Maritime Agencies
EXPORT TRADE: AMATO Decries Sabotage of Port Entry Protocols By Operators, Restates Need For Automation.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO) has expressed concerns that efforts being made to grow Nigeria’s export trade and encourage exportation through automation are being brazenly thwarted by unscrupulous exporters and transporters in the business trade, reports say.
According to Adeshina Ajibola, AMATO’s Head of Research and Development, the whole essence of encouraging export trade stands to be rubbished if the trucking system to access and exit the ports are not automated.
“Once there is any loophole for abuse, trust Nigerians, they will take advantage of it to the point that racketeering will now come in and this is why AMATO has been pushing for full automation of truck movements in and out of the ports.”
He regrets that when the export process is left open, there is a free-for-all and the tendency for abuse is enhanced. What is currently being experienced for import cargoes will also be seen in the export process.
There are indications that the nation’s export trade is currently being threatened
As some unidentified exporters and transporters have devised means to undermine the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the movement of export cargoes to the port from designated Export Processing Terminals in Lagos, established rules and regulations governing port entry are being circumvented without taking into account the consequences on due process and the economy.
This development, findings show, has led to congestion of Export Processing Terminals in the princit of the Lagos Ports as cargoes meant for movement into Apapa ports are currently stuck at these approved Terminals.
Reports suggest that unscrupulous exporters may be working to sabotage the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) initiated by the Nigerian Ports Authority through sidestepping the official protocols for port entry.
This development, Vanguard gathered, has disrupted the operation of the approved EPTs in Lagos as exporters that comply with the protocol for port entry have had their cargoes stuck as they are not regularly called into Apapa port due to the activities of exporters that operate outside established protocols.
The unauthorized movement of export cargoes outside established protocols typically takes place under the cover of night. Under special arrangements and compromise, several government officials at Eleganza Roundabout in Apapa allegedly oversee such unauthorized operations.
Vanguard’s investigation reveal that trucks carrying export goods now occupy the service lane at the Sunrise end of the Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, Commercial Road, opposite Guaranty Trust Bank all the way to Mr. Biggs Junction, as well as Creek Road, turning it into a waiting area, truck park for night movement of cargo to the Lagos Port Complex.
Vanguard further gathered that movement of export cargoes into the ports was caused by an approved ETP that is far from the port corridors.
This particular ETP, it was gathered, admits in their facility and exit trucks into port in virtual circumvention of the call-up system instituted by the NPA, a development that is at variance with the Standard Operating Procedure through which trucks are admitted into the port.
Admitting trucks virtually is also against the established process through which NPA makes requests from EPTs for export truck and container manifests before such cargoes enter the ports in a regulated manner.
The seamless movement of export trucks into port, it is observed, has been managed for a long time until about a month ago when the ugly trend of bypassing the SOP started.
The Task Force constituted by the Nigerian Ports Authority to manage the movement of this category of cargoes has been overwhelmed by the situation.
The Task Force, it was gathered, has begun to turn these illegal trucks back to wherever they were coming from. But these trucks would always find their way to the established export lane on Wharf Port access road.
This is because the compromised government officials at Eleganza Roundabout keep allowing them to come back to export cargo lane and eventually gain access into Apapa port.
Reacting to the development, the Apapa Port Manager, Mr. Debo Lawal, denied the suggestion that many trucks that enter the port may have not been manifested. No truck gets access to the port without a manifest, he added.
However, this does not distract from the reality that many trucks access the Apapa port without manifest following the trending irregularities.
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Maritime Agencies
To Attain Maritime Excellence, Conversations Must Translate Into Concrete Actions, says MAN Rector.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Nigeria’s maritime stakeholders and business community have once again been reminded that the future of global trade is being shaped by technology, efficiency and sustainability across the world because ports are evolving from traditional gateways into intelligent ecosystems powered by automation, data and innovation.
