Author: Dodo Elias Denen

  • NCS: Comptroller Shuaibu Assumes Leadership Of Ikeja Customs

    NCS: Comptroller Shuaibu Assumes Leadership Of Ikeja Customs

    The newly appointed Controller of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, Ikeja, Comptroller MS Shuaibu, has formally taken over command with a call for maximum cooperation and dedication from officers and men of the unit in fulfilling the anti-smuggling mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service.

    Speaking during the handover ceremony held at the Unit’s headquarters in Ikeja, Comptroller Shuaibu acknowledged the weight of the task ahead and expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs and the Almighty for the opportunity to serve.

    “We have an opportunity, as given to us by the Comptroller General, to make a difference and contribute our own quota in prosecuting the war against smuggling,” he said. “The workload ahead is enormous and can only be tackled with unity, cooperation, and commitment.”

    In his address, he appreciated the leadership of his predecessor, Comptroller Oladeji, and emphasized his intent to maintain open lines of communication for continued guidance.

    “I am taking over, but I will be calling you from time to time to learn from your wealth of experience,” he stated, acknowledging the valuable insight of the outgoing Controller.

    On his part, Comptroller Oladeji expressed confidence in his successor’s capacity to steer the Unit forward. He thanked the Comptroller General and all officers for their unwavering support during his tenure and announced his redeployment to Abuja to assume new responsibilities.

    Comptroller Shuaibu, who hails from Lafia in Nasarawa State, holds a master’s degree in Environmental Studies and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree.

    Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu solicited the support and maximum cooperation of the officers and men of the Unit to deliver on the mandates of the Service. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the service’s seven 7 Golden Rules (7Cs) to always guide the actions and decisions of officers.

    The transition marks a new phase for FOU Zone A as the unit intensifies efforts to curb smuggling and enforce trade regulations across its area of jurisdiction.

  • Onuzuruike Family Announces Passing of Matriarch, Mama Margret Chidinma Onuzuruike

    Onuzuruike Family Announces Passing of Matriarch, Mama Margret Chidinma Onuzuruike

    The Onuzuruike family of Amaogwugwu Umuhu, Umuahia North Local Government Area, Abia State, has announced the passing of their beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Late Mama Margret Chidinma Onuzuruike, who departed this life at the age of 86.

    According to a statement issued by Uchenna Onuzuruike on behalf of the family, burial arrangements for the late matriarch have been scheduled for Friday, May 2, 2025.

    Her remains will depart Express Medical Mortuary, Umunwanwa Road, Umuahia, at 9:00 a.m., and proceed to her matrimonial home in Amaogwugwu, Umuahia North LGA. A lying-in-state will take place in her husband’s compound at 9:30 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m., to be conducted by the Faith Tabernacle Congregation, Nigeria.

    Interment will follow immediately after the funeral service.

    The family has requested continued prayers and support during this time of grief.

    May her gentle soul rest in peace, Amen.

  • EASTER REFLECTION AMID CRISIS: CISLAC Condemns Deepening Insecurity, Leadership Apathy, And Calls For Urgent National Renewal

    EASTER REFLECTION AMID CRISIS: CISLAC Condemns Deepening Insecurity, Leadership Apathy, And Calls For Urgent National Renewal

    As Christians in Nigeria and across the world mark Easter—a season that symbolizes sacrifice, hope, and renewal—the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) demands an end to the nation’s growing trauma and calls for collective action against the killings of innocent Nigerians.

    Easter is meant to be a time of deep reflection, not just for individuals but for leaders as well. Yet, for millions of Nigerians, it has become a painful reminder of lives cut short, families shattered, and a country steadily descending into insecurity, economic hardship, and official indifference.

    The ongoing wave of violence—including the attacks on Logo and Gbagir communities in the Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, and the horrific massacres in Plateau State that claimed over 50 lives—paints a harrowing picture. These are not isolated incidents; they are symptoms of a much deeper crisis: a breakdown in governance and a failure of the state to protect its people. Killings in other parts of the country—including Zamfara, Katsina, Niger, and Kwara states—reinforce the fact that violence has become pervasive, and no region is immune.

    According to Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani
    Executive Director, Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) “what makes this reality even more painful is the absence of empathy and decisive leadership from the Tinubu administration. At a time when the nation is crying out for healing and direction, the president’s silence and physical absence are both unacceptable and morally troubling. Leadership is not just about holding office; it is about being present in times of peace and, more importantly, in times of crisis.

    Sadly, Nigerians are forced to watch their leader move from city to city abroad while their own communities suffer. Governance cannot be handled from a distance. National empathy cannot be replaced by press releases or social media posts. If the president cannot provide solutions, the least he can do is stand with his people. If his government cannot end the violence, it must stop pretending that everything is fine.

