Maritime Agencies
CGC Hails Inter-Agency Collaboration, Hands Over Pistols, Cocaine, Colorado, etc at Tincan Port Command.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
That the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) continues to beat smugglers to their game by apprehending them and their illicit importations reflects the stern determination of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and other security agencies to cooperate as one body to secure Nigeria.
This collaborative synergy exemplifies the effectiveness of pooling resources and intelligence, reinforcing the commitment of all agencies to safeguarding the nation’s borders and protect the citizens from the threats posed by illegal substances.
Comptroller- General, Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, said this in Lagos, Thursday, while celebrating the beauty of inter-agency collaboration and its contribution to the achievement of the agency’s core mandate.
Venue was the Tincan Island Port Command in Lagos during the handing-over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) 56.39kg of Cocaine valued at N2,368,380,000 and 955kg of Colorado Indica valued at N1,911,400,000, all with a street value of N4.279 billion.
Included in the seizures also are 5 pistols, 445 rounds of live ammunition, and several empty pistol magazines.
CGC Adeniyi restated the importance of inter-agency synergy in the fight against illicit substances and national security.
“The handing over of seized illicit drugs in the custody of the Nigeria Customs Service is a development that speaks volumes about the hard work and diligence of security agencies tasked with securing the territory of our country”, he said.
Since criminals and other social deviants now find strength in collaboration, he reasoned, government agencies must equally appreciate the advantages of working collectively to fulfill their statutory responsibilities.
“It is within this context that the ongoing collaborative efforts between the NCS and the Nigeria Drug and Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have consistently yielded positive results”, he declared.
“This collaborative synergy exemplifies the effectiveness of pooling resources and intelligence, reinforcing the commitment of both agencies to safeguard the nation’s borders and protect its citizens from the threats posed by illegal substances.”
The NCS, he explained, has resolved to prioritize strategic partnerships to enhance the capability to fulfill her core mandates.
Recognizing the threats and the collaborative nature of criminal activities, he stated, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has steadfastly prioritized strategic partnerships with stakeholders over the past seven months.
“This deliberate focus aims to harness the specialized expertise of our partners in a manner that enhances our capability to fulfill our core mandates,” he added.
Receiving the items on behalf of the NDLEA Chairman, Brig Gen Marwa (rtd), the agency’s spokesman, Femi Babafemi, commended the CGC for the synergy between the two agencies. He said the collaboration is a strong warning to drug cartels as they will continue to lose their investments in the criminal trade if they do not retrace their steps.
Maritime Agencies
PIPELINES SURVEILLANCE: National Assembly Commends Tantita for Performance, Dismisses Petitions over Contract Award.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
For performing to expectations in the task of protecting Nigeria’s oil assets and boosting crude oil production, Tantita Security Services Limited, Tuesday, earned a vote of confidence from the National Assembly (NASS) even as three petitions challenging the pipeline surveillance contract awarded the company were dismissed.
The endorsement comes as Nigeria’s oil output rises to about 1.8 million barrels per day (mbpd) as of April, up from around 900,000 barrels per day recorded in 2022 when the surveillance contract was introduced.
The NASS resolution followed a motion moved by the Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Midstream), Henry Okojie, during a one-day parliamentary roundtable on pipeline security and efforts to curb crude oil theft.
The joint committees on Petroleum Resources said the surveillance arrangement has significantly reduced pipeline vandalism, curtailed crude oil theft, and increased national revenue. They noted that the initiative has been instrumental in securing critical oil infrastructure, with Tantita and security agencies making measurable progress in safeguarding pipelines and other oil facilities.
Okojie emphasized that the collaboration between private security firms, host communities, and government security agencies has helped dismantle several illegal tapping points, improved production levels, and enhanced the delivery of crude to export terminals.
Speaking at the event, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, stressed the need for sustained efforts to secure Nigeria’s oil sector amid growing global energy uncertainty.
He pointed to geopolitical tensions, including the Middle East crisis and the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as factors contributing to volatility in global energy markets. Crude oil, he noted, remains a dominant energy source, particularly in the transportation sector.
Tajudeen explained that the pipeline surveillance contract became necessary due to long-standing challenges in the Niger Delta, where weak enforcement, agitation, and economic hardship fueled pipeline vandalism, crude oil theft, and illegal refining.
At one point, he explained, Nigeria was losing between 10 and 30 percent of its crude oil production to theft, costing the country billions of dollars annually and undermining her credibility as a reliable oil producer.
He said the Federal Government’s decision to engage private security firms and host communities was aimed at strengthening the protection of oil facilities, stressing that community participation has proven critical to the success recorded so far.
Tajudeen also highlighted the social impact of the initiative, noting that it has created jobs for thousands of youths in the Niger Delta, many of whom were previously involved in agitation and illegal activities.
Despite the progress, he acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in the areas of transparency, accountability, and the effectiveness of certain surveillance frameworks.
He reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to reforming the oil sector through legislation, oversight, and funding support. Tajudeen cited the Petroleum Production and Distribution (Anti-Sabotage) Act and the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) as key legal frameworks that introduced stricter penalties for vandalism and enhanced community participation.
He explained that under the PIA, host communities risk losing benefits if vandalism occurs within their areas, thereby promoting a sense of shared responsibility in protecting oil infrastructure.
Tajudeen added that the 10th National Assembly has intensified oversight on the implementation of the PIA, conducted investigative hearings on oil theft, and approved funding for pipeline security.
He stressed that crude oil theft should be treated not only as an economic crime but also as a national security threat requiring coordinated action.
The Speaker described the roundtable as an opportunity to consolidate gains from the surveillance contract, address existing gaps, and strengthen transparency, accountability, and community engagement in protecting Nigeria’s oil assets.
Stakeholders at the roundtable also commended the collaboration between Tantita Security Services, security agencies, and host communities, noting that the partnership has strengthened surveillance across key oil facilities in the Niger Delta and contributed to improved crude production. They urged the Federal Government to sustain the initiative while enhancing transparency and accountability mechanisms to consolidate the gains recorded in the fight against crude oil theft.
“We must position Nigeria as a reliable energy supplier in the global market,” Tajudeen said. “The world is searching for energy security, and Nigeria must present itself as a credible alternative. We cannot afford internal sabotage. Our message is clear: Nigeria is securing its assets, stabilizing production, and remains open for business.”
Maritime Agencies
NATIONAL SINGLE WINDOW: Anti-Corruption Group Hosts Seminar To Tackle Envisaged Risks.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
To deepen public understanding of the National Single Window (NSW), the Federal Government’s flagship trade facilitation initiative, an anti-corruption group, Media Anti-Corruption Initiatives (MACI), in conjunction with Hynek Media, is set to hold a one-day enlightenment seminar in Lagos on the theme “National Single Window: Strategies to Avert Failure”.
To feature also are sub-themes which include Transparency in Single Window Project – A Key to Sustainability and
Inter-Agency Rival-Free Collaboration for NSW Success.
Billed for April 15, 2026, at Rockview Hotel, Apapa GRA, the seminar brings together policymakers, regulators, private sector leaders and civil society to discuss what experts describe as tamper-proof strategies for the effective implementation of the NSW.
As stated in a release by Funso Olojo and Pastor John Iwori, secretary and media/publicity chief of the NGO respectively, the seminar will be chaired by Aare Hakeem Olanrewaju, Chairman of the Customs Consultative Committee, with Hon. Kingsley Igwe, Registrar, Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), as Co-Chairman.
Other high-profile participants expected include Dr Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the Customs Comptroller -General as guest of honour, Tola Fakolade, Director, National Single Window (Special Guest of Honour) , Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, MD, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and Dr. Dayo Mobereola, DG, NIMASA. Others are Dr. Pius Akutah, ES/CEO, Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) , Alhaji Umar Yusuf Girei, Acting MD, NIWA and
Mrs. Adesuwa Ladoja, MD, Lagos Free Trade Zone .
The NSW is designed to streamline and centralize importation and exportation processes as well as transit documentation in order to reduce duplication while enhancing transparency.
Projections are that the initiative could cut transaction costs by up to 25% and boost government revenue by as much as 20 %.
Event Highlights will feature insights from Customs controllers, freight forwarders’ associations, indigenous terminal operators, and regulators, alongside perspectives on the Lagos Free Zone Green Channel initiative.
Organizers say the seminar will provide a rare opportunity to align government agencies, private operators, and civil society around a shared vision for a seamless trade ecosystem.
However, experts warn that Nigeria’s history of reform failures underscore the need for robust implementation safeguards.
Maritime Agencies
ICTN: FG Gives Shippers’ Council Nod for a Roll-Out, Agencies Sign Performance Bonds.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
A presidential nod to commence the implementation of the International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) has been granted the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC).
Disclosing this in Lagos, Thursday, Executive Secretary of the NSC, Dr. Pius Akutah confirmed that already work is in progress to consolidate the procurement processes needed.
Dr Akutah was speaking during the Ministerial Management Retreat and the 2026 first quarter stakeholders’ engagement.
“We have already obtained approval from the President to proceed with the procurement process, and that process is ongoing,” Akutah said.
He explained that while the Nigerian Ports Authority is spearheading the deployment of the Port Community System (PCS), the NSC has been mandated to drive the ICTN, a complementary initiative aimed at enhancing cargo tracking and trade transparency.
Akutah acknowledged the troubled history of the ICTN in Nigeria, describing its past implementation attempts as “checkered,” but expressed confidence that the current administration is determined to avoid previous pitfalls.
According to him, the minister is taking deliberate steps to ensure that the project is executed seamlessly and does not suffer the repeated suspensions that hampered earlier efforts.
