Maritime Agencies
COMTUA, AWAEMAP CRY OUT: NPA MD Is Grounding Nigerian Exports, Sending Us Out Of Business.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The Association of West African Exporters and Maritime Professionals (AWAEMAP) has raised the alarm, accusing the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Mr Mohamed Bello-Koko of strangulating them out of the nation’s agro export-processing industry to give room for him and his cronies to corner undeserved retirement businesses for themselves.
AWAEMAP brought this to light at a press conference it organized in Lagos, Thursday, in conjunction with the Conference of Maritime Truck Unions and Associations (COMTUA).
Speaking at the event, AWAEMAP President, Bunmi Olumekun, alleged that the NPA Managing Director has unilaterally chosen five out of many Export Processing Terminals (EPT) to process agro exports. Sadly, two of these belong to Lebanese with whom he has joint hidden interests.
AWAEMAP is worried that the NPA MD seeks to introduce a new Standard Operating System to establish one-stop terminal for agro export containers.
“These terminals referred to as Domestic Export Warehouse (DEW) are meant to serve the purpose of a one-stop shop for all government regulatory agencies to process all agro export containers and also serve as the only pre-gate terminals for all agro export container boxes seeking access into Apapa Port and all other port complexes in Nigeria for onward shipment to various destinations across the globe”.
The body stated that the measure by the NPA would have received applause if going for the five warehouses as being arranged would serve to complement the already- existing licensed customs warehouses scattered all over Nigeria.
“Rather, the decision is to refuse entry into Nigerian ports all over the country any agro bound container that has not made use of these warehouses.”
Condemning the decision of the NPA MD on this matter, the Association said by designating only five warehouses where export-bound containers would be accepted for getting-in, he has contravened the Customs & Excise Management Act, (CEMA), CAP 84 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 1990, especially Part IV, Section 82 which clearly makes provisions for the use of licensed warehouses including private warehouses for the purpose of processing export-bound goods.
“This decision is being enabled by the MD of NPA to ensure he continues to enrich himself even after his tenure at the helms of NPA comes to an end.
“The NPA MD who has disclosed and undisclosed interest in these warehouses has decided that for his ulterior motive to come to light, he must likewise destroy the Nigerian economy while at the same time increasing the unemployment rate of Nigerians. We understand that out of the five warehouses being introduced, two are owned and operated by foreign entities.”
The consequence of implementing the policy, AWAEMAP regretted, is that all the existing Licensed/FPIS warehouses used, owned and managed by her members nationwide would become useless.
“These DEW which are limited in number would be overrun by thousands of agro-export containers, thereby creating another round of congestion in and around the ports environment.”
“This policy will take the export industry several years back after all the improvement and achievements recorded since the introduction and implementation of the Electronic Call-up System through the Eto mobile App.”
It warned that if Bello Koko is allowed to implement what it described as a repugnant policy, it will wipe off improvements and sanity being witnessed in Apapa ports. It will also increase the overall cost of exporting agro commodities in Nigeria.
“Invariably, our exportation prowess will decrease as exporters will be forced to sell at a loss as the international rates of exportable cash crops takes no cognizance of the exorbitant cost of exportations of our country due to the greed of a select few.”
AWAEMAP insists that with the introduction of this policy, exporters would be forced to pay for handling charge, weighbridge documentation and examination position fee. Others impositions are trucking to ports and storage charges cumulatively amounting to about $650 extra charges per container box.
“All these charges listed would have been incurred by exporters prior to accessing this DEW invariably leads to double expenditure for exporters.
Currently, agro-export containers departing Benin and other neighbouring countries come at a cost of $200 cheaper than exporting same value agro export container box from any port within Nigeria following numerous regulatory and logistic challenges prevalent in the maritime export industry.
The body condemned the situation whereby her members are being subjected to hardship, finding it hard to survive as they compete with neighbouring countries.
It stressed the need to condemn and prevent the actions of the NPA MD in this matter “as the ripple effect of this policy will cut across all spheres of the Nigerian economy”.
Even though business is free, Bunmi Olumekun observed, “but we can’t be subjected to the whims and caprices of NPA MD’s cronies.”
He beckoned on Nigerians to intervene and help them because of the damage PFP is doing to the system.
In his contribution, the Boat Chairman, Alhaji Ina-Olaji Nofiu Liadi recalled that processing a container in NPA’s so-called five warehouses costs an exporter not less than N120,000. Other constraints, he stated, are unbearable bank charges coupled with expenses on the Eto system. He regretted that this cannot be regulated.