Acting Rector, Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, Dr. Kevin Okonna stated this in Lagos, Friday, while speaking at a town hall meeting put together by JournalNG, on the theme “Towards a Regime of Smart Ports in Nigeria.”
Represented by Domo Umoekpe, the agency’s Head of Public Affairs, Dr Okonna said “Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind; our ports must not only catch up, they must be at the forefront.”
”A smart port is more than digital infrastructure. It requires seamless operations, reduced turnaround time, enhanced security, environmental responsibility, and, most importantly, a workforce equipped with the right knowledge and skills to drive it.”
At the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, he stated, emphasis is placed on a competent workforce as the bedrock of every smart system.
”So, we are committed to raising forward-thinking maritime professionals who are not only technically sound but digitally ready for this evolving landscape. The Academy offers courses relevant to port operations, port management and port security with emphasis on utilization of digital technologies to achieve smart operations. The Academy is also equipped with smart classrooms, state-of-the-art training facilities, including advanced simulators that provide hands-on experiences in very conducive digital learning spaces.”
He announced that the Academy recently obtained an international certification from the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) for its Integrated Management System (IMS) in line with the requirements of ISO 9001:2015 for Quality Management Systems (QMS) and ISO 21001:2025 for Educational Organizations Management System (EOMS).
”This milestone underscores our unwavering commitment to global best practices, quality assurance, and maritime education and training excellence – values that are significant to the smart port vision.”
”As we chart this course together, let us be bold in our thinking, deliberate in our actions and united in our purpose. The journey towards smart ports in Nigeria is not a distant dream, it is a present responsibility, that we are all be involved”
He commended JournalNG, organizers of the event, for creating what he referred to as an important platform. He urged all stakeholders to translate conversations of the day into concrete actions that will reposition Nigeria as a hub of maritime excellence.
”Together, we can build ports that are not just functional, but digitally integrated and smart,” he concluded.
Highlight of the event was the Distinguished Leadership Award bestowed on the Acting Rector.
Maritime Agencies
Capt Iheanacho Underscores the Critical Role of Media As MARAN Celebrates Past Leaders.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Even as responsible reportage induces sectoral reforms and investment, inaccurate reporting can undermine progress and erode confidence.
Capt Emmanuel Iheanacho, Master Mariner and former Minister of Interior stated this, Friday, while speaking as guest at a reception the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) hosted in Lagos to honour her past presidents.
Iheanacho, who spoke through Dr. Emeka Akabogwu (SAN), delivered this message at a reception organised by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) in honour of its past presidents in Lagos.
Drawing from nearly five decades of experience across private enterprise and public service, the former minister who was represented by Barr Emeka Akabogu (SAN) identified agenda-setting, accountability, public education, and stakeholder mobilisation as the four key functions through which the media can influence maritime development.
The media, he explained, possesses a unique power to shape national priorities by consistently highlighting industry challenges such as port congestion, high transaction costs, infrastructure gaps, and policy inconsistencies.
“Many genuine industry problems do not move into policy consciousness until the media shines a consistent light on them. Sustained and informed reporting is necessary to ensure reforms are not only initiated but also followed through to completion.”
On accountability, Iheanacho acknowledged the watchdog role played by maritime journalists in exposing inefficiencies, corruption risks, and administrative bottlenecks across the sector. However, he cautioned against reporting based on incomplete facts or insufficient technical understanding.
“A misleading report may damage confidence, unsettle investors, and distort policy debates. Accountability journalism must therefore be rigorous, fair, and evidence-based,” he cautioned.
He further stressed the importance of public education, noting that the maritime industry remains highly technical and often poorly understood by the general public despite its direct impact on trade, pricing, and employment.
He called for more data-driven reporting, simplified explanation of policies and increased coverage of inland waterways and coastal economies, warning that Nigeria cannot build a strong blue economy with a poorly informed public.
On stakeholder mobilisation, Iheanacho said the media plays a vital role in bridging the gap between government, regulators, and private operators, helping to build consensus and sustain momentum around reforms.
