Maritime Agencies
Apapa Customs Unveils ECTS To Deepen Trade Facilitation, Boost Revenue And National Security.I
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The practical deployment of the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS) technology in real-time cargo monitoring, the first of its kind, took place Wednesday at the Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service. The ECTS, a digital initiative, is designed to enhance national security, boost revenue generation and facilitate seamless trade across Nigerian ports.
The Apapa Command experiment which was successfully done using a container designated for the Kano/Jigawa Area Command, marked the first practical deployment of the technology in real-time cargo monitoring says the Command’s image maker, Superintendent of Customs Tunde Ayagbalo on behalf of the Controller.
Speaking as the event, the Customs Area Controller, Apapa Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, described the ECTS as a strategic initiative that enables real- time monitoring of cargo movement from the point of departure to the final destination. The system, he explained, uses electronic seals and hand-held devices to track containers, ensuring transparency, preventing tampering, and eliminating diversion of goods in transit.
Comptroller Oshoba noted that Apapa Command is serving as the pilot stage for the nationwide rollout of a technology designed to drastically reduce the need for physical escorts, as customs officers can now monitor cargo movement electronically.
He commended the vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, describing him as a reform-driven administrator who has consistently championed automation and innovation. He highlighted that the ECTS has already been implemented in several countries and as the current Chairperson of the World Customs Organization (WCO), the CGC has ensured that Nigeria adopts similar modern tools to improve its trade environment.
Throwing more light, the Head of B’Odogwu Implementation at Apapa Command , Deputy Comptroller Aondona Christopher Fanyam, explained that before the container reaches Kano Command, it remains sealed and cannot be opened until proper authorisation is confirmed at the destination. He said the ECTS provides three secure methods for unlocking a container: remotely through the central control system, locally via an authorised hand-held device such as a mobile phone used by trained officers, or by using a physical unlocking card designed specifically for use at the destination.
He added that these layered access options are part of the system’s in-built safeguards to prevent unauthorised tampering or diversion during transit. The combination of remote control, hand-held verification and a physical card ensures that only properly authorised personnel can release cargo, reinforcing cargo integrity and strengthening overall security and revenue protection.
The Team Leader of the training unit , Chief Superintendent of Customs , Rosemary Ebele Wenceslas said the service has trained a total of 12 officers participating in the pilot phase of the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS). The team comprises personnel drawn from the Rapid Response Unit of the Federal Operations Unit Zone A Ikeja (FOU) and the Enforcement Team of Apapa Area Command.
The officers, she explained, have undergone intensive training to ensure they are fully prepared to manage and operate the new tracking technology efficiently. All Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to the ECTS have been clearly communicated to them, enabling smooth implementation of the initiative.
CSC Wenceslas noted that with the knowledge and technical capacity they have acquired, the officers are well equipped and ready to deploy the devices effectively, ensuring that the pilot stage achieves its objectives of enhanced cargo monitoring, security, and trade facilitation.
Maritime Agencies
Maritime Industry Bigwigs Pledge to Attend the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) Unity Conference.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
As the Network of Nigeria Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) unveils “Seaport Modernisation, Trade Facilitation and Revenue” as the theme of her unification conference scheduled for November 13 in Lagos , several prominent personalities in Nigeria’s maritime industry and political landscape have indicated interest to attend.
These include the former Minister of Interior, Capt. Emmanuel Iheanacho; Senator Wasiu Eshilokun; former President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Dr. Eugene Nweke; and Dr. Kayode Farinto, former Acting National President of ANLCA.
Also participating are key policymakers, heads of maritime agencies, industry leaders, legal practitioners, freight forwarders and other critical stakeholders whose voices cannot be ignored while deliberating on the future of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Barrister Temisan Omatseye, will chair the conference, while the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, will attend as Special Guest of Honour.
Renowned maritime lawyer, Barrister Emeka Akabogu, SAN, will deliver the keynote address at the event which takes place at Airport Hotel, Ikeja.
Discussions will particularly focus on ongoing reforms, infrastructure development and strategic interventions required to strengthen the maritime industry’s contribution to national economic growth.
According to Elder Dele Aderibigbe and Jerry Aguigbo, the NNMJ President and Public Relations Officer respectively, the conference will provide an avenue for constructive engagement among government representatives, maritime professionals and private-sector operators on practical measures to reposition Nigeria’s maritime industry for improved efficiency, productivity and global competitiveness.
Seaport modernisation, rehabilitation and renewal of critical port infrastructure, trade facilitation, ease of doing business, revenue optimisation and strategies for identifying and eliminating financial leakages across the maritime value chain will form key discussion points at the Unity Conference.
Participants will also examine opportunities for expanding Nigeria’s marine and blue economy, generating employment, strengthening maritime safety and security, and enhancing the competitiveness of the nation’s seaports.
