Maritime Agencies
Oyetola Opens LIMWEEK 2024, Harps On Port Efficiency and Safety
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy Minister, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola says in the maritime world, port efficiency and safety are critical components that can never be overlooked while discussing economic growth, trade and investment.
The Minister stated this in Lagos, Tuesday, while declaring open the 2024 edition of the Lagos International Maritime Week (LIMWEEK) and the Business To-Business Conference and Exhibition with the theme ‘Navigating the Future of Africa’s Marine & Blue Economy – Safety First.’
Improvement in safety and ports efficiency, he explained, top the chart on the responsibilities President Bola Tinubu handed to him to achieve as Minister.
The Minister, who was represented by Mr Chinedu Mbam, Legal Director in the Ministry, added that government was fully committed to drive the modernisation and improvement of the ports and maritime infrastructure.
By upgrading the nation’s ports to global standards, he noted, Nigeria will position herself to become a leader in international maritime trade since ports serve as gateway to prosperity.
“We understand that port efficiency and safety are not options; they are imperatives for unlocking the full potential of the blue economy. This is significant because safety remains the cornerstone upon which all maritime operations and business success rest.”
Through key safety initiatives such as the Deep Blue Project, he explained, Nigeria and, indeed the Gulf of Guinea, have achieved reasonable reduction in maritime crimes such as piracy, sea robbery and smuggling.
Mrs Sofiye Uzor (Centre) receiving the Award on behalf of Engr Greg Ogbeifun.
In his contribution, the Lagos Star Commissioner of Police acknowledged his responsibility to secure the maritime domain, including the intricate inland waterways crucial to Nigeria’s economy and Africa’s broader maritime sector. “The Gulf of Guinea, as many of us are aware of, is both a region rich in resources and a key artery for global maritime trade also faces persistent security challenges. The Nigeria Police, through its Maritime Command, has played a pivotal role in securing our maritime domain. Our mandate extends beyond merely patrolling the waterways. We work hand-in-hand with other national and international agencies to protect vital assets, combat piracy and ensure that our marine environment is safe and secure for all stakeholders.”
The Police boss who spoke through Chief Superintendent of Police Segun Falemara said as a matter of routine, the Police collaborates with NIMASA and other critical stakeholders in joint operations to reduce maritime crimes.
“The Marine Police deploys advanced surveillance techniques, leveraging human intelligence and technological solutions to monitor criminal activities along the waterways.”
“Through regional and international partnerships, we ensure our officers are well trained to address emerging maritime threats and security challenges.”
To achieve reasonable security in the Gulf of Guinea, he suggested a coordinated effort from the component littoral states and international partners.
Nigeria, he recalled, has been at the forefront of fostering regional collaboration to ensure a safer maritime environment.
“Some of these include the AGWE Project and the SWAIM SAR Project.” The AGWE Project anchored by the Interpol is a collaborative programme of five West African states aim at training, mentoring and providing equipment for boosting maritime security while SWAIM (Support to West African Integrated Maritime Security) have enhanced the search-and- rescue capabilities in the Gulf of Guinea.
“These initiatives have improved the region’s ability to swiftly respond to maritime emergencies and criminal activities, fostering safety on our waters”. He explained that the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has been invaluable in supporting Nigeria’s efforts to combat piracy and armed robbery at sea.
“Through UNODC, the Danish government has funded training programmes that have equipped our offices with Visit, Board, Search and Seizures (VIBSS) procedures in conjunction with the Nigerian Navy to combat illegal activities at sea.
On the proliferation of dangerous materials, he said that partnering with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the US International Counter-proliferation Programme, Nigeria has worked to prevent the smuggling of hazardous materials and weapons of mass destruction into the Gulf of Guinea. This is a critical step towards ensuring that the blue economy is not compromised by illicit activities that would have devastating environmental and security consequences.
The Suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offences Act, 2019, he said, has significantly strengthened Nigeria’s legal framework for tackling piracy and other maritime crimes. “It aligns our national laws with international frameworks and provide the necessary legal backing for prosecuting offenders in Nigeria.”
Through the Harmonized
Standard Operating Procedures (HSOPs), efforts are on to ensure that regional maritime security agencies adhere to harmonized SOPs, ensuring a “legal finish” in prosecuting maritime offenders.
Nigeria participates actively in national and regional maritime security conferences such as the Yaounde Architecture for Maritime Security which facilitates coordination between West and Central African states. Mentoring programmes including training supported by international partners such as the US and European Union have played a key role in improving Nigeria’s operational capabilities. “The Nigeria Police also contributes to the 2050 Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy (2050 AIM Strategy), comprehensive, concerted, coherent and coordinated approach that improve maritime conditions with respect to environmental and socio-economic development as well as the capacity to generate wealth from sustainable governance of Africa’s blue economy.”
