Maritime Agencies
Oyetola Opens LIMWEEK 2024, Harps On Port Efficiency and Safety
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy Minister, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola says in the maritime world, port efficiency and safety are critical components that can never be overlooked while discussing economic growth, trade and investment.
The Minister stated this in Lagos, Tuesday, while declaring open the 2024 edition of the Lagos International Maritime Week (LIMWEEK) and the Business To-Business Conference and Exhibition with the theme ‘Navigating the Future of Africa’s Marine & Blue Economy – Safety First.’
Improvement in safety and ports efficiency, he explained, top the chart on the responsibilities President Bola Tinubu handed to him to achieve as Minister.
The Minister, who was represented by Mr Chinedu Mbam, Legal Director in the Ministry, added that government was fully committed to drive the modernisation and improvement of the ports and maritime infrastructure.
By upgrading the nation’s ports to global standards, he noted, Nigeria will position herself to become a leader in international maritime trade since ports serve as gateway to prosperity.
“We understand that port efficiency and safety are not options; they are imperatives for unlocking the full potential of the blue economy. This is significant because safety remains the cornerstone upon which all maritime operations and business success rest.”
Through key safety initiatives such as the Deep Blue Project, he explained, Nigeria and, indeed the Gulf of Guinea, have achieved reasonable reduction in maritime crimes such as piracy, sea robbery and smuggling.
Mrs Sofiye Uzor (Centre) receiving the Award on behalf of Engr Greg Ogbeifun.
In his contribution, the Lagos Star Commissioner of Police acknowledged his responsibility to secure the maritime domain, including the intricate inland waterways crucial to Nigeria’s economy and Africa’s broader maritime sector. “The Gulf of Guinea, as many of us are aware of, is both a region rich in resources and a key artery for global maritime trade also faces persistent security challenges. The Nigeria Police, through its Maritime Command, has played a pivotal role in securing our maritime domain. Our mandate extends beyond merely patrolling the waterways. We work hand-in-hand with other national and international agencies to protect vital assets, combat piracy and ensure that our marine environment is safe and secure for all stakeholders.”
The Police boss who spoke through Chief Superintendent of Police Segun Falemara said as a matter of routine, the Police collaborates with NIMASA and other critical stakeholders in joint operations to reduce maritime crimes.
“The Marine Police deploys advanced surveillance techniques, leveraging human intelligence and technological solutions to monitor criminal activities along the waterways.”
“Through regional and international partnerships, we ensure our officers are well trained to address emerging maritime threats and security challenges.”
To achieve reasonable security in the Gulf of Guinea, he suggested a coordinated effort from the component littoral states and international partners.
Nigeria, he recalled, has been at the forefront of fostering regional collaboration to ensure a safer maritime environment.
“Some of these include the AGWE Project and the SWAIM SAR Project.” The AGWE Project anchored by the Interpol is a collaborative programme of five West African states aim at training, mentoring and providing equipment for boosting maritime security while SWAIM (Support to West African Integrated Maritime Security) have enhanced the search-and- rescue capabilities in the Gulf of Guinea.
“These initiatives have improved the region’s ability to swiftly respond to maritime emergencies and criminal activities, fostering safety on our waters”. He explained that the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has been invaluable in supporting Nigeria’s efforts to combat piracy and armed robbery at sea.
“Through UNODC, the Danish government has funded training programmes that have equipped our offices with Visit, Board, Search and Seizures (VIBSS) procedures in conjunction with the Nigerian Navy to combat illegal activities at sea.
On the proliferation of dangerous materials, he said that partnering with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the US International Counter-proliferation Programme, Nigeria has worked to prevent the smuggling of hazardous materials and weapons of mass destruction into the Gulf of Guinea. This is a critical step towards ensuring that the blue economy is not compromised by illicit activities that would have devastating environmental and security consequences.
The Suppression of Piracy and Other Maritime Offences Act, 2019, he said, has significantly strengthened Nigeria’s legal framework for tackling piracy and other maritime crimes. “It aligns our national laws with international frameworks and provide the necessary legal backing for prosecuting offenders in Nigeria.”
Through the Harmonized
Standard Operating Procedures (HSOPs), efforts are on to ensure that regional maritime security agencies adhere to harmonized SOPs, ensuring a “legal finish” in prosecuting maritime offenders.
Nigeria participates actively in national and regional maritime security conferences such as the Yaounde Architecture for Maritime Security which facilitates coordination between West and Central African states. Mentoring programmes including training supported by international partners such as the US and European Union have played a key role in improving Nigeria’s operational capabilities. “The Nigeria Police also contributes to the 2050 Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy (2050 AIM Strategy), comprehensive, concerted, coherent and coordinated approach that improve maritime conditions with respect to environmental and socio-economic development as well as the capacity to generate wealth from sustainable governance of Africa’s blue economy.”