“Our case is on terminal export processing of goods whereby goods already processed are to go through same process in their so-called five terminals.
He said they had gone to court to interpret reasons processed export goods must undergo fresh processing to satisfy NPA MD and his cronies who run the five terminals in question.
Speaking on behalf of his group, Comrade Adeyinka Aroyewun, President, Conference of Maritime Truck Unions Associations (COMTUA) was emphatic that NPA’s agenda was to keep truck owners out of business and to expose them to what he called stiff competition with foreigners now in the picture.
“We’re rejecting the export-processing terminals. Why should we go through NPA whose poor management acts led to ports concession? NPA does not meet with any stakeholder in the transportation industry. He queried the TTP, insisting that terminal operators reject containers due to scarcity of information on the terminals by the NPA, a reason trucks remain on the road despite Eto.
“There is a racket between NPA and TTP Ltd. We’re rejecting NPA’s involvement in cargo handling. Extortion is NPA’s aim, provision of jobs to NPA’s cronies through whom they corner money and chase is out of business.”
COMTUA beckoned on the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) to intervene and use her good offices as the economic regulator to discourage the attitude of business grabbing being exhibited by the NPA.
COMTUA warned that the Federal Government should not allow anybody discourage her in the interest to grow export of goods from Nigeria.
Efforts to get the NPA side of the matter before publication were unsuccessful as calls to relevant units were not responded to.
Customs
Kaila, Seme Customs Boss, Pledges To Eradicate Trade Barriers, Visits Stakeholders To Create Awareness.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has restated a strong desire to ensure free movement of goods and services along the Lagos-Abidjan international trade corridor by eradicating all negative factors involved. This it is implementing through effective collaboration and engagement with critical stakeholders.
This is contained in a release by the Command’s image maker, Superintendent of Customs J.T. Ayagbalo, on behalf of Comptroller Kaila, the Customs Area Controller.
While on a series of familiarization visits to the Palaces of traditional rulers and stations of heads of sister security agencies, the CAC announced that the step signifies a bold commitment to achieving the goals and objectives of the Service in line with the Federal government economic policies.
At the Palace of Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, the Customs Area Controller condoled with the royal family and entire people of Badagry kingdom on the passing away of HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, a highly recognized traditional ruler across the border communities and beyond.
””The purpose of my visit is to introduce myself as the Area Controller of Seme Command and to equally seek your royal blessing and support to achieve the core mandate of the service. Our priority remains to generate revenue, facilitate trade and suppress smuggling. And we in the Customs believe that without due support and co-operation from traditional rulers, we cannot have effective performance of our functions as Customs officers” he said.
In response, the King Regent, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, described Kaila as a son of the soil, added: “We have listened to your request. Know that Badagry is a very peaceful town, and we will keep collaborating with you in safeguarding our borders and in promoting legitimate trade, ” he stated.
Comptroller Kaila also visited the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori-Kingdom, where the monarch, Oba Israel Okoya where he signified his commitment to fostering the service’s relationship with residents living within the border communities
”I welcome you to Badagry and be rest assured that I will always talk to my people whenever the need is required. In our town, our youth does not engage in illegalities as I have no other choice than to assist you in achieving the government mandate, ” he stated.
While at the Palace of Alapa of Apa Kingdom the king HRM Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye commended and described the CAC, Comptroller Kaila as a professional, seasoned and well respected officer as described by indigenes of border communities.
”I promise you that I will always assist you in my area for anything that you need. Our border here has been peaceful because our youth always listen to the elders, and I know with your present here, things will change for the better, ” he said
In his efforts to consolidate on existing synergy between sister security agencies, the controller visited Headquarters of 653 Nigerian Air force base, Ahanve-Badagry. The Air Force base formation expressed their readiness to always support the command in achieving its mandate. This was revealed by the Commanding Officer, Group Captain Hungruy Medugu, where he added that both agencies shared similar purposes.
”Our collaboration has been key to various successes we have recorded in our area of responsibility. Your presence here strengthens existing bonds of inter-agency collaboration between both Services, and we will not take it for granted ,” he said
The Area Controller then ended his familiarization tour by seeking for mutual cooperation with a visit to the Republic of Benin Police office showing his readiness to eradicate hindrances affecting the free movement of goods and services across the border.
Maritime Agencies
AMJON Honours NPA’s Anda with ‘Most Resourceful Port Manager’ Award At 2026 Conference.
