Maritime Agencies
NPA’s NEW MANAGEMENT: THE EAGERNESS TO CHANGE THE NARRATIVE?
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
There are strong indications that the new Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho is out to change the narrative in the ports regulatory agency, if anything, to justify great expectations that as an inhouse professional with deep knowledge of the system, he has no reasons whatsoever not to make a huge difference now he is at the helm.
When he mounted the saddle last July, Falcon Watch Online Daily recalls, Dr Dantsoho pledged: “As we march towards this great journey, I wish to state that our main goal is to reposition the Nigerian Ports Authority for increased productivity and greater efficiency for increased revenue generation.” Barely four months hence, stakeholders say there are reasons to believe that a new dawn may unfold for me good in the NPA.
NPA DEEPENS INTEREST IN NON-OIL EXPORTS
“Connecting Businesses, Creating Value” was the eloquent sing-song of the NPA at the 2024 edition of the Lagos International Trade Fair earlier in November.
This slogan, industry watchers say, emphasizes the readiness of the NPA to draw special attention to and encourage alternative sources of national revenue principal among which is non-oil exports that must be made to become visible, relevant and impactful in the reckoning of the business community. By this, the port industry regulator made her stand unique and sent a clear and unambiguous message that it has the promotion of non-oil exports as one of her priorities in the new leadership headed by the new Managing Director, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho.
Okon Asuquo, Principal Manager, Tariff & Billing, who led other officials on behalf of the MD, took time to go round stands to sensitize and educate members of the business community present at the Fair on NPA’s current stand on non-oil exports and the need to encourage the growth of alternative sources of national revenue for the good of the economy.
On the participation of Nigeria’s neighbours at the Fair, Mrs Eunice Mbah, one of the NPA officials observed: “The Port Autonome De Cotonou is visiting the Lagos Trade Fair for the first time to explore business ties in Nigeria, and the Management of Nigerian Ports Authority, led by Dr. Dantsoho”. She said that the NPA MD was already working assiduously to ensure the realization of the theme “Connecting Businesses, Creating Value”.
Mbah harped on the cardinal objective of Dr Dantsoho which is to ensure that Nigeria emerges the hub of port business in West and Central Africa.
EXPORT PROCESSING TERMINALS
At the 2024 International Trade Fair, the NPA MD projected the concept of her Export Processing Terminals (EPTs) already designed to function in agreement with the Nigerian Exports Promotion Council (NEPC) to avail a one-stop shop for processing and certifying export-bound cargo in quick turnaround time to make Nigerian exports competitive in the global market.
HINTERLAND CONNECTIVITY
NPA also revealed at the Fair that it is focusing on hinterland connectivity as well as creating pathways for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) to underline the relevance in the value chain.
EPTs are also being linked with Domestic export warehouses (DEWs) in synergy with the NEPC and other relevant partners.
AUTOMATION OF PROCESSES
Through the Ports Community System (PCS), NPA is vigorously pursuing full automation of processes and procedures to put in place a system for the implementation of the National Single Window (NSW), a recogniszed global strategy aimed at blocking revenue leakages while delivering the greatest value with the greatest ease. This connects all stakeholders in the trade value chain for seamless interaction.
REDEPLOYMENT OF SENIOR STAFF
When the MD recently redeployed and appointed top management staff, he stated that it was a deliberate move to place round pegs in round holes, tap from rich experience to enable the agency align with the specialized policy objectives of the new Marine & Blue Economy Ministry.
DEEP SEAPORTS
At the maiden press conference of the Lekki Deepsea Port in 2023, then Managing Director, Mohammed Bello Koko who spoke
through Ikechukwu Onyemekara, the current Head of Public Communications and Strategy,
paid special tribute to the founders of the Port, promising to work in harmony with other relevant stakeholders to achieve the dreams of the new port in the interest of Nigerian economy.
Being an industry person who appreciates the need to reap from the gains the deepsea offers has to offer, Dr Dantsoho has, as expected, keyed in, pledging to tap into the numerous benefits of the deep seaport which includes promoting the ideals of economy of scale and ease of doing business this brings to the entire system.
WORKERS WELFARE
In addition to rejigging the management structure to maximize use of experience and improve productivity, feelers from the new management of the NPA show commitment towards improving the welfare of the workforce through timely payment of emoluments made up of salaries and allowances. Training and capacity development, especially for employees who add more value in their areas of operations, is also top on the agenda to improve efficiency and ability of personnel to meet expected targets.
SYNERGY WITH SECURITY AGENCIES
Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Augustina Ogbodo who heads the Maritime Police Command at the Force Headquarters Annex in Obalende, Lagos, recently paid a courtesy visit to the NPA to seek stronger collaboration between the NPA and the Maritime Police on one hand and the larger society in the interest of improved security in the ports.
In line with the new dispensation, the NPA General Manager, Security, warmly received her on behalf of the MD and pledged maximum cooperation in the interest of the ports regulator and Nigeria’s maritime community.
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).
B’Odogwu: Apapa Customs Collects ₦161b in 3 Weeks, Assures of Improvements .
SIFAX GROUP: Ojeniyi Becomes Sky Capital GMD, Omajuwa Strategy Director.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoNSW: Stakeholders Fear Success With Weak Commitment by Drivers and Lack of Reforms by Government.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoIhenacho, Ogbeifun, Shittu, Other Industry Heavyweights Confirm Attendance As MARAN Celebrates Past Presidents
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoTo Attain Maritime Excellence, Conversations Must Translate Into Concrete Actions, says MAN Rector.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoCapt Iheanacho Underscores the Critical Role of Media As MARAN Celebrates Past Leaders.
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoAMJON Honours NPA’s Anda with ‘Most Resourceful Port Manager’ Award At 2026 Conference.
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoTincan Port Customs Floors Smugglers, Nabs Massive Cannabis Indica Days After Pact with NDLEA.
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Customs7 days agoKaila, Seme Customs Boss, Pledges To Eradicate Trade Barriers, Visits Stakeholders To Create Awareness.
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoGreg Ogbeifun, Foremost Ship Owner, To Chair Event Marking the 10th Anniversary of AMSAY Conference.