    Equally troubling is the government’s apparent lack of prioritization in defeating violent criminals, despite the considerable resources allocated to security. The more financial resources are pumped into the system, the more insecurity seems to escalate—raising serious concerns about the strategic will to confront and end these atrocities. Until there is clear accountability and effective deployment of resources, insecurity will continue to thrive.

    Even more worrying is the growing distraction from governance, as political actors shift focus to the 2027 elections. The race for future power is overtaking the urgent need to secure lives, manage our diversity, stabilize the economy, and foster peace. This obsession with political positioning, at a time of national emergency, is reckless and deeply irresponsible.

    Furthermore, the politicization of killings is unacceptable—regardless of religion, tribe, ethnicity, or geographical identity. A killer is a killer and must be treated as such. We must end this dangerous practice of assigning political value to human life and instead return to governance rooted in justice and equality. Until we muster the courage to confront all forms of violence with impartiality, we will continue to undermine our national unity and common humanity.

    CISLAC calls on all arms and levels of government, political leaders, and stakeholders to step back from the politics of ambition and return to the pressing business of rebuilding the nation. Nigerians are not statistics or stepping stones to power. They are citizens—people with dignity, rights, and lives that matter.

    Again, CISLAC demands an end to the misuse of security personnel for political conquest and the creation of political tensions—especially in some non-ruling party states—where certain individuals openly threaten violence to declare another illegal state of emergency.

    As we reflect on the message of Easter, we are reminded of the power of sacrifice and the promise of renewal. It is time for our leaders to rediscover the moral courage to serve with empathy, fairness, accountability, and urgency. We cannot continue on this dark and dangerous path. The blood of innocent citizens must no longer be the price we pay for government failure.

    CISLAC remains resolute in its mission to uphold democratic values, demand transparency, and hold power to account. In these trying times, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to advocating for justice, good governance, and the protection of human rights.

    We will continue to amplify the voices of the vulnerable, challenge impunity and corruption, and push for a Nigeria where leadership is rooted in responsibility—not rhetoric. The journey to national renewal demands truth, courage, and action—and CISLAC will not relent.

    Enough is enough. Nigeria deserves better.

  • Popular Bishop Pens Emotional Tribute To Chris Okafor On His Birthday

    Popular Bishop Pens Emotional Tribute To Chris Okafor On His Birthday


    A popular cleric, Bishop Irabor Wisdom Robinson says that, on the basis of what his colleague in ministry, Dr Chris Okafor has done to impact lives and expand the kingdom of God here on earth, a special day known as the “World Dr Chris Okafor Day” be dedicated to celebrate him, especially on occasions when he marks his birthdays.

    The month of April every year is usually a busy one for light-skinned celebrity cleric, Chris Okafor, founder and senior pastor of Lagos-based Grace Nation Church International as family, friends and well-wishers all over the world roll out the red carpet to thank God for using him to impact their lives in many different ways.

    Bishop Irabor, the General Overseer of Answers Assembly, Warri, Delta State is just one of many who has decided to go beyond the normal felicitations to pen a tribute he has dubbed, “Eight Birthday Notes To The Generational Prophet.”

    Bishop Irabor’s tribute essentially congratulates Dr Chris Okafor, the one he calls the “Generational Prophet” on the occasion of his birthday and thanks God for giving the world a gift that has proven to be so beneficial to humanity.

    He then goes on to list outstanding blessings he has received from Dr Okafor who he refers to as the most unassuming personality he has had to work with in his life and ministry.

    “Happy Birthday to the man who is completely different from everything his enemies told you about him. My relationship with you made me know that, you can become a bad person relating with the person people think is good for you, you can also become a good person relating with the person people think is not good for you. I found God relating with you, Dr Chris Okafor,” Bishop Irabor began.

    “Happy birthday to the man whose financial gift to me, in two separate cheques, cleared the first year school fees of both my daughters in private universities. The school fees for both was in the region of four point three million naira (N4.3million). You made me not to feel the pain of paying the first year for both of them. Apart from you and Pastor David Ibiyeomie, no mentor or senior man has ever done anything for me.

    “Happy birthday to the man who taught me how to be a father and a friend with my assistant pastors. I came for training with your pastors, and I saw how you bonded with them as a friend and a brother to them, yet they honour and respect you as a father. Only few men can combine these two aspects with a balance. I saw them respect your authority and still confess their secret battles to you for you to help them overcome. Where I came from, you don’t tell anyone your secret battles as a pastor, you will become a public ridicule.