The Police boss assured Nigeria’s commitment to the development of her blue economy through fostering safety and security across her maritime domain.
In his intervention from the perspective of the British Royal Navy, Commander Daniel Waskett, SO2 Marine, disclosed the UK strategy which is to establish long-term and mutually-beneficial partnerships with African nations to build on shared interests for safer, healthier and more prosperous future for all. However, like many nations committed to ensuring a free, secure global common maintenance of international rules-based order and supporting democracy, he stated, the UK is experiencing a time of increased operational demand the Royal Navy is deploying globally at a scale unprecedented for many years.
“Destroyers and Frigates are protecting shipping in the Red Sea to ensure trade can continue freely.”
Highlight of the event, among others, was the conferment of a lifetime achievement award on Engr Greg Ogbeifun, Chairman, Starzs Marine and Engineering Co Ltd.
Maritime Agencies
CGC Restates Position on Illicit Arms, Unveils Intercepted Weapons and Drugs Worth N373m
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, has restated the resolve of the Service to stop at nothing to identify, track, arrest, and prosecute every individual connected to criminal enterprises as Nigeria’s ports will never be safe havens for the trafficking of illicit weapons, narcotics or other prohibited goods.
The CGC made the vow in Lagos, Thursday, during a press conference at the Tincan Island Port Command to unveil a container bearing parts of pump-action rifles alongside the seizure of two 40-footer containers laden with cannabis-infused products concealed among imported goods.
The operations, he explained, underscore the unwavering commitment of the Customs shield Nigeria’s borders from prohibited importations that threaten national security and public health.
”On 8 July 2026, Container No. TEMU 184536/9 arrived at Tincan Island Port aboard MV VELIKA and was flagged through our intelligence-driven risk management system for enhanced monitoring. Acting on credible intelligence, officers placed the container under surveillance and subsequently subjected it to a detailed physical examination at the Customs Enforcement Station.
The examination uncovered concealed crates containing knocked-down components preliminarily identified as JoJeff pump-action rifles, which are currently undergoing detailed technical examination and inventory to determine the exact quantity and configuration recovered.”
”Investigations extended beyond the seizure. On 31 July 2026, one suspect was arrested at Migfo Bonded Terminal while attempting to facilitate the release of the container. Documentary evidence, financial records, and telecommunications analysis established his connection with the named consignee, including a ₦10,000 payment received from a company account linked to the consignee on the day of his arrest. Two suspects are currently in custody assisting investigators, while another principal suspect remains at large and is being actively pursued.”
”In a separate enforcement operation, officers intercepted two 40-foot containers conveying illicit cannabis-infused products concealed alongside two used vehicles, two used pumping generators, rolls of blue polypropylene spunbond fabric, new tubular batteries, and thunder arrester cables.
”The seizures include: 109 cartons of Delta-8 cannabis-infused pre-roll cookies (8,720 pieces; 17.44kg) valued at ₦308,792,640.
125 cartons of Delta-8 cannabis-infused gummies (740 packs; 515.2kg) valued at ₦40,700,000.
73 cartons of cannabis-infused cookies (442 packs; 309.4kg) valued at ₦24,310,000.
The combined street value of all illicit substances seized is ₦373,802,640.”
He described the interceptions as strategic and worrisome because they demonstrate the growing sophistication of transnational criminal networks who exploit legitimate trade channels to traffic illicit weapons and dangerous narcotic products. The interceptions also reaffirm the effectiveness of the Nigeria Customs Service’s intelligence-driven enforcement strategy, advanced risk profiling systems, and strong inter-agency collaboration.
CGC Adeniyi gave kudos to officers and men of the Tincan Island Port Command and the Customs Enforcement Unit for being vigilant, professional and dedicated.
He also appreciated the continued support of sister security and law enforcement agencies in safeguarding the nation.
”I assure Nigerians that the Service remains resolute in securing our borders, facilitating legitimate trade and preventing the importation of prohibited and dangerous goods. We encourage members of the public to continue providing credible intelligence to support our efforts against smuggling and transnational organised crime.”
”We will continue to keep the public informed as investigations progress and prosecutions commence.”
Maritime Agencies
Topfield College Clinches Overall Position as Customs’ WASA Sports Event ends in Lagos.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The competition which was organised by the Western Marine Command in collaboration with the Apapa Chapter of the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), saw 380 students from 10 secondary schools compete in various sporting events including football, table tennis, scrabble, basketball and chess.
