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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By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The Ports Authority Police (Western) Command has called for deeper collaboration with maritime journalists as part of efforts to strengthen security within Nigeria’s port environment and support the growth of the nation’s maritime economy.
Commissioner of Police, Ports Authority Police (Western) Command, CP Oluwatoyin Iyabode Agbaminoja, made the call on Tuesday while receiving the newly elected executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) during a courtesy visit to the Command Headquarters in Apapa, Lagos.
The visit, led by MARAN President, Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde, provided an opportunity for both parties to reaffirm their commitment to promoting safety, security, and operational efficiency across Nigeria’s maritime domain.
Speaking during the engagement, Onigbinde commended the Command for its efforts in safeguarding the nation’s ports and other critical maritime assets, noting that security remains a key pillar for sustainable trade and economic development.
He pledged MARAN’s continued support through responsible journalism, accurate reporting, and constructive engagement with stakeholders in the maritime sector.
According to him, the media has a crucial role to play in creating public awareness, promoting transparency, and highlighting issues that impact the efficiency and competitiveness of Nigerian ports.
In her remarks, CP Agbaminoja congratulated the newly elected MARAN leadership and acknowledged the association’s longstanding contribution to the dissemination of credible information on developments within the maritime industry.
She emphasized that stronger cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the media would enhance public trust, improve security consciousness, and contribute to national economic growth.
The Commissioner noted that effective communication and timely information sharing are essential in addressing security challenges within the port ecosystem, stressing that the media remains a strategic partner in achieving those objectives.
She further assured the association of the Command’s readiness to maintain open channels of communication and foster productive partnerships aimed at advancing port security, maritime safety, and trade facilitation.
Nigeria’s ports serve as critical gateways for international trade and revenue generation, making security within the maritime sector a matter of national economic importance. Stakeholders have consistently advocated greater collaboration among security agencies, regulators, operators, and the media to strengthen surveillance, curb criminal activities, and improve operational efficiency.
The meeting concluded with both the Ports Authority Police Command and MARAN reaffirming their commitment to sustained engagement and cooperation in support of a safer and more efficient maritime industry.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Nigeria’s pioneer maritime journalists’ body, the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) will inaugurate her brand new Executive Council on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at the Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos.
The high-profile event which is planned to bring together key stakeholders from the maritime, shipping, logistics, security, and media sectors will also feature discussions on strengthening ethical standards in maritime journalism.
The theme of the inauguration is “Upholding Ethical Journalism for Maritime Development.”
The Chairman of the occasion is Emmanuel Maiguwa Gankino, President, Maritime Security Providers Association of Nigeria (MASPAN), while the keynote address will be delivered by Mr. Bolaji Abimbola, a leading public relations and event management expert.
Special Guests of Honour expected at the event include the Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola; the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho; the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Barr. Pius Akutah Ukeyima; and the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR. Also expected are chief executives of maritime agencies, captains of industry, leaders of maritime associations, terminal operators, shipping companies, freight forwarders, and other critical stakeholders across the maritime value chain.
Speaking ahead of the inauguration, MARAN President, Comrade. Oluyinka Onigbinde, described the event as a defining moment in the association’s journey towards deepening professionalism, credibility, and responsible maritime reportage.
The new executive council, he stated, will focus on repositioning MARAN as a stronger voice within the maritime sector through capacity building, constructive engagement, and adherence to ethical journalism standards.
He noted that the theme of the event underscores the indispensable role of the media in promoting transparency, accountability, and sustainable development within Nigeria’s maritime industry.
“The maritime industry is central to Nigeria’s economic growth, and ethical journalism remains a vital instrument for ensuring that developments within the sector are accurately reported and constructively engaged,” he added.
Onigbinde further called on government agencies, industry operators, and media practitioners to continue supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening maritime journalism and advancing the nation’s blue economy aspirations.
Maritime Agencies
NIMASA Urges Ethical Journalism, Stronger Media Partnership to Drive Blue Economy Growth. …As MARAN condoles agency over staff’s Death.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has called on maritime journalists to uphold ethical journalism, embrace constructive reporting, and partner with stakeholders in promoting Nigeria’s growing blue economy.
The call was made on Monday when the newly-elected executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) paid a courtesy visit to the Agency’s headquarters in Lagos.
The MARAN delegation was received by NIMASA’s Deputy Director, Public Relations, Mr. Osagie Edward, alongside senior officials of the Public Relations Department.
The visit, which was the first official engagement between the new MARAN leadership and NIMASA, also served as a platform to discuss areas of collaboration, particularly capacity building for maritime journalists, information dissemination, and support for the Federal Government’s blue economy agenda.
Earlier in his remarks, the President of MARAN conveyed the association’s condolences to NIMASA over the death of one of its staff members, Ifenyinwa, who reportedly passed away over the weekend.
