Maritime Agencies
ANLCA NECOM: No Non- Licensed Company Owner Can Be Acting NECOM Member.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
As current efforts are in top gear to resolve the lingering crisis in the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), four chieftains appointed by the alleged self- acclaimed registered BOT Chairman, Alhaji Taiwo Mustapha, cannot fly as it has been revealed that their licenses are not registered as required by the Association Constitution.
They are Pius Ujubuonu, Adeyinka Jamiu Ishola, Waheed Badmus and Francis Ozemede Itua who Taiwo Mustapha appointed Acting National President, Vice President, Financial Secretary and National Publicity Secretary respectively.
In a release made available to Falcon Watch Online, the ANLCA National Secretary, Alhaji Babatunde Mukaila maintains that as long as the gentlemen are non-licensed members of ANLCA, their appointment on acting capacity by anybody stands disclaimed and cannot stand as it runs counter to the prescriptions of the Constitution of the Association.
As Mukaila stated during a recent exclusive interview reported in the press release, the four persons Taiwo Mustapha appointed on acting capacity have no licenses. Mustapha who claims to be a leader in ANLCA, he argued, should have known the Association’s Constitution if he did not do what he did to simply cause confusion.
“The Constitution of ANLCA, Section 4 under membership stipulates that membership of the Association shall be limited to corporate bodies incorporated under the CAMA 1990 as amended 2020. So, all our AGMs are expected to be governed by general members, those companies who are corporate members of ANLCA. It is just the company owners that should come forward and participate in the AGM. Representatives of these companies ought to be Directors who must have had at least 10% of shareholding of those companies at least five years running and whose membership status must be as well five years with ANLCA.
On any other requirements for members desirous to attend an AGM, he referred to Section 4 of the Constitution on membership.
“For that purpose, a member shall make application in writing to the ANLCA Headquarters through his Chapter within his area of operation via Executive or Committee set-up shall recommend the applicant to the NECOM. The applicant is then deemed a fit and proper person to be admitted as a member.”
He said payment of an annual dues of N10,000 and possession of a valid license as well as being up-to-date in financial commitment qualify a member to attend an AGM. Therefore, he wondered, it is difficult to decipher whatever else the aggrieved faction is asking for because as an ANLCA member, attending an AGM is automatic as a company director with valid license and dues paid up-to-date. For anybody raising an eyebrow, he stated, it is either he does not have a license or is not financially up-to-date.
As the National Secretary and custodian of ANLCA’s data and documents, he told non-licensed members of the aggrieved faction appointed acting members of the NECOM that in a crisis situation all over the world, the first casualty is truth. ANLCA is not exempted.
“There have been a lot of falsehood and fake news. To put it straight, I believe ANLCA members who have served at the highest level should know better and be conversant with the Constitution.”
He recalled when Mustapha broke into the National Secretariat to say he had appointed an interim NECOM.
“The ANLCA Constitution is very clear under Section 4 that membership shall be limited to corporate companies notwithstanding Subsection 1. Under Section 2, it went further to say that no company or firm should be registered as member if Section 4 , Subsection 2a does not do business in shipping and freight forwarding and if not licensed by the Nigeria Customs. He described as mischief or lack of knowledge as factors that prompted Taiwo Mustapha to violate ANLCA Constitution by appointing people who do not have corporate licenses from Customs to positions at the national level.
Referring to 24th August, 2022, when Taiwo Mustapha made what he called the grievous mistake that caused the present confusion everybody is suffering from, Pius Ujubuonu was appointed Acting National President or Interim President.
“I want to let you know that in 2012 when the data protocol of ANLCA was being perfected as it was then, I was the ASECO Chairman. Pius Ujubuonu came to
me to present a license of a corporate company called MIRACLE VENTURES LTD. That license as at the year the data was being processed in 2013 did not exist. Pius Ujubuonu, with ID Card No WZ5100000083, the company did not exist!. So, in the last ten years, Pius Ujubuonu did not have a license.
On the list of Tincan Island ANLCA corporate members, he also explained, there is a company called DEJIDE INVESTMENT COMPANY LTD.
“The company had a gentleman called Jide as director and principal officer who employed one Adeyinka Jamiu Ishola, staff ID Card No WZ2300000285. Four years ago, Mr Jide passed away and the license has remained moribund since then. This is the same person Taiwo Mustapha appointed Acting National President of ANLCA.”
“He did not stop at that! Just to cause more confusion in ANLCA, he went further to appoint another person the Acting National Financial Secretary. The gentleman is a clerk in a company called OMO-BOY INTERNATIONAL, a company whose Director is one late Alabi. Taiwo Mustapha appointed Gbadamosi Waheed Badmus as Acting Financial Secretary of ANLCA. That makes them three.
