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
MARAN Seeks Strategic Partnership With NPA on Port Modernisation, Capacity Building
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
The newly elected executive of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has pledged to deepen collaboration with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) in support of Nigeria’s ongoing port modernisation drive and broader maritime sector development.
The commitment was made during a courtesy visit by the new MARAN leadership, led by its President, Oluyinka Onigbinde, to the General Manager, Corporate and Strategic Communications of the NPA, Ikechukwu Onyemekara, at the authority’s headquarters in Lagos.
Speaking during the visit, Onyemekara described the emergence of the new MARAN leadership as a positive development for the maritime media landscape, while commending the association’s electoral committee and outgoing leadership for conducting a peaceful and credible transition process.
According to him, the successful conduct of the election demonstrated maturity and institutional stability within the association, noting that many organisations often struggle with leadership transitions.
“What they have done is something that deserves commendation.
Some organisations would have scattered if not for a group of people who ensured stability and successfully midwifed the election process,” he said.
He further praised the association for producing professionals who have continued to distinguish themselves across different sectors of the economy, stressing that MARAN has remained a strong platform for maritime journalism and policy engagement in Nigeria.
The NPA spokesperson also highlighted the longstanding relationship between the authority and MARAN, assuring the new executive of the agency’s support and cooperation.
“I have known the president for a very long time and we have built a relationship over the years. You can rest assured that relationship will continue to grow. MARAN remains a very strategic stakeholder within the maritime industry,” Onyemekara stated.
He emphasised that the maritime sector was entering a critical phase in its history with the Federal Government’s port modernisation initiative, which he said would significantly redefine port operations, competitiveness and trade efficiency in Nigeria.
According to him, the modernisation programme is designed to position Nigerian ports for larger vessel traffic, improved cargo handling capacity and increased regional transshipment opportunities.
He noted that the growth currently being witnessed at the Lekki Deep Sea Port further validates the need for Nigeria to upgrade its port infrastructure to meet global shipping realities.
“Most vessels being built globally today are designed for large draft channels. If we fail to position ourselves appropriately, we will simply be wasting time. What we have seen in our first quarter operational statistics will become insignificant compared to what the industry can achieve after modernisation,” he explained.
Onyemekara added that Nigeria possesses the demographic and economic fundamentals needed to emerge as a major maritime hub in Africa, stressing that efficient and modern ports would naturally attract higher cargo volumes and transshipment business.
“The economy is here, the population is here, and the market is here. Once you combine these with an efficient port system, Nigerian ports can become major transshipment hubs within the region,” he said.
Drawing comparisons with developments in the aviation sector globally, he explained that countries seeking greater competitiveness were investing heavily in infrastructure expansion rather than merely cosmetic upgrades.
“We are concentrating on where it matters most, where the vessels come in. That is the essence of the port modernisation project,” he added.
The NPA spokesman also called for stronger media support in educating Nigerians on the importance of the maritime sector and the economic value of port reforms.
He stressed that maritime journalism remains critical to shaping public understanding and stakeholder acceptance of ongoing reforms, particularly the modernisation initiative.
“The knowledge of the port industry is still not where it should be. The role of journalists in educating the public is extremely important, and we are ready to support initiatives that will strengthen maritime journalism,” Onyemekara said.
He also expressed support for specialised training programmes for maritime journalists, especially in areas relating to port infrastructure, logistics, shipping economics and trade facilitation.
Responding, MARAN President, Oluyinka Onigbinde, appreciated the warm reception accorded the delegation and reiterated the association’s commitment to constructive engagement with industry stakeholders.
He further stressed the need for continuous professional training for maritime journalists, particularly as the industry enters a new era driven by infrastructure expansion and modernisation.
“Now that the industry is embarking on an ambitious programme of infrastructure expansion and modernisation, journalists also need to be trained adequately so they can properly understand and project these developments to the public,” he said.
The MARAN president noted that capacity building for journalists would not only improve reportage but also contribute to better public understanding of maritime policies, investments and reforms.
The visit forms part of the new MARAN leadership’s broader stakeholder engagement initiative aimed at strengthening industry relationships and promoting collaborative efforts towards the growth of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
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.
By Izuchukwu Ozoemena
”From humble beginnings at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) when he was employed on October 17th 1994 (same month of his birth) as a junior staff on Grade Level 3, Paul Ikherovba Erakhifu popularly known as “Texas”, by dint of diligence, determination, discipline and desire rose to the defining role of senior staff Grade Level 13 in a career marked by sterling contributions and indelible impact till his return to his maker on Friday 1st May, 2026.”
These were the words of Mr Ikechukwu Onyemekara, General Manager, Corporate Affairs of the Nigerian Ports (NPA) in a fitting tribute in memory of the Agency’s ace photographer, Paul Erakhifu, affectionately known as “Texas”, who passed on recently.
”Although we cannot determine our appointed date of birth and death, we definitely can determine how we want to be remembered. ”
The GM stated that by his uncommon commitment to his craft (Photography) and his contagious sense of humor which he generously doled out to all who came in contact with him definitely and intentionally, “Texas” set out to be remembered for good.
”Looking back, it is plausible that with his popular refrain “you have made my day” and “powerful” which were his default response to most of those who encountered him on and off duty, late “Texas” was informing us that he would make his days on earth powerful, which he did with grace and honor as can be gleaned from his professional and career trajectory.”
Describing late Paul as one who never relented on taking advantage of opportunities to pursue career growth and personal development, Mr Onyemekara recalled that “Texas” proceeded to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature in the year 2005, Master Degree in International Relations in 2012 and a Master of Science (MSc.) in Mass Communication.
”Poised to get ahead and be equal to the exigencies of his chosen craft, “Texas” trained at the London Film Academy, London Academy of Media, Film & Television and the Texas School of Photography USA in fulfillment of his lifelong admiration for the American city of Texas for which he adopted the sobriquet “TEXAS”.
He explained that the life and times of Texas validated the biblical truism that “that a man diligent in his business shall stand before kings and not mean men”.
”Indeed, “Texas” was diligent in his business and stood before kings both in Nigeria and internationally as he was widely travelled for high level official engagements in company of various chief executives of the Authority to Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, United Kingdom, USA, Japan, Ghana, Togo, Congo, Guinea, South Africa, amongst others.”
Although Texas will be sorely missed and has left a vacuum so wide and difficult to fill, the NPA image maker added, “we will take solace in the immortal words of James Wrubel that ‘no one truly dies who is remembered’.
”We continue to remember and celebrate his good deeds, exceptional sense of humor and his contribution to the advancement of knowledge as evidenced in his authorship of two books with which he lighted paths and lightened burdens. ”
MARAN Seeks Strategic Partnership With NPA on Port Modernisation, Capacity Building
OGUN AREA 1 CUSTOMS Dares Smugglers, Confiscates Contrabands Worth N6.7Bn in 5 Weeks.
NPA Mourns her Ace Cameraman, Paul Erakhifu, alias “Texas”.
MARAN Elects Yinka Onigbinde As New President.
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AMJON Honours NPA’s Anda with ‘Most Resourceful Port Manager’ Award At 2026 Conference.
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Greg Ogbeifun, Foremost Ship Owner, To Chair Event Marking the 10th Anniversary of AMSAY Conference.
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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
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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 Agencies2 weeks agoAMJON Honours NPA’s Anda with ‘Most Resourceful Port Manager’ Award At 2026 Conference.
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Customs1 week agoKaila, Seme Customs Boss, Pledges To Eradicate Trade Barriers, Visits Stakeholders To Create Awareness.
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