Maritime Agencies
OGUN AREA 1 CUSTOMS Dares Smugglers, Confiscates Contrabands Worth N6.7Bn in 5 Weeks.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Within the past five weeks, the Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) , Idiroko, intercepted contrabands valued at over N6.777 billion
Of these were 1,759 bags of foreign parboiled rice and 10,126 parcels of Cannabis Indica of different sizes (equivalent of 4627 kg with estimated value of N5 billion). Others were 14,550 liters of PMS and several bales of second- hand clothing.
The Customs Area Controller, D.C.O.O. Afeni unveiled this at Idiroko, Tuesday, while delivering a progress report on the Command’s relentless war against economic saboteurs in the Area of Responsibility (AoR).
Afeni restated that the Command remains “a hostile environment for those who seek to undermine our economic stability.”
“We are gathered once again to provide a progress report on our relentless pursuit of economic saboteurs through our Area of Responsibility,” he said.
“The Ogun I Area Command under my leadership remains steadfast in its mission to secure our land borders, fortify the national economy, and dismantle illicit trade networks.”
He recalled that the Command had earlier handed over 2,543 parcels of cannabis sativa to the NDLEA Idiroko Special Command on March 16, noting that officers intensified operations rather than retreating after the milestone seizure.
“Since the milestone, we did not retreat nor surrender, instead, we refined our tactics and re-strategise,” Afeni stated.
Among the intercepted items were 1,759 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 2,685 kegs of vegetable oil, 14,550 litres of Premium Motor Spirit, 77 cartons of Analgin injection without NAFDAC registration, 66 bales of secondhand clothing, 858 packs of macaroni, expired food items, used vehicles, and six live pangolins already handed over to the appropriate agency.
The Customs boss disclosed that the 10,126 parcels of cannabis indica weighed about 4,627 kilograms and had an estimated street value exceeding ₦5 billion.
He warned that the proliferation of illicit drugs posed grave dangers to public health and national security.
“Cannabis Sativa/Indica, commonly known as marijuana or Indian hemp is a psychoactive drug that is derived from the cannabis plant. It has a devastating effect on the lives of its consumers, especially our youths,” he said.
“The rise in its abuses gives a great concern within the Nigerian society and a threat to our national security, due to its potential influence on criminal activities, such as armed robbery, banditry, cultism, kidnapping terrorism and other vices.”
Afeni further revealed that from January to date, the Command had intercepted 26,002 parcels of cannabis.
“This isn’t just a seizure; it’s a preventive measure. Without this intervention, our society would face a wave of drug-related crises,” he added.
The Acting Controller also highlighted the economic implications of rice smuggling, insisting that the Federal Government’s land border restriction policy was aimed at boosting local production and protecting Nigeria’s agricultural sector.
“Rice is a staple food eaten in many homes in the country. Its importation through the land borders was prohibited by the Federal Government of Nigeria to encourage local production and be self-sufficient,” he explained.
On vegetable oil smuggling, Afeni disclosed that officers intercepted a DAF truck loaded with 2,185 kegs of smuggled vegetable oil along the Shagamu Interchange/Ogere axis on May 5 following what he described as “precise intelligence patrol.”
According to him, the Command had so far seized 12,271 kegs of vegetable oil since his assumption of office.
“The heavy reliance on imported vegetable oil has a very destructive impact on our nation’s economic stability, public health, and agricultural future,” he said.
“The command under my watch is committed to upholding standards and protecting local jobs.”
Afeni also narrated the interception of a Volvo truck on May 7 carrying unregistered pharmaceuticals, expired food seasoning, rice, used clothing, footwears, handbags and vegetable oil.
Beyond anti-smuggling activities, the Ogun I Command generated ₦125.4 million between March 16 and May 12 through baggage assessment and auction of seized petroleum products.
The Command also facilitated the export of 95 metric tonnes of goods with a Free On Board (FOB) value of over ₦1 billion.
Explaining that intelligence-driven operations had reduced complaints on multiple checkpoints along trade corridors, Afeni assured legitimate traders of continued cooperation.
“Security and trade are two sides of the same coin at the Command. We are not just catching smugglers; we are clearing the path for honest businesses.” he said.