“The media provides the platform where alignment begins. But beyond reporting events, journalists must track commitments and ensure that promises translate into measurable outcomes,” he added.
Addressing MARAN members directly, he described maritime journalism as a “strategic national assignment,” urging practitioners to deepen their technical knowledge, interrogate data, and maintain credibility in their reportage.
“Your words can attract confidence—or discourage it. Your analysis can clarify choices—or deepen confusion,” he said
Adding historical context to the association’s evolution, MARAN’s pioneer president, Alban Opara, in a brief historical reflection, recalled that the association was founded in 1988 at the height of port congestion and economic reforms under the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) of the Babangida administration.
He noted that early maritime reporters operated without accreditation, often gaining access to ports under difficult conditions, but remained committed to investigative and developmental journalism.
He added that MARAN was established not only to protect the interests of maritime journalists but also to position the media as a critical partner in national economic and maritime development.
In his goodwill message, former Comptroller of Customs and District Head of Ketare, Katsina State, Alhaji Usman Bello Kankara, traced his long-standing relationship with MARAN which began in 1989 during his tenure as Public Relations Officer at the Apapa Customs Command.
Kankara, who was represented at the event, commended the association for its professionalism and support over the years, recalling how MARAN’s coverage contributed to his recognition as Best PRO of the Nigeria Customs Service in 1999 and helped the Tin Can Island Command earn accolades for public engagement.
In his speech, Capt Sunday Umoren, Secretary-General of the Abuja MoU on Port State Control in West and Central Africa, lauded MARAN for contributing to maritime advocacy and transparency. Capt Umoren who was represented by Engr Richard Owolabi described the association as a vital partner in promoting safe and sustainable shipping in West and Central Africa.
Among past MARAN presidents recognised was Dr.Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy who was described as a “destiny supporter” and a key ally in advancing regional maritime objectives.
The Abuja MoU reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with MARAN to enhance accurate reporting and support the growth of a safe and environment ally free ports.
Recalling the association’s formation in 1988, MARAN Caretaker Committee Chairman Tunde Ayodele said many of the pioneers were young professionals in their early 30s at the time, who came together to establish a dedicated maritime reporting beat in Nigeria.
“Today, many of them are in their 60s and 70s, and we gather not just to celebrate their years, but to honour their enduring legacy, sacrifice, and vision,” he said.
Ayodele noted that MARAN’s past presidents had distinguished themselves not only in journalism but also in public service, advisory roles, and national development, citing figures such as Alban Opara, Elder Asu Beks, Sesan Onileimo, Elder Pius Mordi, and Dr. Bolaji Akinola as examples of enduring leadership.
“When my team assumed office as caretakers, one of our key priorities was to reconnect with our roots by honouring these great men,” he said, adding that their wisdom and guidance remain essential to the association’s future.
He appealed to the past leaders to continue to see MARAN as their home, stressing that their continued involvement would strengthen the association and sustain its relevance in the maritime sector.
Maritime Agencies
Ihenacho, Ogbeifun, Shittu, Other Industry Heavyweights Confirm Attendance As MARAN Celebrates Past Presidents
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Key stakeholders in the maritime sector have given a firm assurance to attend the much-awaited reception organized by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) to honour her past presidents in appreciation of their invaluable contributions to the growth of the umbrella body of maritime journalists.
These include Master Mariner and erstwhile Minister of Interior, Captain Emmanuel Ihenacho, pioneer President, Ship Owners Association of Nigeria (SOAN) and Chairman, Starzs Group, Engr. Greg Ogbeifun
and former National President, Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA)/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Skellas Group, Prince Olayiwola Shittu among others.
The reception which is scheduled to take place this Friday, April 24th, 2026 at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos is expected to be a melting point for who- is -who in Nigeria’s maritime industry as more and more stakeholders indicate interest to attend.