He said that another imposter was Francis Ozemede Itua who was appointed Acting Publicity Secretary of ANLCA.
“Francis Itua is just a clerk with SEVEN 86 IMPEX & ALLIED LTD, a company that has all directors as Indians. So, for Francis Itua to be issuing statements, calling himself the Acting NPS of ANLCA is not only dangerous but criminal, full of mischief. He has to be disclaimed so that the general public will know”.
On the AGM being planned, the National Secretary said it was necessary to bend backwards and move forward because ANLCA needs breath.
“All registered corporate members of ANLCA should come forward and register for the AGM. It is the right of corporate members of ANLCA,” Alhaji Mukaila pointed out.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
In the ongoing efforts to thwart economic sabotage in the Niger Delta, Tantita Security Services Ltd, the firm engaged in pipeline surveillance operations in the oil -rich region, has nabbed four suspected oil thieves, intercepting their vessel named MT Thor. Suspects are to undergo trial for economic sabotage .
Speaking at the handover of the suspects at Koko Port, Tantita’s Executive Director of Operations, Capt Warredi Enisouh, said the suspects were apprehended with an unspecified quantity of suspected illegally-sourced petroleum products aboard the vessel.
The interception occurred on 15 December 2025, around the Koko–Excravos axis of Delta State, says a situation report made available by the Special Prosecution Team (SPT) of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Petroleum Product Theft.
The report stated that Tantita alerted the Head of Investigation of the SPT after intercepting MT Thor, allegedly laden with crude oil obtained through illicit means.
It was further alleged that the vessel was being escorted by personnel of the Police Marine Unit, Delta State, who reportedly claimed they were acting on directives from the Force Intelligence Department (FID), Abuja.
Preliminary investigations by law enforcement agencies revealed that the vessel, now classified as an exhibit in an ongoing criminal investigation, is linked to a jetty operated by Ebenco Global Services Limited. Investigation officers disclosed that documents and correspondence connected to the jetty were obtained and are currently under review.
“The owner of the jetty, Mr. Ebenezer, was contacted by investigators and reportedly provided additional documents, including court orders, which are also being analysed as part of the investigation.
“On December 16, a joint investigation team led by the Head of Investigation of the SPT conducted a Joint Inspection Visit in Koko. The team first met at Tantita’s corporate headquarters in Warri for a briefing, which was also attended by the jetty owner.
“During the inspection, investigators attempted to obtain samples from MT Thor but were unable to do so immediately as the vessel had not yet arrived at the jetty, having been towed from an earlier location by security operatives.
“While awaiting the vessel’s arrival, the team inspected other containers suspected to be carrying crude oil within the premises of Ebenco Global Links Limited, where samples were taken from a storage barge.
“MT Thor eventually berthed at about 8:30 p.m. on 16 December, prompting the joint team to adjourn sampling and other procedures until the following day. As of 17 December 2025, investigators were reported to be en route to Koko to continue sample collection and complete investigation formalities,” the report read.
Receiving the suspects, the Head of the Special Prosecution Team of the Inter-Agency Task Force, Omar Sini, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to dismantle crude oil theft networks in the Niger Delta, assuring that all findings would be thoroughly examined and prosecuted in line with the law.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Seven days to the end of 2025, the Tincan Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has comfortably met her revenue target for the year, exceeding same by over N51.8 billion.
The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka who stated this in Lagos, Wednesday, announced that the Command generated a total of ₦1.576 trillion in revenue, surpassing its assigned target of ₦1.524 trillion by about ₦51.84 billion.
The performance which he described as remarkable came about following the decision of his officers and men to be on the path of discipline, professionalism and unwavering commitment to trade rules and regulations.
Other enhancers of the achievement, he explained, included the strict implementation of deliberate reforms, improved operational efficiency and a strong sense of collective responsibility.
He said that major contributors to the increased revenue in the year included bulk cargo, general merchandise and imported ‘tokunboh’ vehicles. Strict cargo examination procedures and full compliance with customs regulations ensured accurate assessment and collection of expected revenue.
The Command employed conscious efforts to eliminate revenue leakages and operational inefficiency even as multiple and unnecessary alerts were substantially curtailed by adopting a streamlined alert management and enhanced internal coordination.
“This strategy improved operational efficiency without compromising effective customs control”, the CAC disclosed.
Commending the role of stakeholders engagement in the realization of the annual revenue, Onyeka recalled regular interaction with importers, licensed customs agents, terminal operators and shipping companies.
