NAGAFF and Nigeria Customs Partner to promote stress management for Freight Forwarders in Onne

The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) has announced a partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service Area II Command Onne to mitigate stress among freight forwarders in Onne, Rivers State.

During a sensitization campaign on stress management in the maritime industry, held at Onne, NAGAFF Chapter Chairman for Onne Seaport, Forwarder Ike Okechukwu Ernest, shared that the pressures his colleagues face daily motivated him to raise awareness on managing stress in the maritime sector.

He expressed sadness over the recent passing of a NAGAFF member, who passed away after a day’s work, reportedly crying out about heart pain. This loss, Ernest said, emphasized the need for members to take their health seriously. As a firm believer in "health is wealth," Ernest committed to ensuring the well-being of his members.

He mentioned that this initial campaign is a pilot effort, with plans to expand future events by inviting psychologists and medical practitioners. Ernest also praised the Onne Customs Command and Comptroller Mohammed Babandede for their support in providing medical staff for the program. He encouraged freight forwarders to take advantage of the health screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels to help prevent severe health issues.

Inspired by the NAGAFF founder, Chief Dr. Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam, and other NAGAFF leaders, Ernest expressed his goal to promote this program widely, attracting key figures in the freight forwarding industry.

Health Experts Emphasize Stress Management

Dr. (Mrs.) T.R. Omarijvwie, the program’s resource person, commended NAGAFF for the initiative, highlighting the importance of regular medical check-ups for freight forwarders. She noted that stress is a universal experience, beginning from birth and persisting throughout life. Although stress is inevitable, Dr. Omarijvwie advised that it can be managed effectively to avoid negative impacts on vital organs like the kidneys, liver, and heart.

She identified various causes of stress, such as daily hassles, trauma, relocation, loss, financial strain, and family matters. Physical symptoms of stress, she noted, may include sweating, increased heart rate, dry mouth, and feelings of anxiety or depression. Stress-related behaviors, like smoking, excessive drinking, and drug abuse, can also arise.

To manage stress, Dr. Omarijvwie suggested techniques such as avoiding or altering stressors, adapting to them, and incorporating laughter into daily life, which she described as therapeutic. Additional strategies include practicing relaxation techniques, engaging in hobbies, talking to others, and staying positive.

She emphasized maintaining a daily routine, getting quality sleep, eating well, keeping healthy relationships, exercising, limiting news consumption, and scheduling regular medical check-ups as essential factors for stress management.

“Stress management is life management,” she concluded.

Positive Feedback from Participants
Participants expressed appreciation to the Onne Customs Area II Command and NAGAFF officials, requesting that the program be continued regularly. The event concluded with health screenings for blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol, marking the high point of the program.