Maritime Agencies
NNPP WARNS: No Merger Talks or Alliance, Expulsion of 16 Members Stands.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has warned anyone associating her with any form of merger or alliance for political purposes to perish the idea as it cannot be contemplated for now.
However, if in the wisdom of the party merger or alliance becomes necessary, this can only be spearheaded by Dr Boniface Aniebonam, the Founder and constitutional custodian of the instruments of registration legally approved by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
This is contained in a communique endorsed by the NNPP National Secretary, Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday and the National Publicity Secretary, Abdulrasaq Abdulsalam on behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC), the National Working Committee (NWC) and the Board of Trustees (BoT) following a high- level party leadership meeting in Lagos on Sunday, January 28, 2024.
Speaking to newsmen in Lagos, Tuesday, the party top hierarchy affirmed the superiority of its leadership over any other member.
It also ratified the expulsion of 16 members at different leadership positions in some states over what it described as gross misconduct bordering on anti-party activities.
This is more so as the personalities concerned refused to honour the invitation of the party’s disciplinary committee to clear themselves of charges misconduct levelled against them.
Those whose expulsion has been
confirmed, NNPP says, include Dr. Tosin Odeyemi (Osun State), Mr. Peter Ologunokun (Ondo State), Prince Ibrahim Adekunle, Amb. Ajadi Oguntoyinbo and Mr. Olowu Olayemi, all from Ogun State; Messrs Kazeem Badmus and Mr. Tunde Oke ( from South West), and Barr. Femi Aina (Ogun West).
Others are Alhaji Sidi Bako (Nasarawa), Mr. Solomon Chukwu (Ebonyi State), Hon. Henfort Grorip (Plateau State), Col. Geoffrey Onyejegbu (rtd), Pst. Ukachukwu and Stephen Onuigbo (all from Anambra State), and Hon. Rex Onajite Ogboru and Mr. Fred Uwangue from Delta State.
The high-level meeting also passed a vote of implicit confidence on the NNPP founder, Dr. Aniebonam, BoT Chairman, Dr. Temitope Aluko, and the National Chairman, Dr. Gilbert Agbo Major including other members of the NWC.
The leadership called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to update without delay the NNPP record as stipulated in the party’s Constitution and resolution of the NEC, NWC and BoT which states that “Dr. Gilbert Agbo Major is the National Chairman of NNPP; Comrade Oginni Olaposu Sunday is the National Secretary, and Dr. T.K.O. Aluko is the BoT Chairman.”
The political party made it clear that it has unanimously adopted and passed a resolution that the official opening of doors for new entrants and aspirants for Presidential, Governorship, Senate, House of Representatives including States Houses of Assembly and other elective positions for 2027 and states with off-circle elections from 2024 to 2027 must be conducted in accordance with the Electoral Act 2022 and Constitution of the New Nigeria People’s Party 2022, as amended.
“INEC should, with immediate effect, update the record of the New Nigeria People’s Party according to the Constitution of NNPP and resolution of the National Executive Committee, National Working Committee and Board of Trustees that Dr Gilbert Agbo Major is the National Chairman of NNPP and Comrade Oginni Olaposi Sunday is the National Secretary and Dr TKO Aluko is the Boat Chairman with reference to the Supreme Court judgement that explicitly stated that it is only the political party has the right to determine its membership, leadership, officers and candidates.”
“New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) is not in any merger or alliance talk with any other political party and whosoever discusses merger or alliances with Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the erstwhile Presidential candidate, who has been expelled from our Party, does that at his/her own risk.”
“The Original Certificate of Registration of our great party by INEC”, the communique explained, “is with the Founder of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NPP); Dr Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam and only him and his founding team members can determine discussions with anybody or political party”.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Following a keenly-contested election, Thursday, Oluyinka Onigbinde, Assistant Editor, Shipping Position Daily, emerged the new President of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN).
Out of 33 votes, Onigbinde polled 20 while his closest rival, Rev John Iwori, had 13.
The election, which witnessed active participation by members of the association, also produced other executive officers to pilot the affairs of MARAN following the dissolution of the Tunde Ayodele-led Caretaker Committee. These are Sylvanus Obasi (Vice President), Fabian Anawo (Secretary) and Amina Ojelabi (Assistant Secretary). Others are Ruth Umunnna (Treasurer), Ambrose Okehi (Financial Secretary) and Providence Ayanfeoluwa (Public Relations Officer).
The new MARAN Executive during swearing-in by Mr Leye Ajayi, the Lagos NUJ Chairman.
Speaking after swearing in the officers, Mr Adeleye Ajayi, Chairman, Lagos State Council of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), urged the newly-elected officers to conduct the affairs of the maritime journalists’ body with a deep sense of patriotism while promoting professionalism, welfare, and unity among members of the association.
Maritime Agencies
Anti-Smuggling Operations: FOU ‘A’ Customs Seizes N2.35bn Drugs, Pledges Hard Times for Smugglers.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
In the past eight weeks, the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’ of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ikeja , Lagos, intercepted narcotics and contrabands valued at over N5.5billion, thus, posting a substantial breakthrough in the sustained efforts to deal with smuggling of illicit goods and unauthorized importations.
The FOU Zone ‘A’ Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Aliyu Gambo announced this in Lagos, Tuesday, during a press conference.
Beside cocaine worth ₦2.35 billion, large quantities of 50kg bags of foreign parboiled rice equivalent of 15 trailers, petroleum products, used vehicles, and other prohibited goods were also displayed as confiscated.