Diligent enforcement coupled with intelligence-driven operations also resulted in massive seizure of prohibited and undeclared goods.
“These seizures reflect our determination to facilitate trade while safeguarding national security, public safety, and economic integrity”, he remarked.
He assured that the Command is ever ready to sustain and improve on the 2025 revenue performance and compliance enforcement. All revenue due to the federal government will be properly assessed, collected and remitted at all times.
The Tin Can Island Port Customs boss expressed appreciation to the Comptroller General of Customs, Dr. Adewale Adeniyi for his strategic leadership and institutional support, noting that the Command’s success aligns with the Service’s ongoing reform and modernisation agenda.
He also commended stakeholders for their cooperation and commitment to improved compliance and adherence to extant rules.
“As we progress, the Command remains focused on consolidating these gains, deepening transparency, and contributing meaningfully to the federal government’s fiscal objectives”, Onyeka stated.
Customs
NSC Boss, Akutah, Speaks At Maritime Journalists’ Seminar, Harps on Developing Trends the Press Cannot Overlook.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
It has been canvassed that as the maritime industry grows in complexity, driven by digitalization, new trade realities, regulatory reforms and global logistic shifts, journalism practice within the space should toe the same line.
Dr Pius Ukeyima Akutah, the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) stated this in a keynote address he delivered in Lagos, Thursday, during the 10th Anniversary Annual Seminar for Maritime Journalists hosted by First Mediacon Network Ltd, publishers of Shipping Position Daily.
Acknowledging that the Nigerian Shippers’ Council has benefitted immensely from the sustained and professional coverage offered by the maritime press, more collaborative efforts is needed to enhance efficiency and competitiveness in the port environment. He was represented by the agency’s Director of Special Duties, Mr Moses Abere.
”This decade-long journey affirms a simple truth: no maritime sector can advance without a strong, knowledgeable and committed media community.” Akutah added.
Strengthening maritime journalism for the future, he noted, requires technical accuracy, understanding of global practices and an appreciation of regulatory frameworks.
The journalist should also be equipped to interrogate data, utilize digital tools and apply emerging technologies such as Al in research, storytelling and analysis.
He added that in a sensitive sector such as maritime, misinformation can undermine policy, investor confidence and national economic stability.
”At the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, we remain committed to open communication and structured engagement with the media to enhance mutual understanding and sectoral development.”
Akutah assured that the NSC would continue to partner with the press through knowledge-sharing, capacity-building collaborations and joint initiatives that support a more informed and capable maritime media landscape.
”As the Port Economic Regulator, the Nigerian Shippers’ Council remains committed to promoting efficiency, transparency and competitiveness within the maritime sector.”
”We consider the media as essential partners in informing stakeholders, shaping public understanding and strengthening accountability.”
”We will continue to support credible and responsible maritime journalism and are open to meaningful engagements that enhance professionalism and knowledge within the press community.”
Dr Akabogu (left) presenting a souvenir to Dr Maiwada, National PRO, Nigeria Customs Service.
As the press celebrates
a 10-year milestone, Akutah advised, there should be a commitment to build a stronger future, one defined by accurate information, robust collaboration and shared progress.
Unveiling the Centre for Maritime Media & Capacity Development at the event, Mr Sesan Onileimo, CEO First Mediacon Network Ltd stressed the need to future-proof maritime reporting in Nigeria. The new Centre, he said, was created to respond to rapid changes reshaping journalism and the maritime sector.
“The maritime media space is evolving rapidly under the pressure of digitalisation, artificial intelligence and social media. This Centre is our bold response to ensure journalists remain knowledgeable, relevant and impactful, regardless of how long they have been on the beat,” Onileimo explained.
The Centre, he added, would not only take over the organisation of the annual seminar but would also deliver continuous, year-round manpower development programmes for maritime journalists and content creators.
“What we are doing is moving from an annual event to a permanent structure for capacity development. The Centre is also open to partnerships with industry stakeholders who share our vision of a stronger and more professional maritime media,” Onileimo added.
Dignitaries at the event included Mr Babandede, ACG Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service accompanied by the National Public Relations Officer, Dr Aliyu Maiwada, notable maritime lawyer Dr Emeka Akabogu (SAN) and Dr Kayode Farinto, former Acting National President of ANLCA.
NIGER DELTA SECURITY : Tantita Arrests 4 Oil Thieves, Nabs Vessel .
Tincan Customs Achieves N51.8Bn Surplus Above 2025 Revenue Target
NSC Boss, Akutah, Speaks At Maritime Journalists’ Seminar, Harps on Developing Trends the Press Cannot Overlook.
