AREFFN Installs Francis Obiekezie as Acting President After Rabiu Bala Lawan’s Resignation
Chief Francis Obiekezie
AREFFN Installs Francis Obiekezie as Acting President After Rabiu Bala Lawan’s Resignation
By Mcanthony Onuoha
The Association of Registered Freight Forwarders of Nigeria has ushered in a new phase of leadership. Chief Francis Obiekezie, until recently the National Secretary, has been appointed to serve as Acting President following the exit of Alhaji Rabiu Bala Lawan.
AREFFN announced the development in a statement issued by its Board Secretary, Fwdr. Innocent Daniel Elum, and circulated to the media on Friday. The association said the move was executed strictly in accordance with its Constitution to safeguard continuity in governance.
According to the release, Alhaji Rabiu Bala Lawan resigned from office citing personal reasons. In response, the Board of Trustees met and invoked the constitutional succession clause. Chief Obiekezie was mandated to step in as Acting President for the remainder of the current tenure, effective 6th June 2026.
The association urged all stakeholders to adjust their records accordingly. Members, state chapters, government agencies, terminal operators, and other maritime industry players were directed to route all official communications and engagements to the Acting President through the National Secretariat going forward.
The Board and National Executive Council commended Alhaji Lawan for his contributions while in office. They also expressed confidence that Chief Obiekezie’s experience as former National Secretary positions him well to steer the association through this transition period.
“We count on your cooperation and support as we continue to uphold the standards of our profession and strengthen AREFFN,”
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