..as new President vows to address key challenges, foster Unity
The Domestic Airports Cargo Agents Association (DACAA) is set to celebrate its 21st anniversary alongside the inauguration of its newly elected executive members on April 2, 2025.
The milestone event comes at a crucial time for the association, which continues to grapple with challenges in securing permanent operational space at the airport.
Speaking on the upcoming celebration, DACAA General Secretary, Mr. Ade Ijale, highlighted the significance of the anniversary, describing it as an opportunity for reflection and strategic planning for the future.
The recent elections, which ushered in a new set of executives, were conducted in a transparent and competitive manner, reinforcing the association’s commitment to democratic leadership.
Reflecting on DACAA’s journey since its inception, Mr. Ijale noted that the association has faced numerous hurdles, particularly regarding accommodation within the airport premises.
He recalled that while the airport authority initially allocated space for their operations at the General Aviation Terminal, GAT One, Lagos airport, subsequent infrastructure developments have left them displaced and struggling for a stable location.
“We have been forced to move from one temporary location to another, from Bi-Courtney to our current place, yet a permanent space remains elusive,” he lamented.
He emphasized the vital role DACAA plays in the Nigerian economy, noting that its members are fully registered entities that contribute significantly through taxes and port charges.
“We play a major role in the economy of this country because we are not just operating like quacks, we are all registered companies under DACAA. We contribute, we pay our taxes, we pay our dues to the government, port charges, we pay all of this, but their focus is never on us”.
Despite these contributions, the association continues to face neglect in terms of infrastructural support from the authorities.
“We handle essential cargo, including frozen goods and pharmaceuticals, yet we lack storage facilities and even basic utilities like electricity,” he added.
Mr. Ijale further disclosed that DACAA comprises at least 165 companies, employing approximately 1,500 to 2,000 people, including direct and indirect service providers.
The association facilitates the movement of goods for banks, security agencies, and other key sectors, underscoring its strategic importance to national commerce.
During his tenure as General Secretary, Mr. Ijale played a pivotal role in reconciling factions within the association, strengthening the Board of Trustees, and implementing a more structured approach to governance.
He noted that DACAA has improved its internal security by maintaining a comprehensive database of all operators and personnel within its ecosystem, ensuring accountability and enhanced safety.
According to him, training and capacity building have also been a focus for the association, with regular seminars and workshops organized in collaboration with agencies like the NDLEA and the fire service.
These initiatives aim to educate members on best practices for handling cargo, including hazardous materials.
Looking ahead, the anniversary and inauguration ceremony will serve as a platform to engage with stakeholders, including airport authorities and government agencies, to advocate for better working conditions.
“We need a permanent operational space closer to the tarmac to improve efficiency and safety,” Mr. Ijale stressed.
As DACAA marks this milestone, the association outgoing scribe says, its leadership remains committed to overcoming obstacles and ensuring that domestic cargo operators receive the recognition and support they deserve.
Incoming and newly elected President (DACAA), Mr. Godwin Obasuyi, has expressed his commitment to addressing the association’s challenges in his tenure.
He acknowledged the pressing issues confronting DACAA, including accommodation concerns and individual challenges among members, emphasizing the need for unity and collective effort to strengthen the association.
“We are just coming onboard, and there are several issues we plan to enhance. Some of the challenges include accommodation, as well as individual concerns within the association. We are also looking forward to engaging with heads of various airport agencies who we believe can assist us”.
He reiterated the importance of solidarity among members, noting that internal challenges must be addressed for the association to thrive.
“As individuals within DACAA, we must come together in unity and support one another. There are personal challenges among us, and I won’t shy away from that reality”.
Reflecting on the election process, Obasuyi described it as intense but peaceful. “During the election period, it felt like a war zone, though not with guns or machetes,” he remarked, underscoring the competitive nature of the process.
#dacaa #domestic #cargo #airports #airlines #faan