The Police boss assured Nigeria’s commitment to the development of her blue economy through fostering safety and security across her maritime domain.
In his intervention from the perspective of the British Royal Navy, Commander Daniel Waskett, SO2 Marine, disclosed the UK strategy which is to establish long-term and mutually-beneficial partnerships with African nations to build on shared interests for safer, healthier and more prosperous future for all. However, like many nations committed to ensuring a free, secure global common maintenance of international rules-based order and supporting democracy, he stated, the UK is experiencing a time of increased operational demand the Royal Navy is deploying globally at a scale unprecedented for many years.
“Destroyers and Frigates are protecting shipping in the Red Sea to ensure trade can continue freely.”
Highlight of the event, among others, was the conferment of a lifetime achievement award on Engr Greg Ogbeifun, Chairman, Starzs Marine and Engineering Co Ltd.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The retired Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Effiong Harrison has described the posting of his successor, Comptroller Chidi Chukwumeziri Nwokorie from the Kebbi Area Customs Command as a welcome development, praising his background and experience as assets the Command stands to gain from.
Retired Comptroller Effiong Harrison spoke in Lagos, Wednesday, September 10, while handing over the leadership of the MMIA Command to Comptroller Chidi Chukwumeziri Nwokorie, following his disengagement after 35 years of meritorious service.
In his valedictory remarks, Harrison expressed gratitude to officers and men of the command for their dedication and professionalism during his tenure.
“I want to express my appreciation to all of you from different units and to all of the services that we have rendered to the government and ourselves as members of the Nigeria Customs Service. In our time, we had no incident or trouble that warranted somebody being dismissed or interdicted. We leveraged on intelligence and worked in the best possible way, day and night”, he said.
“When I heard that the new Customs Area Controller (Nwokorie) is coming from Kebbi, I felt highly elated, that at least we have somebody who will have the national security consciousness at the back of his mind. I am confident that, from your experiences in other sectors and the service you have rendered to your country, you will be able to take us to the next level”, he noted.
He urged officers to extend their loyalty and support to the new Customs Area Controller to sustain the progress achieved at the command.
In his response, Comptroller Nwokorie thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the MMIA Command.
“I want to thank the Almighty God for a special day like this. I also thank the CGC, Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for finding me worthy to come and represent him here. While sitting here, there’s no way I’ll know everything that’s happening. You, the officers on the field, are my eyes. I strongly believe that we will all work together in peace and harmony”, he stated.
The new Customs Area Controller assured officers he would adopt an open-door policy and inclusive leadership style. He pledged to work as a team player in driving the Command’s performance and contributions to national revenue, security and trade facilitation.
Maritime Agencies
LEKKI FREE TRADE ZONE CUSTOMS: Comptroller Abubakar Decorates Promoted Officers, Stresses Hard Work, Dedication to Duty.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
In furtherance of her commitment to hard work, dedication and promotion of the spirit of service which are special attributes that define operations in the Nigeria Customs Service, the Lekki Free Trade Zone (LFTZ) Command, Wednesday, decorated officers who benefitted from the recent staff promotions nationwide.
Speaking during the event, the LFTZ Customs Area Controller, Comptroller (Mrs) HKA Abubakar announced that a total of 29 officers and men were favoured in the promotions.
”I am pleased to inform you that a total of twenty-nine (29) officers and men of the Command have been promoted as follows:
Deputy Controller (DC) to Controller (CC) – 2, Assistant Controller (AC) to Deputy Controller (DC) – 6, Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) to Assistant Controller (AC) – 5 and Superintendent of Customs (SC) to Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) – 7.”
”Deputy Superintendent of Customs (DSC) to Superintendent of Customs (SC) – 2, Assistant Superintendent of Customs I (ASC I) to Deputy Superintendent of Customs (DSC) – 2, Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASC II) to Assistant Superintendent of Customs I (ASC I) – 2, Inspector of Customs (IC) to Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASC II) – 2 and Assistant Inspector of Customs (AIC) to Inspector of Customs (IC) – 1″.
According to Comptroller Abubakar, promotion in the Service is not given lightly but earned through commitment, discipline and the consistent demonstration of capacity and integrity in the discharge of duty.
”For those we are decorating today,”she added, “this recognition is a testament to your perseverance, loyalty, and invaluable contributions to the growth and success of this Command and the Service at large.”
She reminded the celebrants and other officers that promotion to higher ranks come with greater responsibilities.
” Promotion is not only a reward but also a call to higher expectations. You are now positioned to serve as role models, to inspire your subordinates, and to raise the standard of professionalism, discipline and efficiency within our Command.”