Story by Dili Utomi.
”I want to thank the managing director of the Nigerian Ports Authority and his management team for giving me the opportunity to serve. Working in the kind of environment where I found myself requires great teamwork and as you can see around me now, I have my very efficient team always with me and so I am very proud to have this team. I also give glory to God for everything including the recognition that I got today”
Above are some of the emotions that pervaded the atmosphere as the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) held its 2026 Conference and Awards with the theme: “Attaining Ports Efficiency In The Face Of Emerging Technology”.
The Conference and Awards which took place Thursday at the Conference room of the Rockview Hotel, Apapa had in attendance big industry players. Chaired by the cerebral Barr. Jean Chiazor-Anishere SAN, the event delved into major requirements to make the Nigerian ports more efficient.
In her opening speech, the President of AMJON, Vera Osokpo noted that “Artificial Intelligence is clearing cargo in Singapore; Blockchain is tracking containers in Rotterdam while Ghana runs a 24-hour port with one platform”.
”Meanwhile, UN-SEE-TAD says 90% of Nigeria’s trade pass through the ports. The World Bank says every day of delay cuts 5% of that trade. LCCI says we lose $19 billion a year to inefficiency”.
She urged everyone present to ask for access to information, respect for the media, and sincerity of purpose.
” Give us those three, and together we will tell the world that Nigerian ports can work”, she stated.
In his presentation, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho who was represented by the Port Manager, Lekki Deep Sea Port, Mr. Emmanuel Anda, underscored the urgent need for accelerated port modernisation to position Nigeria for optimal benefits under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
”Port modernisation is not merely an infrastructure project; it is a national economic priority”.
Mr. Anda said that the development of deep seaports, particularly Lekki Port, is expanding Nigeria’s trade capabilities.
On digital transformation, he informed that the NPA is advancing the Port Community System and supporting the implementation of the National Single Window to enhance stakeholder integration, reduce delays and improve transparency.
He outlined key reforms being driven by the Authority, including infrastructure upgrades at Apapa and Tin Can Island ports aimed at boosting capacity, improving berth productivity and reducing vessel turnaround time.
The Lekki Deep Sea Port Manager also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve operational efficiency through faster cargo clearance processes and reduced dwell time, as well as enhanced connectivity via rail links, inland dry ports, barging operations, and export corridor.
In his own presentation, a former member of the Federal House of Assembly, Mufutau Egbeorongbe advocated for urgent adoption of emerging technologies to improve efficiency across Nigerian ports, warning that outdated systems are no longer sustainable in modern maritime trade.
Mr. Egbeorongbe noted that “Ports serve as critical gateways for international trade and economic growth, but many continue to struggle with congestion, delays, high operational costs and infrastructure deficits. He noted that emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, automation, and digital twin systems are reshaping port operations globally.
While speaking on the role of host communities, another attendee, Dr.Mike Egbeyalo noted that “Port host communities are critical stakeholders in maritime economies, yet they often bear disproportionate environmental and social costs of port operations”.
He argued that prosperity requires a shift to sustainablilty-driven Port management anchored on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles.
The award session saw several persons cart away laurels of different categories. The Award for the ‘Most Resourceful Manager of the Year 2025’ went to Mr. Emmanuel Anda.
According to his citation, Mr Anda attended Corona Nursery and Primary School, Apapa before the prestigious Federal Government College Lagos after which he proceeded to the University of Lagos for his first degree. He also got his Master’s degree in Public Administration at the University of Lagos, majoring in Policy.
Emmanuel Anda started work in February, 1993 as a Traffic Officer 11 in the NPA. He rose through the ranks having worked in virtually all units in the Traffic Department.
From the Port Exit Gates to the Car Parks, Container Terminals to Operations, he moved to the Administration unit and the Receiving section. He also worked in the Shed and Export units. Mr Anda has worked in Roro Port (Roll On Roll Off), Tin Can Island Port Complex proper, Kirikiri Lighter Terminal, Ikorodu Lighter Terminal, Lagos Port Complex to name a few. He has been member of several in-house committees, one of which advised on the Badagry Sea Port.
Mr Anda was the pioneer NPA Manager at PTML Terminal in Tincan Island Port Complex.
He was also the pioneer take-off Manager of the NPA Call-up system at Lilypond Ijora which later metamorphosed into Eto Call-up system.