During the period, he stated, the Unit carried out 473 successful interdictions, seizing 8,794 bags of 50kg foreign rice, 22 used vehicles, 328 bales of used clothing, 31,705 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), and a Mercedes-Benz vehicle valued at ₦119 million.
Also seized were 531 cartons of frozen poultry, 1,188 kegs of vegetable oil, 485 used tyres, and several cartons of spaghetti and sugar.
Comptroller Gambo Aliyu revealed that operatives at the Gbaji Customs on Seme Road intercepted a 71-year-old suspect along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor with 6.35kg of cocaine concealed in a Toyota Highlander. The drugs, comprising powdered and crystalline variants, carry an estimated street value of ₦2.35 billion.
Under a special operation code-named Operation Hawk, the unit also seized 3,340 parcels of synthetic cannabis, popularly known as “Ghanaian loud,” weighing 1,540kg. The seized narcotics were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in a formal handover ceremony during the briefing, for further investigation and prosecution.
The CAC who lamented the huge harm consumption of drugs inflicts on the Nigerian society regretted that today, many homes are broken.
”A lot of homes are broken due to drugs and the results of drug trafficking. Our mandate is to cut off the supply chain, and that is exactly what we are doing.”
He further unveiled four cylinders of mercury concealed in a vehicle along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor, describing the hazardous substance as regulated under international conventions.
The unit also recovered ₦97.7 million through Demand Notices on under-declared consignments. He requested for stronger collaboration among security agencies to confront and overcome various strategies being applied by purveyors of illicit trade networks.
Commending the synergy between the NCS and the NDLEA, Narcotics Commander, Kabiru I, K. explained that this should send a strong signal to purveyors of illicit trade that the South-West corridor is under close surveillance.
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.
MARAN Elects Yinka Onigbinde As New President.
Anti-Smuggling Operations: FOU ‘A’ Customs Seizes N2.35bn Drugs, Pledges Hard Times for Smugglers.
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.
Greg Ogbeifun, Foremost Ship Owner, To Chair Event Marking the 10th Anniversary of AMSAY Conference.
MARAN LEADERS APPRECIATION NIGHT: Iheanacho, Integrated Oil and Gas Boss, Urges Maritime Journalists To Invest in Knowledge
MARAN’s Appreciation Night for Former Presidents Showcased Pomp and Pageantry.
Tincan Port Customs Floors Smugglers, Nabs Massive Cannabis Indica Days After Pact with NDLEA.
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
NSW: Stakeholders Fear Success With Weak Commitment by Drivers and Lack of Reforms by Government.
Dantsoho, NPA MD, Attributes Maritime Sector Transformation to Reforms and Minister’s Leadership Style.
MARAN Confirms Readiness To Celebrate Past Presidents.
NATIONAL SINGLE WINDOW: MACI, Hynek Host Parley To Address Risks and Concerns.
1. EXECUTIVE PLATFORM. AMES 2024: TIME TO CHANGE GOVERNMENT ATTITUDE TOWARDS SHIPPING DEVELOPMENT IS NOW, AMES President Charges FG.
2023 ELECTIONS：CILT Hosts Seminar on Logistics & Electoral Process
APFFLON Seeks Immediate Reform of CRFFN, Replacement of Registrar.
OMIS AWARDS, 2022: Greg Ogbeifun, Industry Gurus For Special Recognition.
B’ODOGWU TRADE PORTAL: Customs Consolidates, Pilots Form ‘M’ Processing.
FG Set To Re-establish National Shipping Line, To Take Advantage of $10 bn Annual Ship Charter Market.
PHOTO NEWS: Maritime Capacity Development
Photo News: Salah Celebration
HALF YEAR, 2024: Apapa Customs Nets ₦1.024 Trillion, Records 143% Increase.
JANUARY-MAY REPORT: Seme Customs Hits N2.6bn, Facilitates ₦35.1bn Exports.
Sylvanus Ekpo, ex-Editor, Shipping World Magazine, loses Mum
Mama Theresa Enisuoh Due For Burial April 27
WAR AGAINST OIL THEFT: Tompolo’s Company Nabs VLCC Laden With Crude Oil
MAN, ORON: It’s Encomiums Galore From International Seabed Authority (ISA).
SIFAX GROUP: Ojeniyi Becomes Sky Capital GMD, Omajuwa Strategy Director.
B’Odogwu: Apapa Customs Collects ₦161b in 3 Weeks, Assures of Improvements .
-
Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoNSW: Stakeholders Fear Success With Weak Commitment by Drivers and Lack of Reforms by Government.
-
Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoDantsoho, NPA MD, Attributes Maritime Sector Transformation to Reforms and Minister’s Leadership Style.
-
Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoIhenacho, Ogbeifun, Shittu, Other Industry Heavyweights Confirm Attendance As MARAN Celebrates Past Presidents
-
Maritime Agencies1 week agoTo Attain Maritime Excellence, Conversations Must Translate Into Concrete Actions, says MAN Rector.
-
Maritime Agencies1 week agoCapt Iheanacho Underscores the Critical Role of Media As MARAN Celebrates Past Leaders.
-
Maritime Agencies6 days agoAMJON Honours NPA’s Anda with ‘Most Resourceful Port Manager’ Award At 2026 Conference.
-
Maritime Agencies1 week agoMARAN’s Appreciation Night for Former Presidents Showcased Pomp and Pageantry.
-
Maritime Agencies6 days agoNPA Targets Nigerian Ports As West Africa’s Trade Nerve Centre, Taking Advantage of AfCFTA.