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.
Maritime Agencies
STARZS INVESTMENTS COMPANY LTD @40: Four Decades of Advancing Indigenous Maritime Excellence.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Starzs Investments Company Ltd (SICL), Nigeria’s foremost indigenous marine and offshore logistics conglomerate has mapped out impressive programmes to commemorate her 40th anniversary in celebration of four decades of resilience, innovation, operational excellence and unique contributions to the growth of the country’s maritime industry.
The week-long event spanning July 4 to 10 has the theme ‘Transforming Lives, 40 Years On’. It will bring together industry policy makers, regulators, tested industry leaders and investors. Others are maritime professionals, development partners, host community leaders and other stakeholders to reflect on the company’s remarkable journey and explore the future of indigenous participation in Nigeria’s maritime industry and the blue economy.
The event will commence on Saturday July 4 with a Thanksgiving Service followed by Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in host communities .
Activities throughout the week will celebrate the company’s legacy of entrepreneurship, indigenous capacity development and community impact.
MV Osayamo
On Friday, July 10, the celebrations will peak with a high-level Maritime Symposium on the theme ‘Anchoring Resilience: 40 Years of Private Indigenous Initiative, Shaping Nigeria’s Maritime Future,’ followed by a Gala Night celebrating the company’s legacy and future aspirations.
Founded in 1986 by Engr Greg Ogbeifun, maritime entrepreneur and industry pioneer, SICL has grown from a modest indigenous marine services company into one of Nigeria’s leading offshore maritime logistics providers. From operating its first vessel nearly four decades ago, the company has expanded into a fleet of 11 offshore support vessels, delivering critical marine logistics and offshore support services to major international and indigenous operators in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.Over the past four decades, SICL has played a pioneering role in advancing indigenous participation in Nigeria’s offshore marine sector, investing in modern vessels, developing Nigerian seafarers, and demonstrating the capacity of indigenous companies to deliver world-class offshore logistics services.
Starzs Marine Shipyard, Onne, Rivers State.
Today, SICL employs more than 200 professionals and has successfully executed over 35 offshore marine contracts since 2010, supporting some of Nigeria’s most significant offshore energy projects. These accomplishments reflect the company’s enduring commitment to operational excellence, local content development, and sustainable value creation.
Beyond its achievements in marine logistics, SICL has evolved into a diversified business group with interests spanning maritime support services, security, automotive solutions, gas distribution, and related sectors through subsidiaries including Starzs Marine & Engineering Limited, Eaglewatch Security Limited, Diverse Autocare Limited, Starzs Gas Limited, Cee Jackson Limited, and Maritime Shipping & Ocean International Resources Limited.
One of the defining features of SICL’s legacy has been its commitment to developing Nigerian maritime talent. Through its flagship cadetship programme, the company has trained more than 100 Nigerian cadets, providing aspiring seafarers with practical sea-time experience, structured mentoring, internationally recognised professional exposure and career development opportunities aboard its vessels. Many graduates of the programme have progressed to successful careers, contributing to Nigeria’s growing pool of highly skilled maritime professionals and reinforcing the company’s long-standing commitment to indigenous capacity development.
Ms Iroghama Ogbeifun, MD/CEO, Starzs Investments Co Ltd.
Speaking ahead of the anniversary, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Iroghama Ogbeifun, described the milestone as both a celebration of the company’s legacy and a commitment to its future.
“For forty years, SICL has remained committed to building indigenous capacity, creating value, and transforming lives. What began as a bold entrepreneurial vision has grown into a diversified indigenous enterprise supporting Nigeria’s maritime and energy industries while creating opportunities for people, businesses, and communities.”
She noted that the company’s success has been built on the vision of its founder, the dedication of its employees, the confidence of its clients, and the support of its partners and host communities.
”Our greatest achievement is not simply the growth of our fleet or the expansion of our business portfolio. It is the people whose lives have been transformed through employment, training, mentorship, and opportunity. Having trained more than 100 cadets and built a workforce of over 200 dedicated professionals, we remain committed to developing the next generation of Nigerian maritime leaders while strengthening indigenous participation across the industry.”
The anniversary symposium will convene leading voices from government and industry to discuss practical strategies for strengthening indigenous ownership of maritime assets, expanding access to long-term financing, deepening local content participation, improving maritime infrastructure, accelerating workforce development, and positioning Nigeria as a globally competitive maritime nation.
Distinguished guests expected at the event include senior government officials, heads of maritime regulatory agencies, leaders of indigenous and international maritime organisations, financial institutions, development partners, community leaders, and stakeholders across the maritime, oil and gas, logistics, and shipping sectors.