Beside these key stakeholders, notable dignitaries from government institutions, including the ones under the purview of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy have all indicated interest to grace the occasion.
In a statement by Tunde Ayodele, the Caretaker Committee Chairman and Funso Olojo, the Planning Committee Chairman, the 38 year-old MARAN described the special reception as a landmark event aimed at celebrating leadership, service and the enduring contributions of media professionals to the growth of Nigeria’s maritime industry. “Following weeks of intensive planning and stakeholders’ engagement, the association confirms that it has concluded arrangements for the high-profile ceremony with overwhelming support and positive responses already recorded from key players across the maritime sector.
“The event, which promises to be a gathering of industry heavyweights, ministry officials, policymakers, regulators, terminal operators, shipping companies, freight forwarders, and other critical stakeholders, is designed not only to honour past leaders of the association but also to reinforce the role of maritime journalism in shaping policy, promoting accountability and driving sectoral growth”.
The reception will serve as a platform to reflect on the legacies of past presidents whose leadership helped position the association as a respected voice in the maritime space.
Ayodele said that the event will also provide an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between the media and industry operators at a time the sector is undergoing significant reforms and modernization.
On his part, Olojo averred that the willingness of stakeholders to support and attend the event underscores its importance to the wider maritime community.
Giving an overview of the event, Olojo , who doubles as the Chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT) of MARAN, declared that it would serve as a veritable platform to celebrate excellence, hard work, and quality leadership of MARAN past leaders.
”MARAN as the progenitor of beat associations in the maritime industry, has produced finest individuals who have had the privilege of leading this great association.
”They have sacrificed their time, energy and intellect to make MARAN the greatest beat association in the maritime industry.
“More encouraging is the fact that all of these past leaders are currently doing well in their different endeavours.
”Some are excelling as Ministers of God in the Lord’s vineyard, some are holding their own in the legal profession, and some have become media moguls and employers of labour while some are practicing their crafts as political appointees.
” It is at this reception that MARAN hopes to unveil their excellence and celebrate their rising profiles,” he added.
Giving an insight into the programme for the reception, Olojo said the event is expected to feature award presentations, goodwill messages and networking sessions that will foster deeper engagement among stakeholders while celebrating excellence in maritime journalism.
The association therefore calls on industry stakeholders, corporate organizations and well-meaning individuals to be part of this historic event through sponsorships, partnerships, and active participation.
MARAN remains the foremost maritime journalists beat association with an International Press Centre (IPC) situated at its secretariat in Government Reservation Area (GRA), Apapa, Lagos.
It is also a professional body that is committed to promoting ethical journalism, capacity building, and informed reporting within Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy sector.
To Attain Maritime Excellence, Conversations Must Translate Into Concrete Actions, says MAN Rector.
Capt Iheanacho Underscores the Critical Role of Media As MARAN Celebrates Past Leaders.
Ihenacho, Ogbeifun, Shittu, Other Industry Heavyweights Confirm Attendance As MARAN Celebrates Past Presidents
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MARAN Confirms Readiness To Celebrate Past Presidents.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoNATIONAL SINGLE WINDOW: Anti-Corruption Group Hosts Seminar To Tackle Envisaged Risks.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoNSW: Stakeholders Fear Success With Weak Commitment by Drivers and Lack of Reforms by Government.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoSINGLE WINDOW HICCUPS: Shippers’ Council, Revenue Service Canvass Waivers for Importers .
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks ago
NATIONAL SINGLE WINDOW: MACI, Hynek Host Parley To Address Risks and Concerns.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoPIPELINES SURVEILLANCE: National Assembly Commends Tantita for Performance, Dismisses Petitions over Contract Award.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoAkutah, Shippers’ Council Boss, Denies Political Distraction Claims, Insists He’s Focused on His Duties.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoMARAN Confirms Readiness To Celebrate Past Presidents.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoDantsoho, NPA MD, Attributes Maritime Sector Transformation to Reforms and Minister’s Leadership Style.