“The Minister is taking all the necessary steps to ensure that the implementation under his leadership will not be suspended,” he added.
He further revealed that the Council is intensifying efforts to resolve outstanding operational and stakeholder concerns ahead of the full rollout, expected before the end of 2026.
When fully operational, he assured, the ICTN is expected to significantly improve cargo visibility while strengthening regulations.
Speaking at the event which featured the signing of the traditional performance bonds between the Minister and agencies under him, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola warned heads of agencies that performance would no longer be evaluated by intentions but by verifiable results.
Dr Oyetola emphasised that all Departments and Agencies under the Ministry must remain firmly focused on delivering tangible results. These agencies include the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency and the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron. Others are the National Inland Waterways Authority and the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria.
Performance bonds signed at the retreat, the Minister explained, were binding commitments that would be rigorously monitored.
“These are not ceremonial documents. They are binding commitments. Accountability will not be optional,” he declared.
PIPELINES SURVEILLANCE: National Assembly Commends Tantita for Performance, Dismisses Petitions over Contract Award.
NATIONAL SINGLE WINDOW: Anti-Corruption Group Hosts Seminar To Tackle Envisaged Risks.
ICTN: FG Gives Shippers’ Council Nod for a Roll-Out, Agencies Sign Performance Bonds.
NPA Deepens Digitalization,Targets Port Community System As ETO undergoes Review.
Nigeria Canvasses Regional Co-operation, Investment Drive at Liberia Fisheries Summit.
PORTS MODERNIZATION, NATIONAL SINGLE WINDOW TO TACKLE PORTS CHALLENGES, Says NPA MD.
Oyetola Welcomes EU Delegation, Urges Stronger Role Against Illegal Fishing, Maritime Crimes in the GoG.
Maritime Journalists’ Group, MARAN, Set To Honour Her Past Leaders.
Tincan Customs Posts Over N120.4bn in February, 2026, A Huge Leap Above the February 2025 Records.
TRADE FACILITATION: FG Unveils National Single Window To Encourage Coordinated and Technology-Driven Trade System.
NIMASA Collaborates With KAIPTC To Empower West African Women For Digital Participation In Maritime Sector.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY, 2026: NIMASA Commits To Women Inclusion in Maritime Sector.
Apapa Customs Hits Smugglers Hard After CGC’s Visit, Intercepts ₦3.398 Billion Codeine Syrup In 5 Days.
MAN, Oron, Pushes Actualization of Her Mandate Beyond Nigeria, Seeks Strategic Partnership with Liberia Maritime Training Institute
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DOUBLE CAPTAIN!
NPA’s 2025 Operational Performance Report Validates FG’s Economic Diversification Initiatives.
2023 ELECTIONS：CILT Hosts Seminar on Logistics & Electoral Process
1. EXECUTIVE PLATFORM. AMES 2024: TIME TO CHANGE GOVERNMENT ATTITUDE TOWARDS SHIPPING DEVELOPMENT IS NOW, AMES President Charges FG.
APFFLON Seeks Immediate Reform of CRFFN, Replacement of Registrar.
OMIS AWARDS, 2022: Greg Ogbeifun, Industry Gurus For Special Recognition.
B’ODOGWU TRADE PORTAL: Customs Consolidates, Pilots Form ‘M’ Processing.
FG Set To Re-establish National Shipping Line, To Take Advantage of $10 bn Annual Ship Charter Market.
PHOTO NEWS: Maritime Capacity Development
Photo News: Salah Celebration
Sylvanus Ekpo, ex-Editor, Shipping World Magazine, loses Mum
HALF YEAR, 2024: Apapa Customs Nets ₦1.024 Trillion, Records 143% Increase.
WAR AGAINST OIL THEFT: Tompolo’s Company Nabs VLCC Laden With Crude Oil
JANUARY-MAY REPORT: Seme Customs Hits N2.6bn, Facilitates ₦35.1bn Exports.
Mama Theresa Enisuoh Due For Burial April 27
INLAND WATERWAYS OFFERS NIGERIA ALTERNATIVE REVENUE SOURCE, Says Sambo
MAN, ORON: It’s Encomiums Galore From International Seabed Authority (ISA).
SIFAX GROUP: Ojeniyi Becomes Sky Capital GMD, Omajuwa Strategy Director.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoApapa Customs Hits Smugglers Hard After CGC’s Visit, Intercepts ₦3.398 Billion Codeine Syrup In 5 Days.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoINTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY, 2026: NIMASA Commits To Women Inclusion in Maritime Sector.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoTincan Customs Posts Over N120.4bn in February, 2026, A Huge Leap Above the February 2025 Records.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoOyetola Welcomes EU Delegation, Urges Stronger Role Against Illegal Fishing, Maritime Crimes in the GoG.
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