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.
Maritime Agencies
PORTBIZNESS Celebrates Excellence in Customer Service Delivery, Holds Special Awards Night
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Popular media outfit, Portbuziness, is set to thrill the maritime and business community on Lagos come June, 2025, in an award event tagged the Distinguished Customer Service Appreciation Night.
The event is to showcase and appreciate exceptional corporate organizations and individuals who have made a mark in various fields of business endeavour.
The Award will feature a series of thought-provoking discussions and receptions to celebrate corporate organisations and individuals that are placing measurable value on people, societies and the nation in general.
In a release by James Shodiya, the Convener and MD/CEO, Portbizness, the DCS Awards & Recognitions is one unique event that will bring together brands and persons from different walks of life under one platform to examine the importance of offering quality service delivery to customers and clients under the theme: Standard & Satisfactory Service Delivery in a Challenged Economy.
The Portbizness boss stressed that the DCS Awards & Recognition is considered the Gold Standard for Corporate organisations and individuals who have gone above and beyond in offering exceptional service delivery in different areas of business.
The event, Shodiya added, will be attended by the most innovative and high-impact Corporate Organisations and nominees will be evaluated through strict observations and recommendations by authorities in various business sectors.
The event which takes place at the popular Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, will feature top brands in Telecoms, Maritime, Pharmaceuticals and Food & Beverages. Others are Transportation & Logistics, Real Estate, Hospitality, etc.
Captains of industry, Chief Executives of Companies , Government Agencies and customer service experts are expected to grace the occasion.
Gold Sponsors for the event include Trucks Transit Parks Ltd and Global Transport Policy.
Maritime Agencies
Kebbi Customs Command Introduces Health Screening, Mandatory Sports To Ensure Work-life Balance
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
In a renewed effort to promote healthy living and wellness of men and officers, a factor that contributes to operational fitness, increased productivity and morale in the workplace, the Kebbi State Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) recently took giant steps to re-introduce routine medical check-ups and mandatory weekly fitness exercises.
The first phase of the physical wellness initiative being promoted by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Chidi Chukwumeziri Nwokorie, aims to promote a work-life balance within the Service.
The programme which the CAC flagged off Thursday at the Command’s premises in Birnin Kebbi saw officers and men of the Command participating in a series of health screening and sporting activities. These included football, basketball, and table tennis all aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle among Customs officers in order to make them fit to carry out their responsibilities.
Speaking at the event, Comptroller Nwokorie reiterated the importance of regular health check-up to determine the physical fitness of men and officers. This is required for them to maintain the alertness and effectiveness
required for Customs duties. He noted that the exercise is not meant to be seen as a burden or an obligation imposed on officers. It is rather a proactive measure put in place to ensure optimal health status which impacts productivity and effectiveness.
Going forward, the Controller stated, medical examinations would be conducted fortnightly, while physical exercise sessions would be held every week without fail. The objective is to strengthen the resilience, agility, and general health of personnel tasked with enforcing Nigeria’s trade laws and combating illicit smuggling activities across the nation’s borders.
The activities concluded with officers engaging in various forms of sports and recreational games, reinforcing camaraderie and team spirit within the Command. This is essential for building a cohesive team that can work together effectively to achieve its goals.
The Kebbi Command’s renewed focus on health and physical fitness comes at a time when security agencies are under pressure to meet growing national border security expectations and anti-smuggling enforcement. By prioritizing the health and well-being of its officers, the Command is demonstrating its commitment to their success.
The Kebbi Customs Command’s initiative, observers say, serves as a model for other security agencies. By prioritizing the health and well-being of officers, agencies can improve their performance and overall effectiveness.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
For posting an impressive revenue performance, the Ogun II Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has been specifically commended with a firm pledge to address operational challenges she is grappling with.
Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, made this known, Wednesday, during a working tour of the Command Headquarters in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
In his welcome address, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Bisi Alade described the CGC’s visit as a morale booster for the command’s officers and men.
“Your presence here today Sir,” he remarked, “is not only encouraging but also a strong indication of your commitment to every arm of the Service.”
“It has uplifted the spirit of our officers and reinforced our resolve to deliver on the Service’s mandate with renewed vigour.”
Comptroller Alade disclosed that between January and April, 2025, the Ogun II Command generated a total revenue of ₦15.191 billion, representing a 40 per cent increase compared to the ₦9.165 billion recorded during the corresponding period in 2024.
The Ogun II Command, he stated, oversees three Free Trade Zones, 67 excise factories, and one bonded terminal, making it a strategic revenue-generating and industrial oversight zone within the Nigeria Customs Service architecture.
