openly endorsed Omena Cash, describing him as his protégé and expressing confidence in his ability to lead the Apapa chapter effectively. He stressed the need to provide opportunities for younger professionals to contribute fresh ideas and energy to the association, noting that Omena Cash represents a new generation of leadership.
Tanko further urged members to support a candidate capable of strengthening the chapter and advancing the interests of freight forwarders operating within the Apapa port environment.
Presenting his manifesto, Omena Cash pledged to introduce innovative initiatives aimed at addressing the challenges confronting freight forwarders. He promised to strengthen the chapter’s influence within the industry, improve members’ welfare, promote unity among practitioners, and ensure that members operate within the confines of the law without unnecessary harassment or intimidation.
He also assured members of an inclusive administration that would prioritise capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and policies designed to improve the business environment for freight forwarders.
With an impressive turnout of supporters and the presence of prominent NAGAFF leaders, the campaign launch highlighted the strong backing behind Omena Cash’s aspiration and signalled an energetic start to NAGAFF’s 2026 chapter election season.This version is fuller, flows naturally, and gives stronger coverage to both the campaign launch and the endorsements received by Omena Cash.