The MARAN President expressed sympathy with the management and staff of the Agency and prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul, while asking God to grant her family and colleagues the strength to bear the loss.
He noted that the purpose of the visit was to further strengthen the cordial relationship that has existed between MARAN and NIMASA over the years, while seeking deeper collaboration in advancing the maritime sector through responsible and informed journalism.
According to him, there is a need for more structured capacity development programmes for maritime journalists to enhance their understanding of industry issues and improve the quality of reportage within the sector.
Responding, Osagie Edward congratulated the newly-elected executives on their emergence, describing their election as a reflection of the confidence reposed in them by members of the association.
Edward acknowledged the longstanding relationship between MARAN and NIMASA, noting that the association has remained a key stakeholder in the growth and development of the maritime industry for more than two decades.
”We have known MARAN for over 20 years, from the days when press releases were physically distributed to the present digital era. You are now leading a digital MARAN and I encourage you to build on the achievements of your predecessors,” he stated.
He assured the association of NIMASA’s readiness to continue collaborating with maritime journalists for the advancement of the industry and the country’s economy.
According to him, the media occupies a strategic position in projecting the vast opportunities available within Nigeria’s blue economy and attracting the investments needed to unlock its full potential.
”The Nigerian blue economy presents enormous opportunities. If the sector is properly projected and branded, the world will become more aware of the potentials we have and investors will come seeking opportunities. This will ultimately benefit the country,” Edward said.
He further disclosed that the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, is leading a team committed to positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime nation globally.
”As a maritime administration, the DG believes Nigeria should be a global leader in maritime administration, and we are working towards that objective. We can only achieve it by working together in the interest of the country,” he added.
On MARAN’s request for increased training opportunities, Osagie assured the association that capacity development remains a priority for NIMASA.
”Capacity building is very dear to NIMASA management. We have noted your request and discussions are already ongoing regarding training opportunities for the media. We will continue to engage because informed and constructive reporting is beneficial to the industry,” he stated.
Also speaking, Assistant Director, Public Relations, Daniel Kajo, urged members of MARAN to remain committed to the ethics of journalism and continue to promote professionalism in their reportage.
Kajo emphasized the importance of constructive criticism and balanced reporting, noting that the media remains an indispensable partner in the development of the maritime sector.
He encouraged maritime journalists to continue holding institutions accountable while ensuring that their reports are factual, objective, and geared towards national development.
The meeting ended with both parties reaffirming their commitment to strengthening collaboration in the areas of information sharing, professional development, and the promotion of Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy aspirations.
Ports Police Seek Stronger Media Collaboration to Boost Maritime Security.
New MARAN Leadership Set for Inauguration, June 23.
NIMASA Urges Ethical Journalism, Stronger Media Partnership to Drive Blue Economy Growth. …As MARAN condoles agency over staff’s Death.
CHANGE OF BATON at PTML Customs, Miko Replaces Joe Anani.
Comptroller Anani Succeeds ACG Onyeka as Tincan Customs CAC, Pledges to Build on Lofty Achievements.
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.
ANLCA Harps on Responsible Reportage, Pledges Support for New MARAN Exco,
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MARAN Seeks Strategic Partnership With NPA on Port Modernisation, Capacity Building
OGUN AREA 1 CUSTOMS Dares Smugglers, Confiscates Contrabands Worth N6.7Bn in 5 Weeks.
NPA Mourns her Ace Cameraman, Paul Erakhifu, alias “Texas”.
MARAN Elects Yinka Onigbinde As New President.
Anti-Smuggling Operations: FOU ‘A’ Customs Seizes N2.35bn Drugs, Pledges Hard Times for Smugglers.
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AMJON Honours NPA’s Anda with ‘Most Resourceful Port Manager’ Award At 2026 Conference.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoOGUN AREA 1 CUSTOMS Dares Smugglers, Confiscates Contrabands Worth N6.7Bn in 5 Weeks.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoNPA Mourns her Ace Cameraman, Paul Erakhifu, alias “Texas”.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoMARAN Seeks Strategic Partnership With NPA on Port Modernisation, Capacity Building
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoTincan Customs, NDLEA Promise Hard Times for Drug Peddlers, Seize N16,694bn worth of Cannabis Indica .
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoTantita Donates 15 Gun Boats to Nigerian Army, Navy.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoANLCA Harps on Responsible Reportage, Pledges Support for New MARAN Exco,
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoREPORTER’S DIARY: How Lagos State Task Force Made Me ‘Igbobi Landlord’ For Filming Operatives Extorting Suspected ‘Okada’ Operators In Apapa*
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoComptroller Anani Succeeds ACG Onyeka as Tincan Customs CAC, Pledges to Build on Lofty Achievements.