Mr Anda has been Terminal Manager, Ikorodu Lighter Terminal, acting Traffic Manager, Tincan Island Port Complex twice, substantive Traffic Manager, Kirikiri Lighter Terminal, substantive traffic Manager, Lagos Port Complex and now the Port Manager of Nigeria’s super bride Lekki Deep Seaport.
Speaking on the sidelines concerning the success story of the Lekki Deepsea Port, he predicted that “over the next ten years, a lot of deep sea ports would have been fully been developed, what with ours, the Lekki Deep Sea Port in operation now and others like the proposed Dangote Deep Sea Port, Badagry, Ibom and Escravos Deep Sea Ports in the pipeline”.
”The other sea ports currently operating as major ports but with shallow droughts shall become less relevant and more of transit points for cargoes, receiving transshipment from others”.
In an interview, chairman of the occasion, Barr Jean Chiazor-Anishere commended AMJON for coming up with such a topical theme.
”We know that the world has gone digital,” she noted , “and there is a need for the media to tell the government about what it needs to do in order for us to have the needful”.
”The federal government, to me, is doing its best to automate the ports, what with the efforts to make the ports smart. Most of our ports are old and they are attempting to rejuvenate the existing ports as well as encourage the building of deepsea ports”, she concluded.
Maritime Agencies
NPA Targets Nigerian Ports As West Africa’s Trade Nerve Centre, Taking Advantage of AfCFTA.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
In a high-stakes bid to secure a dominant position in intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho says the Federal Government is already stepping up an overhaul of the nation’s port system.
Addressing industry stakeholders in Lagos, Dantsoho described port modernisation as a critical economic imperative that will shape Nigeria’s competitiveness in a rapidly integrating continental market.
With AfCFTA lowering trade barriers across Africa, he warned that countries with faster, more efficient and technology-driven ports will capture a disproportionate share of cargo traffic and investment flows.
“Nigeria’s geographical advantage alone is no longer sufficient,” he said.
“Efficiency, speed, innovation and reliability will define leadership in this new era.”
At the core of the NPA’s strategy is a broad reform programme targeting long-standing structural bottlenecks that have historically weakened Nigeria’s port competitiveness.
Dantsoho highlighted ongoing infrastructure upgrades at Apapa and Tin Can Island ports, aimed at improving berth productivity, expanding capacity and reducing vessel turnaround time—key indicators of port efficiency.
He also underscored the growing role of deep seaports, particularly Lekki Port, in transforming Nigeria’s maritime landscape by accommodating larger vessels and boosting cargo throughput.
Industry observers view these developments as crucial to easing congestion at legacy ports while positioning Nigeria to handle rising trade volumes expected under AfCFTA.
Beyond physical infrastructure, the NPA is accelerating a shift toward digitalisation to tackle inefficiencies associated with manual processes and fragmented systems.
Central to this transition is the Port Community System (PCS), alongside the Federal Government’s National Single Window initiative, both designed to integrate port stakeholders, streamline documentation and enhance transparency.
Experts say full implementation could significantly cut cargo clearance times and reduce the cost of doing business—longstanding concerns among importers and exporters.
Operational reforms are also underway, focusing on reducing cargo dwell time, improving service delivery and ensuring faster clearance processes across terminals.
In parallel, the NPA is strengthening multimodal connectivity to support seamless cargo evacuation.
Rail integration, inland dry ports, barging operations and dedicated export corridors are being expanded to decongest seaports and improve nationwide logistics efficiency.
Dantsoho stressed that without efficient hinterland connectivity, gains made at the ports would be difficult to sustain.
Recognising the scale of investment required, the NPA is also deepening partnerships with private sector investors and global operators to drive sustainable growth and align Nigeria’s ports with international standards.
The expected impact of these reforms is significant: faster operations, lower logistics costs, increased trade volumes, higher government revenue and improved export competitiveness.
Analysts note that efficient ports could play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic diversification drive, particularly by supporting non-oil exports and industrial expansion.
In his concluding remarks, Dantsoho framed the Federal Government’s reform agenda as a decisive shift from inefficiency to performance, expressing confidence that Nigeria can emerge as a preferred maritime gateway to West Africa.
Kaila, Seme Customs Boss, Pledges To Eradicate Trade Barriers, Visits Stakeholders To Create Awareness.
AMJON Honours NPA’s Anda with ‘Most Resourceful Port Manager’ Award At 2026 Conference.
NPA Targets Nigerian Ports As West Africa’s Trade Nerve Centre, Taking Advantage of AfCFTA.
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