”The Lagos Free Trade Zone Command has continued to play a strategic role in revenue generation, trade facilitation and enforcement of Customs laws. Our collective progress is made possible by the unwavering commitment of officers like those we honour today. It is my firm belief that this promotion will further energize you to contribute more diligently to our common objectives of improved revenue, compliance in Free Zones and the Port, as well as stronger stakeholder engagement.”
She enjoined officers not favoured in the promotion not to despair but to continue to demonstrate resilience and loyalty to duty.
”Be assured that your efforts are recognized, and in due time, your turn will surely come. The Service remains fair and just in rewarding hard work.”
Appreciating sister agencies who honoured the Command’s invitation to the decoration event, she said their attendance, solidarity and collaboration remain invaluable in the discharge of the Command’s collective responsibilities.
”Your support not only strengthens inter-agency synergy but also reinforces the spirit of partnership needed to enhance national security, trade facilitation and revenue generation. On behalf of the Command, we thank you sincerely for joining us on this special occasion and for your continued cooperation in service to our nation.”
For the newly decorated officers and their families, she stated that the promotion serves as a source of renewed strength, motivation, and commitment.
”I urge you all to continue to give your best, uphold the values of the Service, and justify the confidence reposed in you,” Comptroller Abubakar concluded.
Maritime Agencies
PTML CUSTOMS: Comptroller Joe Anani Takes Over from ACG Daniyan, Harps on Improved Compliance.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Comptroller Joe Anani, the new Customs Area Controller of the PTML Command of the Nigeria Customs Service says the successful roll-out and subsequent revenue collection and trade facilitation achievements associated with the B’Odogwu, the Unified Customs Management System, remains a great milestone that must be improved upon.
He has, therefore, implored all customs officers, sister government agencies and private sector stakeholders to join hands with him in the journey to keep the great records of Ports Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) high.
He particularly appealed to stakeholders to always stick to compliance because they stand to benefit more from being on the right side of the law at all times.
Comptroller Anani stated this in Lagos, Friday, while taking over the mantle of leadership from the immediate-past Controller, ACG Tenny Daniyan, at a brief but colourful ceremony marking the change of guards. Describing the Command and stakeholders as well organised, he promised to build on the various pioneering feats recorded by his predecessor. He enjoined everyone to feel free to interact with him either directly through visits or virtually.
“While thanking God and the CGC, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for the opportunity to serve here, let me state that our journey to succeed must remain a collective task. I am not here to do it alone.”
”I hereby call on all customs officers, sister government agencies, private sector stakeholders and the press to support me in our goal to sustain PTML as a model port of excellence, known for security, efficiency and diligent trade facilitation”.
”I pledge to build and improve on the gains achieved by my predecessors in the area of faster cargo clearance which aligns with Time Release Study (TRS) programme.
”I am aware that this Command holds an outstanding record of two hour cargo release time for compliant RoRo consignment. The key word here is compliance. With improved compliance and efficient system, we can do less than two hours”.
Compliance, he recalled, is the key to trade facilitation. It is critical for smooth port operations and ensures adherence to regulations, reduces delays, mitigates risks and fosters trust among trading partners.
”Compliance minimises bottlenecks and enhances efficiency in global trade and PTML cannot be an exception.”
” I want to urge all our stakeholders to imbibe the tenets of compliance because it results in a win-win situation for everyone, saving time and money. Whereas non compliance leads to interventions, issuance of demand notices, waste of time and possible seizure , detention and arrest. Let’s continue to make this area a great example that it has always been.
He promised full enforcement of the CGC’s directive on zero tolerance for smuggling even as he acknowledged that stakeholders are already on the right track.
Welcoming Comptroller Anani, stakeholders who turned out in their numbers commended ACG Daniyan for his outstanding performance in seeing to the success of B’Odogwu from its pilot phase to full deployment across various commands nationwide. They described the ACG’s leadership as outstanding with trail blazing effects on increased trade, revenue ,anti smuggling and robust interaction with stakeholders.
The President of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON) Otunba Frank Ogunojemite described Daniyan as a man whose records speak volumes positively. He urged ACG Daniyan to carry his working zeal ahead into NCS management team.
Chairman of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents, PTML Chapter, Chief Charles Nwarrienne described Daniyan as an excellent officer deserving to be issued a “certificate of project completion” for diligently achieving the success of B’Odogwu from beginning to a state of consolidation.
MMIA CUSTOMS COMMAND: Comptroller Harrison Passes Baton to Comptroller Nwokorie
LEKKI FREE TRADE ZONE CUSTOMS: Comptroller Abubakar Decorates Promoted Officers, Stresses Hard Work, Dedication to Duty.
PTML CUSTOMS: Comptroller Joe Anani Takes Over from ACG Daniyan, Harps on Improved Compliance.
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