Drawing a curtain on the tournament, the Customs Area Controller of the Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, said the various events competed for by the young lads showcased talent, teamwork and character building.
Beyond classroom experience, the students were given an opportunity to imbibe the art of sportsmanship, personal development and other innate potentials.
Ntadi who noted that the sports arena was established through the vision and commitment of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, whose passion for youth empowerment inspired the initiative said:
“This arena reflects the belief that investing in young people goes beyond academics. It is about nurturing character, promoting sportsmanship and creating opportunities for children to discover and develop their talents” .
The Customs Area Controller commended teachers, parents, officials and organisers for their support throughout the competition, noting that their diligent inputs led to a successful 5-day tournament.
The overall medals winner Moses Chibuike from Topfield College.
He hoped that future editions of the championship would attract more schools, more sporting events and more opportunities for young athletes.
As the competition came to a close, Topfield Secondary School swept the medals table with 107 points to emerge overall winner. Gaskiya College finished second with 43 points, while Pathfinders Path Joe School secured third position with 35 points.
Dorcas Memorial College placed fourth with 28 points, followed by El-Leanora College with 26 points. Rock Foundation College earned 18 points, GIF College recorded 15 points, Hope Springs College finished with 13 points, Cardoso College secured 10 points, while Caro Favoured College ended the tournament with nine points. Moses Chibuike of Topfield College became the overall medals winner in the personal category.
That every competitor won at least one medal during the competition, Ntadi stated, shows the students participated in games and tournaments that were inclusive.
He congratulated all 380 students for their performances and praised spectators for attending massively to cheer them up.
Speaking through his representative, Deputy Comptroller Thomas Jonah, the Acting Controller, Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command, Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun commended the Western Marine Command for providing a platform that positively engages young people.
He urged the students to remain focused and disciplined, stressing that dedication, perseverance and hard work remain essential ingredients for success in sports and life.
In his submission, Onasanya Agbolabo, the techical director of the event said the championship featured 10 sporting events involving eight private schools and two public schools.
He highlighted the impressive performances of several athletes, including Sandra Abutu in table tennis, Anita Akinbami and Zodij Blessing, noting that Sandra Abutu also distinguished herself during the football final. He commended the Western Marine Command for erecting such an impressive sporting arena for the good of not just the Command but for the populace.
Agbolabo Onasanya, Technical Director (left) and Jenmi Richard, Sports Coordinator (right).
In his remarks, the Baale of Ebute-Ibafon, Chief Kayode Hassan, who represented the Oba of Iwa Kingdom, Oba Maroof Oluwa, described the championship as one of the most impactful youth-focused programmes hosted in the community.
He thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs and the Nigeria Customs Service for bringing the competition to the area, noting that it not only engaged young people positively but also demonstrated the capacity of local communities to host quality sporting events.
The 2026 edition of the WASA competition ended with medal presentations, celebrations and renewed calls for sustained investment in youth and grassroots sports development.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
As part of the reform and modernisation agenda being championed by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Dr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, to build a transparent, technology-driven and globally competitive 21st-century Customs Service, the Port & PTML Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has commenced a sensitization programme for officers and key stakeholders ahead of the introduction of the Electronic Cargo Tracking System (ECTS).
The Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Nura Miko, announced this in Lagos , Tuesday, during a stakeholders’ workshop held at the Command.
He announced that PTML Command
was selected as the second pilot command for the nationwide implementation of the ECTS following the successful deployment of the initiative at the Apapa Area Command. He explained that the selection recognises PTML’s critical role in trade facilitation and national revenue generation.
Miko noted that the movement of cargo under transire to bonded terminals, other Customs commands, and Free Trade Zones has traditionally depended on physical escorts by Customs officers. However, increasing trade volumes have made the practice inefficient, resulting in operational delays and pressure on personnel.
He explained that the Electronic Cargo Tracking System will provide real-time GPS monitoring of cargo from its point of departure to its final destination, issue instant alerts in cases of route deviation or seal tampering, optimise manpower deployment, and strengthen revenue assurance through improved cargo monitoring.
The system is also expected to benefit stakeholders by speeding up cargo clearance, reducing demurrage costs, lowering the cost of doing business, and enhancing transparency through continuous Customs monitoring of consignments.
“This workshop is designed to familiarise stakeholders with the procedures, responsibilities, and expectations under the Electronic Cargo Tracking System,” Miko said. “I encourage everyone to support this initiative to ensure a smooth and successful implementation.”