The conference is expected to attract heads of government agencies, managing directors of shipping companies, terminal operators, freight forwarders, licensed customs agents and other influential stakeholders across the maritime industry.
The Unity Conference also avails stakeholders opportunity to evaluate existing government policies and reforms, identify implementation gaps and recommend sustainable solutions to improve port operations, facilitate legitimate trade, increase government revenue and unlock the vast economic potentials of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The organizers further underscored the strategic importance of maritime journalism in promoting transparency and accountability, providing credible industry analysis and sustaining informed public discourse on government policies, regulatory interventions and reforms affecting the marine and blue economy.
The NNMJ leadership expressed confidence that the conference would strengthen relationships among industry stakeholders, encourage meaningful policy engagement and reinforce collective efforts towards building a more efficient, transparent and globally competitive maritime industry.
Maritime Agencies
AMANO Advocates Rapid Growth in Nigeria’s Maritime Sector, Holds National Convention
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
As the 2026 National Convention and Stakeholders’ engagement of the Alumni of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron (AMANO) kicks off November 12 – 14, the
body has called for accelerated reforms and development in Nigeria’s maritime capacity training sector to ensure job creation for graduating cadets.
The convention will bring together maritime professionals, policymakers, regulators and shipowners, academics, cadets and other stakeholders for high-level deliberations on the future of the industry.
Speaking during a pre-event briefing in Lagos, Saturday, AMANO President, Mr. Emmanuel Maiguwa described the conference as a platform for policy alignment, innovation and practical solutions as it is more than a re+union of alumni.
This year’s convention, Maiguwa explained, is deliberately focused on moving from talk to action — with emphasis on reforms that can be implemented in maritime education, shipping, port operations, safety and blue economy development.
The convention will also provide an opportunity to introduce newly graduated cadets of MAN, Oron and their lecturers to maritime companies, institutions and stakeholders thus expanding their exposure to professional and employment opportunities.
Maiguwa had at the Academy’s 2026 Cadets Passing-Out Parade last week, urged graduands to embrace networking, professional development and mentorship as essential tools for building successful careers and invited them to the Lagos convention.
As part of its commitment to excellence, AMANO also announced cash awards of ₦150,000 each for Best HND Graduating Cadet and Best ND Graduating Cadet.
Stakeholders say the 2026 convention is coming at a critical time when Nigeria is pushing to unlock its blue economy, modernise its ports, strengthen its participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and translate maritime policies into measurable results.
The three-day event is expected to feature keynote addresses, panel sessions, technical workshops, exhibitions and networking sessions, with recommendations to be presented to government and industry for implementation.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The Nigeria Association of Women in Journalism (NAWOJ), Lagos Chapter has honoured veteran journalist, Hajia Hadiza Omowole, as Iconic Woman of the month for November.
This is contained in a release in Lagos jointly signed by Mrs Jumoke Falayi-Johnson and Mrs Anu Thomas, NAWOJ Chairperson and Secretary respectively.
Falayi-Johnson described Omowole as a true beacon of excellence, resilience and compassionate leadership, noting her selfless dedication to mentoring young journalists, empowering grassroots women and advocating gender equity..
Omowole’s tenacity, she stated, dedication to service and visionary leadership beautify the world. She described her as Mother-General whose pioneering spirit leaves indelible mark on journalism profession and society generally.
”Omowole holds Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Anthropology from University of Benin and Master’s in Media, Culture and Technology from University of Bedfordshire, UK, spanning over three-decade distinguished journalism career.
”The veteran journalist joined News Agency of Nigeria in 1992, rising steadily through editorial ranks serving as Senior Editor, Deputy Editor-in-Chief and now Managing Editor and Head of Lagos Operations,” Falayi-Johnson said.
She noted that beyond editorial leadership, Omowole served two historic terms as National President of NAWOJ from 2014 to 2020, becoming first president re-elected, championing welfare and advancement of women journalists nationwide.
Through community specialist work, counselling and initiatives supporting rural and needy women, Omowole continues to serve as an inspiring pillar of guidance for the association and media industry.
The entire NAWOJ Lagos family celebrates Omowole’s unwavering commitment, pioneering spirit and incredible service to humanity, collectively wishing her more success in journalism, leadership and humanitarian endeavours ahead.
Omowole remained actively involved in institutional engagement, public communication, youth development and advocacy for health, child development and gender equality across Nigeria.
In her remarks, NAWOJ Lagos Secretary, Mrs Anu Thomas, noted that the association proudly recognised outstanding contributions of Omowole to journalism, women empowerment and leadership development in Nigerian media landscape.