In line with the vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, he announced, the Command is deploying advanced geospatial technology as part of efforts to modernize border enforcement operations .
“This transition marks a fundamental shift from traditional patrolling to intelligence-led operations, allowing us to monitor smuggling hotspots across our Area of Responsibility,” he stated.
The Acting Controller appreciated the massive support of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, sister security agencies such as DSS, NIS, NPF, NDLEA and other stakeholders. He lauded officers and men of the Command for their contributions to the successes being recorded.
Maritime Agencies
Maritime Industry Bigwigs Pledge to Attend the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) Unity Conference.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
As the Network of Nigeria Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) unveils “Seaport Modernisation, Trade Facilitation and Revenue” as the theme of her unification conference scheduled for November 13 in Lagos , several prominent personalities in Nigeria’s maritime industry and political landscape have indicated interest to attend.
These include the former Minister of Interior, Capt. Emmanuel Iheanacho; Senator Wasiu Eshilokun; former President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Dr. Eugene Nweke; and Dr. Kayode Farinto, former Acting National President of ANLCA.
Also participating are key policymakers, heads of maritime agencies, industry leaders, legal practitioners, freight forwarders and other critical stakeholders whose voices cannot be ignored while deliberating on the future of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Barrister Temisan Omatseye, will chair the conference, while the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, will attend as Special Guest of Honour.
Renowned maritime lawyer, Barrister Emeka Akabogu, SAN, will deliver the keynote address at the event which takes place at Airport Hotel, Ikeja.
Discussions will particularly focus on ongoing reforms, infrastructure development and strategic interventions required to strengthen the maritime industry’s contribution to national economic growth.
According to Elder Dele Aderibigbe and Jerry Aguigbo, the NNMJ President and Public Relations Officer respectively, the conference will provide an avenue for constructive engagement among government representatives, maritime professionals and private-sector operators on practical measures to reposition Nigeria’s maritime industry for improved efficiency, productivity and global competitiveness.
Seaport modernisation, rehabilitation and renewal of critical port infrastructure, trade facilitation, ease of doing business, revenue optimisation and strategies for identifying and eliminating financial leakages across the maritime value chain will form key discussion points at the Unity Conference.
Participants will also examine opportunities for expanding Nigeria’s marine and blue economy, generating employment, strengthening maritime safety and security, and enhancing the competitiveness of the nation’s seaports.
The conference is expected to attract heads of government agencies, managing directors of shipping companies, terminal operators, freight forwarders, licensed customs agents and other influential stakeholders across the maritime industry.
The Unity Conference also avails stakeholders opportunity to evaluate existing government policies and reforms, identify implementation gaps and recommend sustainable solutions to improve port operations, facilitate legitimate trade, increase government revenue and unlock the vast economic potentials of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The organizers further underscored the strategic importance of maritime journalism in promoting transparency and accountability, providing credible industry analysis and sustaining informed public discourse on government policies, regulatory interventions and reforms affecting the marine and blue economy.
The NNMJ leadership expressed confidence that the conference would strengthen relationships among industry stakeholders, encourage meaningful policy engagement and reinforce collective efforts towards building a more efficient, transparent and globally competitive maritime industry.
Maritime Agencies
AMANO Advocates Rapid Growth in Nigeria’s Maritime Sector, Holds National Convention
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
As the 2026 National Convention and Stakeholders’ engagement of the Alumni of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron (AMANO) kicks off November 12 – 14, the
body has called for accelerated reforms and development in Nigeria’s maritime capacity training sector to ensure job creation for graduating cadets.
The convention will bring together maritime professionals, policymakers, regulators and shipowners, academics, cadets and other stakeholders for high-level deliberations on the future of the industry.
Speaking during a pre-event briefing in Lagos, Saturday, AMANO President, Mr. Emmanuel Maiguwa described the conference as a platform for policy alignment, innovation and practical solutions as it is more than a re+union of alumni.
This year’s convention, Maiguwa explained, is deliberately focused on moving from talk to action — with emphasis on reforms that can be implemented in maritime education, shipping, port operations, safety and blue economy development.