Over the years, SICL has earned a reputation for operational excellence, safety, professionalism, and innovation. In addition to maintaining a modern fleet of 11 offshore support vessels, the company has successfully delivered more than 35 offshore marine contracts since 2010 while continuing to invest in human capital through its cadetship programme and workforce development initiatives. These achievements underscore SICL’s enduring contribution to Nigeria’s maritime industry and reaffirm its commitment to transforming lives through indigenous enterprise, innovation, and capacity development.
As SICL enters its fifth decade, the company remains focused on expanding indigenous capacity, driving innovation, strengthening strategic partnerships, creating sustainable opportunities, and contributing meaningfully to the realisation of Nigeria’s Blue Economy aspirations.
For SICL, the 40th anniversary is more than a celebration of longevity. It is a reaffirmation of a vision that began four decades ago and continues to shape the future of indigenous maritime enterprise in Nigeria.
FROM THE BEGINNING
Starzs Investments Company Limited (SICL) is a leading indigenous maritime and offshore logistics company with headquarters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Established in 1986, the company owns and operates a fleet of 11 offshore support vessels, employs more than 200 people, has successfully executed over 35 offshore marine contracts since 2010, and trained more than 100 Nigerian cadets through its flagship cadetship programme.
The company provides marine logistics, offshore support, vessel management, maritime security logistics, and specialised offshore services to major operators in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
Guided by its mission, “Transforming Lives, One Boat at a Time,” SICL remains committed to operational excellence, innovation, sustainability, indigenous capacity development, and supporting the continued growth of Nigeria’s maritime industry.
Maritime Agencies
WAR ON ILLICIT DRUGS: CGC Adeniyi Showers Commendations on Apapa Customs, Hands over Massive Contrabands to NDLEA, NAFDAC
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Once again, officers and men of the Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have received fresh accolades for being professional, vigilant and unwavering in pushing the realization of the aims and objectives of the Service.
Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi made the commendation in Lagos, July 1, as he unveiled and handed over nine containers of narcotics and expired pharmaceuticals recently seized by the Apapa Command to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
The contrabands worth over N53.39bn, the CGC explained, were confiscated from unscrupulous importers after painstaking intelligence gathering, scanning analysis and physical examination by the NCS in collaboration with the NDLEA and NAFDAC.
CGC Adeniyi referred to resolutions at the 147th/148th Sessions of the Council of the World Customs Organization (WCO) in Brussels, where Customs administrations from 187 member-countries deliberated on the theme, “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment,” saying the latest achievement of Apapa Command aligns with the spirit and expectations.
He said the sessions provided participants opportunities to engage with critical stakeholders including the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) and INTERPOL to deepen international cooperation to advance societal protection mandate.
“It is indeed showcasing the end- product of diligent commitment to societal cause, driven and supported by collaboration between and among Agencies, within and across our national jurisdiction,” he stated,
The massive Apapa Port seizure comes just days after the commemoration of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, reaffirming the Nigeria Customs Service’s unwavering commitment to protecting the borders, preserving the health of the citizens, safeguarding the future of the youths and strengthening national security through intelligence-driven border management, the CGC said.
”A breakdown of the seizures include: 1x40ft container with number CAAU7569127 found to contain 3,639 parcels of Cannabis Sativa (Canadian Loud) weighing 1819.5 kilograms, concealed alongside three imported vehicles and assorted automobile spare parts; and 1x40ft container with number HAMU3246311 conveying 9,918 sachets of Cannabis Sativa, weighing approximately 4.95 metric tones, concealed alongside two imported vehicles and household items.”
”Others are 1x40ft container with number MRKU3816476 conveying 1,700 cartons (170,000 bottles) of Codeine Syrup (CSP) concealed with 38 cartons of insulated casserole dishes; 1x40ft container with number TGBU5399178 conveying 1,698 cartons (169,800 bottles) of Codeine Syrup (CSP) concealed inside 36 cartons of casserole products; 1x40ft container with number HASU4519480 conveying 1,300 cartons of expired pharmaceutical products, including Tramadol (Timakadol); 1x40ft container with number MRKU4961275 conveying 1,269 cartons of expired pharmaceutical products, including Oxytocin injections, Mexclor Eye Drops and Carbamazepine tablets (Termigral brand); and 1x40ft container number PCIU8771576 comprising expired pharmaceutical products, including Cloxicillin capsules 100mg, Cynamine 12 Vitamin B12 injections and Becoline B-Complex injections.
Additionally, 1x20ft container with number MRKU 6964435 conveying Piccan Teething Powder, and 1x40ft container, No. TCKU7000791, conveying 1,100 packages of CHACOLD Chlorpheniramine Maleate Capsules bearing a fake NAFDAC Registration Number (04-6646) and an expiry date of December 2028 were also Intercepted.”