“We shall continue to remain focused, disciplined, and professional in the discharge of our duties, while aligning with the CGC’s reform agenda,” he reaffirmed
The CAC drew attention to several challenges facing the Command, including inadequate operational vehicles, medical laboratory equipment at the Command’s clinic and the need to renovate two 30-man rank-and-file quarters. Others are improved borehole facilities and the installation of a solar power system for the office complex.
In response, CGC Adeniyi commended the Command’s performance and assured that the Service Headquarters would consider the issues raised. He urged officers to prioritise continuous professional development, stressing that competence, knowledge and dedication are essential to enable them to effectively discharge the Service’s responsibilities.
The CGC also praised Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Governor of Ogun State, for leveraging the state’s strategic location as Nigeria’s industrial gateway, particularly in light of its shared border with the Republic of Benin.
“Ogun State is a strategic location in Nigeria, and the Governor is clearly repositioning the state for industrial growth,” Adeniyi remarked.
CGC Adeniyi assured the government and people of Ogun State that the Nigeria Customs Service remains a committed partner in driving the nation’s economic prosperity. He further encouraged Comptroller Alade to deepen collaboration with other security agencies and the state government to achieve
shared goals.
PORTBIZNESS Celebrates Excellence in Customer Service Delivery, Holds Special Awards Night
Kebbi Customs Command Introduces Health Screening, Mandatory Sports To Ensure Work-life Balance
CG Adeniyi Commends Ogun II Command for Massive Revenue Increase.
Container Movement To Seaports: NPA Meets With APM Terminals, Shipping Lines, for Coordination.
ANTI-SMUGGLING OPERATIONS: FOU, Zone ‘A’ Ups the Ante, Confiscates Bulletproof Vests, Cannabis Sativa,etc, worth N1.2bn
INLAND WATERWAYS SAFETY: Oyetola Flags Off 3,500 Life Jacket Distribution Campaign in Lagos.
Dangote Hits Another First, Named “Most Admired African Brand” in Addis Ababa.
NPA Secures Approval to Dredge Lekki Deepsea Port Channel To 19 Metres
Apapa Customs , International Network and NDLEA Collaborate to Confiscate Unregistered Pharmaceuticals.
Nigeria Hosts French Ambassador, Seeks Support for Her IMO Council Membership Quest.
TRADE FACILITATION: Nigeria And Benin Customs Deploy SIGMAT To Address Diversion And Fraud
Improving Ease of Doing Business: NPA Set To Clear Ports Corridor
Seme Customs Collects N847m in a month, facilitates non-oil exports valued at N16Bn
CVFF Disbursement: NIMASA Raises the Bar, Undertakes Sensitization To The Delight of Stakeholders.
NPA Debunks Corruption Allegations, Urges Media To Always Seek Clarifications.
Distribution of ‘Poisoned Rice’: Count Us Out, says Seme Customs
APFFLON Seeks Immediate Reform of CRFFN, Replacement of Registrar.
OMIS AWARDS, 2022: Greg Ogbeifun, Industry Gurus For Special Recognition.
FG Set To Re-establish National Shipping Line, To Take Advantage of $10 bn Annual Ship Charter Market.
2023 ELECTIONS：CILT Hosts Seminar on Logistics & Electoral Process
INLAND WATERWAYS OFFERS NIGERIA ALTERNATIVE REVENUE SOURCE, Says Sambo
MAN, ORON: It’s Encomiums Galore From International Seabed Authority (ISA).
MAN, Oron, Kick-starts Simulator-based Training, Commends FG, NIMASA.
MUAZU SAMBO: Showcasing Nigeria’s Maritime Potentials At The Global Arena
Photo News: Salah Celebration
Lilypond Export Command Is Meeting Expectations, Handles 70% of Nigeria’s Total Tonnage of Export Cargo, says CAC Odusanya.
PHOTO NEWS: Maritime Capacity Development
BENIN SEAPORT UPDATE: Edo State Government, Host Communities, Conduct Bidders To Inspect Project Site.
MARAN Salutes DCG Adeniyi On His Elevation As Customs Comptroller-General.
WAR AGAINST OIL THEFT: Tompolo’s Company Nabs VLCC Laden With Crude Oil
PUBLIC RELATIONS: New Image Maker Mounts the Saddle at NPA.
SIFAX GROUP: Ojeniyi Becomes Sky Capital GMD, Omajuwa Strategy Director.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoContainer Movement To Seaports: NPA Meets With APM Terminals, Shipping Lines, for Coordination.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoCG Adeniyi Commends Ogun II Command for Massive Revenue Increase.
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoPORTBIZNESS Celebrates Excellence in Customer Service Delivery, Holds Special Awards Night
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoKebbi Customs Command Introduces Health Screening, Mandatory Sports To Ensure Work-life Balance