The convention will also provide an opportunity to introduce newly graduated cadets of MAN, Oron and their lecturers to maritime companies, institutions and stakeholders thus expanding their exposure to professional and employment opportunities.
Maiguwa had at the Academy’s 2026 Cadets Passing-Out Parade last week, urged graduands to embrace networking, professional development and mentorship as essential tools for building successful careers and invited them to the Lagos convention.
As part of its commitment to excellence, AMANO also announced cash awards of ₦150,000 each for Best HND Graduating Cadet and Best ND Graduating Cadet.
Stakeholders say the 2026 convention is coming at a critical time when Nigeria is pushing to unlock its blue economy, modernise its ports, strengthen its participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and translate maritime policies into measurable results.
The three-day event is expected to feature keynote addresses, panel sessions, technical workshops, exhibitions and networking sessions, with recommendations to be presented to government and industry for implementation.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The Nigeria Association of Women in Journalism (NAWOJ), Lagos Chapter has honoured veteran journalist, Hajia Hadiza Omowole, as Iconic Woman of the month for November.
This is contained in a release in Lagos jointly signed by Mrs Jumoke Falayi-Johnson and Mrs Anu Thomas, NAWOJ Chairperson and Secretary respectively.
Falayi-Johnson described Omowole as a true beacon of excellence, resilience and compassionate leadership, noting her selfless dedication to mentoring young journalists, empowering grassroots women and advocating gender equity..
Omowole’s tenacity, she stated, dedication to service and visionary leadership beautify the world. She described her as Mother-General whose pioneering spirit leaves indelible mark on journalism profession and society generally.
”Omowole holds Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Anthropology from University of Benin and Master’s in Media, Culture and Technology from University of Bedfordshire, UK, spanning over three-decade distinguished journalism career.
”The veteran journalist joined News Agency of Nigeria in 1992, rising steadily through editorial ranks serving as Senior Editor, Deputy Editor-in-Chief and now Managing Editor and Head of Lagos Operations,” Falayi-Johnson said.
She noted that beyond editorial leadership, Omowole served two historic terms as National President of NAWOJ from 2014 to 2020, becoming first president re-elected, championing welfare and advancement of women journalists nationwide.
Through community specialist work, counselling and initiatives supporting rural and needy women, Omowole continues to serve as an inspiring pillar of guidance for the association and media industry.
The entire NAWOJ Lagos family celebrates Omowole’s unwavering commitment, pioneering spirit and incredible service to humanity, collectively wishing her more success in journalism, leadership and humanitarian endeavours ahead.
Omowole remained actively involved in institutional engagement, public communication, youth development and advocacy for health, child development and gender equality across Nigeria.
In her remarks, NAWOJ Lagos Secretary, Mrs Anu Thomas, noted that the association proudly recognised outstanding contributions of Omowole to journalism, women empowerment and leadership development in Nigerian media landscape.
Falayi-Johnson reiterated association’s pride in celebrating Omowole, describing her enduring legacy as an inspiration for upcoming female journalists and a testament to excellence in media leadership nationwide.
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Maritime Agencies7 days agoOUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP: NAWOJ Lagos Honours Omowole, NAN’s Managing Editor.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks ago2026 World Maritime Day: Nigeria Subscribes to Safer Waterways and Excellence.
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Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoDredgers’ Body Disowns Report Alleging Extortion Against Lagos Commissioner Alebiosu, Cardoso.
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Maritime Agencies1 week agoCustoms FOU Zone ‘A’ Hits Smugglers Hard, Confiscates 23, 220 Matchettes, Other Contrabands Worth over N6.19bn.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoSCAN SUMMIT, 2026: Conversion to Earn Higher Interest Rates, the Bane of the CVFF, Omatseye says.
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Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoOyetola, Omatseye, Akabogu, Other Dignitaries To Attend Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists Unity Conference in Lagos.
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Maritime Agencies4 days agoAMANO Advocates Rapid Growth in Nigeria’s Maritime Sector, Holds National Convention
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Maritime Agencies4 days ago
Maritime Industry Bigwigs Pledge to Attend the Network of Nigerian Maritime Journalists (NNMJ) Unity Conference.