NIGERIA’S IMO FEAT: NIMASA Hails Media Contributions, Seeks Support For Sustained Momentum.
OGUN 1 CUSTOMS: No Hiding Place for Smugglers, D.C.Afeni Pledges, Confiscates Exotic Cars, 2bn Worth of Contrabands in 11 Days.
Lekki Deepsea Port Set to Achieve Full Capacity Before Expectations, Deepens Barge Operations, among others.
FIGHT AGAINST FINANCIAL CRIMES: MMIA CAC Makes Huge Haul of Foreign Currencies, Hands Over To EFCC
WIKE AT 62: TSSL Celebrates Courage, Conviction and Unwavering Sense of Duty.
MARITIME SEMINAR FOR JUDGES: Group Urges Probe of Shippers’ Council Funds.
Industry Gurus Head To Badagry As BACCIMA, Portbizness Discuss Trans-Border International Trade.
OGUN 1 CUSTOMS: DC Oladapo Afeni Pledges Stronger Trade Facilitation, Border Security As He Becomes Acting CAC.
Shippers’ Council Boss, Akutah, Advocates Stronger Alternative Disputes Resolution, Bags Special Honours from NBA
MMA Customs Command Hits 100.1% of Annual Revenue Target 11 Months Before Year-End.
MARAN Dissolves Exco, Appoints An Interim Leadership.
ILLEGAL WILDLIFE TRAFFICKING: Seme Border Customs Nabs Traffickers of Lion Cubs, Patas Monkeys.
Oyetola, Iheanacho, To Lead Maritime Stakeholders To Launch MARAN’s New Book
APFFLON Seeks Immediate Reform of CRFFN, Replacement of Registrar.
1. EXECUTIVE PLATFORM. AMES 2024: TIME TO CHANGE GOVERNMENT ATTITUDE TOWARDS SHIPPING DEVELOPMENT IS NOW, AMES President Charges FG.
2023 ELECTIONS：CILT Hosts Seminar on Logistics & Electoral Process
OMIS AWARDS, 2022: Greg Ogbeifun, Industry Gurus For Special Recognition.
FG Set To Re-establish National Shipping Line, To Take Advantage of $10 bn Annual Ship Charter Market.
B’ODOGWU TRADE PORTAL: Customs Consolidates, Pilots Form ‘M’ Processing.
INLAND WATERWAYS OFFERS NIGERIA ALTERNATIVE REVENUE SOURCE, Says Sambo
MAN, ORON: It’s Encomiums Galore From International Seabed Authority (ISA).
Photo News: Salah Celebration
WAR AGAINST OIL THEFT: Tompolo’s Company Nabs VLCC Laden With Crude Oil
PHOTO NEWS: Maritime Capacity Development
Lilypond Export Command Is Meeting Expectations, Handles 70% of Nigeria’s Total Tonnage of Export Cargo, says CAC Odusanya.
Sylvanus Ekpo, ex-Editor, Shipping World Magazine, loses Mum
BENIN SEAPORT UPDATE: Edo State Government, Host Communities, Conduct Bidders To Inspect Project Site.
SIFAX GROUP: Ojeniyi Becomes Sky Capital GMD, Omajuwa Strategy Director.
MAN, Oron, Kick-starts Simulator-based Training, Commends FG, NIMASA.
-
Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoIndustry Gurus Head To Badagry As BACCIMA, Portbizness Discuss Trans-Border International Trade.
-
Maritime Agencies1 week agoFIGHT AGAINST FINANCIAL CRIMES: MMIA CAC Makes Huge Haul of Foreign Currencies, Hands Over To EFCC
-
Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoMARITIME SEMINAR FOR JUDGES: Group Urges Probe of Shippers’ Council Funds.
-
Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoOGUN 1 CUSTOMS: DC Oladapo Afeni Pledges Stronger Trade Facilitation, Border Security As He Becomes Acting CAC.
-
Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoWIKE AT 62: TSSL Celebrates Courage, Conviction and Unwavering Sense of Duty.
-
Maritime Agencies1 week agoLekki Deepsea Port Set to Achieve Full Capacity Before Expectations, Deepens Barge Operations, among others.
-
Maritime Agencies1 week agoOGUN 1 CUSTOMS: No Hiding Place for Smugglers, D.C.Afeni Pledges, Confiscates Exotic Cars, 2bn Worth of Contrabands in 11 Days.
-
Maritime Agencies1 week agoNIGERIA’S IMO FEAT: NIMASA Hails Media Contributions, Seeks Support For Sustained Momentum.