The workshop brought together Customs officers, licensed customs agents, freight forwarders, terminal operators, and other private sector stakeholders.
Participants commended the Comptroller-General of Customs and the NCS management for advancing the digital transformation of Customs operations across the country.
CGC Restates Position on Illicit Arms, Unveils Intercepted Weapons and Drugs Worth N373m
Topfield College Clinches Overall Position as Customs’ WASA Sports Event ends in Lagos.
ECTS: PTML Customs Mounts an Awareness Campaign
AfCFTA: Nigeria, Cameroon, Benin To Establish Joint Customs Strategic Steering Committee on Beitbridge Communique.
TRANSQuest MAGAZINE @ 21: With Huge Maritime Endowments, Stakeholders Warn, Nigeria Can’t be Poor, Government Must Realign Her Priorities.
CSR: Customs CG Hosts Apapa Students in Sports, Pledges Sponsorship for Outstanding Young Athletes.
Disaster Imminent in Apapa as Widening Cracks Overtake Liverpool-Marine Road Junction. ………. Stakeholders Send SOS to Government.
Tochukwu Ezisi, NAGAFF President, Bags RATTAWU’s Logistics Excellence Award.
Oyetola Vows to Strengthen Local Capacity, Innovation, Responsible Investments As STARZS Celebrates 40th Anniversary.
NCDMB Hails STARZS @ 40, Reiterates Objectives of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act of 2010.
OPERATION WHIRLWIND: Customs Auctions 20,500 Litres Of Confiscated PMS, NMDPRA Warns Against Products Diversion.
Jumoke Oduwole, Industry, Trade and Investments Minister, Commends STARZS at 40, Tasks African Trade Ministers on AfCFTA.
Apapa Port Customs Seizes Cannabis Sativa Worth over N26.5bn
STARZS INVESTMENTS COMPANY LTD: 40 Years of Private Indigenous Initiative, Shaping Nigeria’s Maritime Future.
Starzs Group Emphasizes Sustainable Corporate Social Responsibility, Urges Government to Strengthen Education Infrastructure.
STARZS CEO Commissions School Projects, Champions Environmental Protection and Tree -Planting to Mark 40th Anniversary.
ABUJA MoU: WE FUNCTION BEHIND A MASK, says Capt Umoren
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
B’ODOGWU TRADE PORTAL: Customs Consolidates, Pilots Form ‘M’ Processing.
APFFLON Seeks Immediate Reform of CRFFN, Replacement of Registrar.
OMIS AWARDS, 2022: Greg Ogbeifun, Industry Gurus For Special Recognition.
JANUARY-MAY REPORT: Seme Customs Hits N2.6bn, Facilitates ₦35.1bn Exports.
HALF YEAR, 2024: Apapa Customs Nets ₦1.024 Trillion, Records 143% Increase.
B’Odogwu: Apapa Customs Collects ₦161b in 3 Weeks, Assures of Improvements .
PHOTO NEWS: Maritime Capacity Development
FG Set To Re-establish National Shipping Line, To Take Advantage of $10 bn Annual Ship Charter Market.
Photo News: Salah Celebration
Sylvanus Ekpo, ex-Editor, Shipping World Magazine, loses Mum
Mama Theresa Enisuoh Due For Burial April 27
Adesuwa Ladoja Becomes MD/CEO, Lagos Free Zone.
MAN, ORON: It’s Encomiums Galore From International Seabed Authority (ISA).
-
News2 weeks agoDisaster Imminent in Apapa as Widening Cracks Overtake Liverpool-Marine Road Junction. ………. Stakeholders Send SOS to Government.
-
Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoNCDMB Hails STARZS @ 40, Reiterates Objectives of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act of 2010.
-
Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoTochukwu Ezisi, NAGAFF President, Bags RATTAWU’s Logistics Excellence Award.
-
Maritime Agencies3 weeks agoOyetola Vows to Strengthen Local Capacity, Innovation, Responsible Investments As STARZS Celebrates 40th Anniversary.
-
Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoCSR: Customs CG Hosts Apapa Students in Sports, Pledges Sponsorship for Outstanding Young Athletes.
-
Maritime Agencies2 weeks agoTRANSQuest MAGAZINE @ 21: With Huge Maritime Endowments, Stakeholders Warn, Nigeria Can’t be Poor, Government Must Realign Her Priorities.
-
Maritime Agencies1 week agoAfCFTA: Nigeria, Cameroon, Benin To Establish Joint Customs Strategic Steering Committee on Beitbridge Communique.
-
Maritime Agencies1 week agoECTS: PTML Customs Mounts an Awareness Campaign