Falayi-Johnson reiterated association’s pride in celebrating Omowole, describing her enduring legacy as an inspiration for upcoming female journalists and a testament to excellence in media leadership nationwide.
Maritime Industry Bigwigs Pledge to Attend the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) Unity Conference.
AMANO Advocates Rapid Growth in Nigeria’s Maritime Sector, Holds National Convention
OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP: NAWOJ Lagos Honours Omowole, NAN’s Managing Editor.
Customs FOU Zone ‘A’ Hits Smugglers Hard, Confiscates 23, 220 Matchettes, Other Contrabands Worth over N6.19bn.
Oyetola, Omatseye, Akabogu, Other Dignitaries To Attend Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists Unity Conference in Lagos.
SCAN SUMMIT, 2026: Conversion to Earn Higher Interest Rates, the Bane of the CVFF, Omatseye says.
Dredgers’ Body Disowns Report Alleging Extortion Against Lagos Commissioner Alebiosu, Cardoso.
2026 World Maritime Day: Nigeria Subscribes to Safer Waterways and Excellence.
NAGAFF President, Chief Ezisi, Visits PTML Customs, Urges Deepened Customs-Freight Forwarders Partnership.
Ogun 1 Customs Hits Smugglers Hard 15 Days into New Leadership, Intercepts N3.15 bn Contrabands.
Lekki Port Customs Confiscates 400kg of Suspected Cannabis Sativa Worth over N2.26bn, Hands over To NDLEA.
MARAN Trains Members at Shipping Institute, Pledges Sustained Capacity Building.
Deputy Comptroller Nkiru Nwala Takes Over C’River, Calabar FTZ and Akwa Ibom Customs Command, Succeeds Comptroller Momodu Dauda.
The Price Of The Byline: When Journalists Cannot Afford To Live
Operation Whirlwind’ Auctions 22,175 Litres of PMS, Deepens Fight Against Petroleum Products Smuggling,
NIGERIA @ 66: AMBO Media Front Pinpoints Signs of a Prosperous Future .
JANUARY-MAY REPORT: Seme Customs Hits N2.6bn, Facilitates ₦35.1bn Exports.
2023 ELECTIONS：CILT Hosts Seminar on Logistics & Electoral Process
HALF YEAR, 2024: Apapa Customs Nets ₦1.024 Trillion, Records 143% Increase.
ABUJA MoU: WE FUNCTION BEHIND A MASK, says Capt Umoren
B’Odogwu: Apapa Customs Collects ₦161b in 3 Weeks, Assures of Improvements .
1. EXECUTIVE PLATFORM. AMES 2024: TIME TO CHANGE GOVERNMENT ATTITUDE TOWARDS SHIPPING DEVELOPMENT IS NOW, AMES President Charges FG.
IMPRESSIVE REVENUE DRIVE: Tincan Customs Generates ₦154.3Bn In October.
PTML Customs Hits Over N350Bn in 9 Months, Intercepts ₦200m Illicit Pharmaceuticals,
B’ODOGWU TRADE PORTAL: Customs Consolidates, Pilots Form ‘M’ Processing.
APFFLON Seeks Immediate Reform of CRFFN, Replacement of Registrar.
OMIS AWARDS, 2022: Greg Ogbeifun, Industry Gurus For Special Recognition.
Adesuwa Ladoja Becomes MD/CEO, Lagos Free Zone.
PHOTO NEWS: Maritime Capacity Development
Information Minister Highlights President Tinubu’s Achievements, says 2025 Is A Year of Consolidation.
Apapa Customs Hits Smugglers Hard After CGC’s Visit, Intercepts ₦3.398 Billion Codeine Syrup In 5 Days.
Photo News: Salah Celebration
-
Maritime Agencies1 week agoOUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP: NAWOJ Lagos Honours Omowole, NAN’s Managing Editor.
-
Maritime Agencies3 weeks ago2026 World Maritime Day: Nigeria Subscribes to Safer Waterways and Excellence.
-
Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoDredgers’ Body Disowns Report Alleging Extortion Against Lagos Commissioner Alebiosu, Cardoso.
-
Maritime Agencies1 week agoCustoms FOU Zone ‘A’ Hits Smugglers Hard, Confiscates 23, 220 Matchettes, Other Contrabands Worth over N6.19bn.
-
Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoOyetola, Omatseye, Akabogu, Other Dignitaries To Attend Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists Unity Conference in Lagos.
-
Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoSCAN SUMMIT, 2026: Conversion to Earn Higher Interest Rates, the Bane of the CVFF, Omatseye says.
-
Maritime Agencies4 days agoAMANO Advocates Rapid Growth in Nigeria’s Maritime Sector, Holds National Convention
-
Maritime Agencies4 days ago
Maritime Industry Bigwigs Pledge to Attend the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) Unity Conference.