“This particular seizure at a first glance, the consignment appeared legitimate. However, a detailed verification of the NAFDAC certificate presented by the declarant established that the product is, in fact, not registered with NAFDAC. The use of a fake registration number and supporting documentation clearly indicates a deliberate attempt to smuggle unregistered pharmaceutical products into the Nigerian market, thereby posing a serious risk to public health.
“Consequently, the consignment was seized in accordance with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023, and will be handed over to NAFDAC for further regulatory action and investigation.”
Maritime Agencies
Tincan Customs Pledges Strong Partnership with the Media, Sues for Total Compliance by Stakeholders.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The Tincan Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has restated her resolve to continue to explore ways of empowering the media particularly through structured training, sensitization workshops and capacity-building programmes as it realizes that a well-informed and equipped press will not only enhance the quality of reportage but also strengthen the institutional understanding of Customs operations and challenges.
Tincan Command Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Joseph Anani stated this, Wednesday, while speaking during his maiden engagement with the press following his recent appointment. He charged the press to uphold the highest standards of professionalism while reporting the Command’s activities because responsible journalism is critical to maintaining public trust, preventing misinformation to ensure that the realization of Customs’ collective objectives is not marred by inaccurate or misleading reportage.
He pledged that the Command will not relent in leveraging the ongoing modernization of the Service as part of her forward-looking agenda.
”We are committed to strengthening systems, processes and technology-driven solutions that enhance efficiency and trade facilitation at the port.”
”In line with our new mandate, this administration will uphold total compliance with all applicable laws and regulations as enshrined in the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.”
”Compliance will be at the heart of our operations and we will continue to enforce the law firmly, fairly and professionally.”
In the area of revenue generation, Comptroller Anani announced that the Tincan Command generated N111.27 billion in the month of May and is poised for a remarkable increase in the commendable trajectory.
”This positive trajectory is a reflection of the dedication of our officers, improved compliance levels and enhanced operational efficiency.”
He promised to consolidate on these gains and, indeed, strive to surpass previous achievements by the preceding administration.
While appreciating the Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for the confidence reposed in him to head such a strategic Command, Comptroller Anani extolled his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to reform and reposition the Service for greater efficiency and global competitiveness.
He reaffirmed the Command’s openness, commitment and collaborative approach to constructive engagement with all stakeholders, including the media.
”To further strengthen our relationship with the media, the Public Relations Unit of the Command will be specifically charged with the responsibility of ensuring that all press-related matters receive the priority and attention they deserve. The Unit will maintain a close and continuous interface with members of the press, providing timely information, facilitating access to relevant developments and fostering mutual understanding between the Command and the media. We believe that a strong and professional partnership with the media is essential to achieving our objectives and keeping the public adequately informed about our activities.”
”Together we can ensure that Tincan Island Port Command continues to play its critical role in national growth, trade facilitation and revenue generation.”
STARZS INVESTMENTS COMPANY LTD @40: Four Decades of Advancing Indigenous Maritime Excellence.
WAR ON ILLICIT DRUGS: CGC Adeniyi Showers Commendations on Apapa Customs, Hands over Massive Contrabands to NDLEA, NAFDAC
Tincan Customs Pledges Strong Partnership with the Media, Sues for Total Compliance by Stakeholders.
Maritime Stakeholders Caution Journalists on Ethical Standards As MARAN Inaugurates New Leadership.
MARAN Makes History June 23 as it Inaugurates New Leadership.
MARAN President, Oluyinka Onigbinde, Bags ‘Maritime Reporter of the Year’ Award.
APAPA CUSTOMS’ Intelligence-led Operations Yield Massive Seizure of Cannabis Sativa, other Contrabands.
Greg Ogbeifun, Warredi Enisuoh, Task FG on Shipping Development as Platform Communications Marks 10th Anniversary.
Capt Warredi Enisuoh Set To Deliver Keynote Speech At 10th AMSAY Conference.
Ports Police Seek Stronger Media Collaboration to Boost Maritime Security.
New MARAN Leadership Set for Inauguration, June 23.
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CHANGE OF BATON at PTML Customs, Miko Replaces Joe Anani.
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REPORTER’S DIARY: How Lagos State Task Force Made Me ‘Igbobi Landlord’ For Filming Operatives Extorting Suspected ‘Okada’ Operators In Apapa*
Tantita Donates 15 Gun Boats to Nigerian Army, Navy.
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PHOTO NEWS: Maritime Capacity Development
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoGreg Ogbeifun, Warredi Enisuoh, Task FG on Shipping Development as Platform Communications Marks 10th Anniversary.
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Maritime Agencies19 hours agoWAR ON ILLICIT DRUGS: CGC Adeniyi Showers Commendations on Apapa Customs, Hands over Massive Contrabands to NDLEA, NAFDAC
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Maritime Agencies8 hours agoSTARZS INVESTMENTS COMPANY LTD @40: Four Decades of Advancing Indigenous Maritime Excellence.