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‎By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
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‎In line with her commitment to constructive engagement and public advocacy as a reliable watchdog of the society, pioneer maritime journalists’ group, the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN), has reaffirmed that she would continue to monitor developments while collaborating with stakeholders to ensure that the Apapa and Tin Can commercial and industrial corridors remain safe, friendly, efficient and environmentally compliant.
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‎Making the reaffirmation in a statement in Lagos, MARAN President, Godfrey Bivbere, highlighted what the association described as “increasingly hazardous working conditions” linked to airborne particles believed to originate from flour and other processing activities.
‎The group noted that these conditions appear to be affecting port users, workers, journalists, and security personnel operating in the area.
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‎MARAN’s statement comes on the heels of the deteriorating environmental and health conditions around major industrial zones in the Apapa and Tin Can Island axis, particularly in the vicinity of facilities operated by Flour Mills Nigeria Plc, the Dangote Group, Olem Agric, BUA Foods, and Honeywell Flour Mills
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‎ MARAN observes that individuals who frequent Apapa, especially the corridor being referred to, often report symptoms such as eye irritation, coughing, and respiratory discomfort. The association is concerned about the need for urgent intervention by relevant regulatory bodies to assess the situation and ensure that industries operating in the area comply with environmental safety standards.
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‎“The Apapa and Tin-can port corridors are a vital national asset and must be maintained to the highest environmental and health standards,” the statement  read.
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‎”We are observing a significant presence of airborne dust which raises concerns about long-term health implications and infrastructure degradation.”
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‎MARAN called on the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) to conduct an independent air quality assessment in the area and compare findings with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
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‎The association also recommended the deployment of mobile medical clinics to support workers who may be experiencing health issues related to prolonged exposure to industrial pollution.
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‎In addition, MARAN urged companies operating in the area to review their environmental management practices and align with international best practices, including the use of enclosed silos and dust extraction systems.
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‎These recommendations, the group emphasized, are based on global standards for industrial hygiene geared towards promoting a safer, more sustainable working environment.
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‎The association also expressed concern over the impact of dust accumulation on recently rehabilitated roads, warning that continued exposure could accelerate infrastructure deterioration and undermine public investment.
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‎By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
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‎Nigeria’s business community have been reminded that the ban on the importation of rice through land borders remains as operational as ever because it is a measure put in place to protect local rice farmers and millers and discourage the perennial dependence on imported rice and other items that can be produced in-country.
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‎Seme Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ben Oramalugo, PhD, gave the reminder at the Seme-Krake Joint Border Command headquarters, Thursday, while briefing the press on the operational activities of the Command and spectacular seizures achieved May 14 to July 24, 2025.
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‎Between July 1 and 19, he announced, operatives of the Command successfully intercepted and seized 5 trucks laden with smuggled goods along the Lagos -Abidjan corridor following credible intelligence and coordinated enforcement.
‎”The trucks were found to contain 2, 800 bags of perboiled foreign rice, 50 kg each, and 250 bales of second -hand clothing. The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized rice and means of conveyance is N919, 500, 626.00.”

‎”Other notable seizures during the period include 898 parcels of cannabis sativa, 1,319 bags of parboiled foreign rice (50 kg each), 40 bags of sugar (50 kg each), 64 bags of flour (50 kg each), 50 cartons of Ketchup Tomato, one boat engine, 20 bales of second -hand clothing and 4 bales of used shoes.” The total DPV is N1,268,794,474.

‎He explained that the successful operations lent eloquence credence to the vigilance, resilience and doggedness of officers and men of the Area Command and the collaborative support of other security agencies especially the military.
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‎”As you are aware” the CAC continued, “the Federal Government of Nigeria has placed a ban on the importation of rice through land borders to protect our rice farmers and millers and reduce dependence on imported rice.”.
‎However, he regretted, rice millers in Nigeria have continued to face challenges due to insufficient patronage which hampers their ability to operate at full capacity.
‎The CAC emphasized that the ban is a strategic measure to boost local production and ensure that the nation’s agriculture sector survives.
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‎He regretted that some unpatriotic citizens have refused to see reasons not to engage in illegal importation which undermines the nation’s economic growth.
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‎”Let me make it clear that the Seme Area Command is not, and will never be a fertile ground for smugglers.”
‎Comptroller Oramalugo declared that the monumental seizures sends a strong message to those involved in illicit activities that Seme Border operatives are resolute, equipped and prepared to enforce the Federal Government’s fiscal policies with unwavering commitment and determination.
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‎On revenue generation, Seme Command posted N1, 593, 676,123.26 for May and June, a feat that reflects sustained measures aimed to block all revenue leakages and ensure that legitimate money due to the Federal Government is collected without compromise.
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‎In line with the government’s economic diversification agenda via non-oil exports, Seme Command facilitated the movement of 1,837 trucks, an equivalent of 116, 723.26MT of made-in- Nigeria goods. While the FOB Value is N22,368,388, 976.10, the National Export Supervision Scheme fees stood at N111,841,944.87.
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‎He appreciated the solid support and encouragement from the Comptroller-General of Customs who recently allocated 12 patrol vehicles for the Command, a move that has significantly enhanced the capacity to patrol and secure the Lagos -Abidjan corridor.
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‎”We remain committed to protecting Nigeria’s economic interests, fostering legitimate trade and ensuring the security of our borders. Together, we will continue to build a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.”
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‎By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
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‎ Even as Nigeria’s blue economy is expanding and gaining significant relevance in the present economic equation, it has been observed, without skilled manpower, the tide may not lift all ships.
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‎Dr Kevin Okonna, Acting  Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron, Akwa Ibom State, made the submission in Lagos , Friday, while speaking at the 2025 edition of the Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria, (AMJON’s) conference which took place at Airport Hotel, Ikeja.
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‎The theme of the event was “Maritime Development: Training, Ports Efficiency and Shipping Development.”

Domo Umoekpe, Head of Public Relations (left) receiving a souvenir on behalf of MAN Rector.

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‎The Rector who was represented by Domo Umoekpe, the school ‘s Head of Public Relations, re-assured that the Maritime Academy of Nigeria is committed to delivering its core mandate. However , he opined, not much would be realized to achieve the lofty objectives for carving out the Marine and Blue Economy if due attention is not given to the training of skilled manpower in all facets of the sector.
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‎Speaking on the topic ‘Ensuring Efficient Manpower in Nigeria’s Maritime Industry: Strategies and Options’, the Rector outlined numerous strategies the nautical school has in place to maximise skilled manpower development as per global standards.
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‎“We’re not just training maritime professionals, we are charting Nigeria’s course to global relevance which is the focus of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.”
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‎He said the strategies include modern maritime training.
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‎ “We provide innovative maritime programmes that satisfy national and international standards and comply with  statutory requirements.”
‎MAN, he explained, utilizes up-to-date technology for training.
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‎“We utilise up-to-date technology for training. We have simulators and other equipment for practical training, industry collaborations and  partnerships:”

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‎ On conducive learning environment, the Rector said MAN parades  an environment where students’ success, development and career opportunities thrive. Conducive hostels and medical facilities for cadets, students and staff are readily available.
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‎The Academy provides leadership and training for other maritime training institutions, training instructors from other MTIs on IMO Model Course 6.09. From time to time, he informed, the Nigerian Maritime University,  Okerenkoko in Delta State  brings its students to the Academy for Mandatory Short Course Training.
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‎The Academy, through the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy under the visionary leadership of the Honourable Minister,  His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, has been able to attract and retain industry experts as instructors.
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‎“The quality of training that we offer has attracted foreign students to the Academy,” he stated.
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