The Nigeria Postal Service (NIPOST) took decisive action over the weekend, sealing off multiple unregistered courier and logistic firms operating in Edo State. In addition, the agency impounded eight delivery motorcycles during the clamp down.
Shonde Gideon, the NIPOST General Manager of the Courier, Logistic, and Regulatory Department, emphasized that the operation aimed to eliminate quacks and unscrupulous operators engaging in unethical practices. He highlighted the prevalence of unlicensed and illegal courier services, undercutting prices, pilfering, and loss of customers’ items as some of the issues plaguing the industry.
Gideon stressed that operating without a license is not only unethical but also illegal, in violation of Section 43(1, 2, and 3) of the NIPOST ACT, Cap127, LFN 2004, and Regulatory Operational Guide 2023.
As part of the clamp down, private investors were reminded to obtain a license from the federal government before engaging in postal, courier, and logistic businesses.
“The operation’s overarching objective is to promote ethical standards within the postal sector and crackdown on illegal activities.” He added.
Gideon cited instances of operators carrying prohibited items such as drugs and firearms, contributing to economic leakage and tax evasion. He emphasized that the NIPOST operation aimed to create a fair playing field while ensuring compliance with the law.
Courier operators in Edo State were urged to obtain operating licenses to avoid legal repercussions.
The enforcement team from the Courier and Logistics Regulatory Department, in collaboration with the Force Criminal Investigation Department and Edo State Police Command, carried out the operation.