    “Happy birthday to the man who I followed a few weeks ago to see a mentor who came from Abuja for a programme in Lagos, and in my presence you wrote a cheque of twenty million naira as a prophet offering to that mentor. Most people don’t know you even have more access to fathers in our family tree, than most of us that were raised in that family.

    “Happy Birthday to the man who practically lives a life of fasting and prayers daily. I came to do a three day training programme, and you made me too, to fast and pray with you and the pastors for all three days. At a point, I said to myself, how I wish people know you personally and privately. You are a Christian to the core. I pray for my friends. May you not first meet the enemies of your helper before meeting your helper.

    “Happy birthday to the most quietly blessed man I have ever seen. Your cathedral is about 25,000-seater, with a crowd of people gathered inside every week, and many surrendering their lives to Jesus Christ every service day. You don’t talk about it.

    “The headquarters has so many buildings, offices and event centres. You don’t talk about it. Your Lekki branch is over 50 plots of land. You don’t brag about it. You have over 400 branches home and abroad. You don’t brag about it. It was in your house last year, when I came for dinner with you, that I saw a brand new Rolls Royce and a brand new bullet-proof Land Cruiser jeep, that you have never talked about openly. Let’s not talk about your business investments in several sectors of life. The few that I know of. You are blessed, yet very quiet and humble.

    “Thank you for always allowing me to stay for free, in your ministry’s 5-Star hotel, any time I visit Lagos. I still stayed there last month for free for five days. You saved me so much, sir.

    “Happy birthday to a prophet who is a balanced teacher and a good preacher. I remember joining your service after one of the training programmes I came for. From the beginning to the end, there was no prophecy. I told you after the service, “We know you as a prophet. Why will you do a service and there is no prophecy?” You said to me, “To have a balanced church, you must know how to combine the word, prayers and prophecies. So that nothing is lacking. Today is a teaching and prayer service. If I call for prophetic service, you won’t know this is the man that just finished teaching.”

    “Happy birthday to the man who bought a massive duplex for his Resident Pastor, few minutes drive to his own house in the same estate he lives. They both live in the same estate in Lagos. According to you, “this man left all to follow me. If I don’t do this for him, it means unbelievers who do it in the secular world are better than me.”

    “On my last visit to Lagos, the private driver attached to me showed me the house on our way to see him at home. To confirm what the pastor himself already told me.

    “Thank you for being there for me and several others. I sincerely and genuinely love you. You are my brother for life. Happy birthday, sir,” he added.

  • Fidelity Bank Named “Nigeria’s Best Private Bank” at Euromoney Awards

    Fidelity Bank Named “Nigeria’s Best Private Bank” at Euromoney Awards

    Tier one bank, Fidelity Bank PLC, has been named “Nigeria’s Best Private Bank” at the prestigious Euromoney Awards 2025. The recognition was formally unveiled at the awards ceremony held recently at The Savoy in London. 

    The Euromoney Awards for Excellence are prestigious annual honors and a benchmark for excellence in the global banking and finance industry. Established by Euromoney magazine, the awards highlight outstanding performance, innovation, leadership, and service excellence across various financial sectors and regions.

    Commenting on the award, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank PLC, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe said, “We are truly honored to be recognized by Euromoney as Nigeria’s Best Private Bank. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff as well as our strong commitment to delivering premium wealth management solutions, personalized financial advisory, and superior client service to high-net-worth individuals in Nigeria and beyond.”

    The Euromoney Awards are among the most highly respected in the global financial industry. Winning such an award for its private banking business further builds on Fidelity Bank’s growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s most trusted and customer-centric financial institutions.

    According to a statement on Euromoney’s website, “The bank’s commitment to providing specialised credit solutions also sets it apart. Clients benefit from tailored lending options, including asset-backed lending, real estate financing, and customised credit facilities. These solutions are structured to support complex financial needs while ensuring flexibility and ease.”

    Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 9.1 million customers who are serviced across its 251 business offices and various digital banking channels in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. 

    The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

  • Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command Excels In Revenue Generation In The First Quarter Of 2025, Hands Over Expired Drugs To NAFDAC

    Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command Excels In Revenue Generation In The First Quarter Of 2025, Hands Over Expired Drugs To NAFDAC

    The Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command, under the esteemed leadership of Compt. EJ Edelduok has recorded an impressive achievement in revenue generation. She recently highlighted the Command’s achievements in a media briefing on April 15, 2025.

    She said that the command generated the total sum of Thirty-Eight Billion, One Hundred and Five Million, Nine Hundred and Eighty-Seven Thousand, Nine Hundred and Fifteen Naira (N38,022,972,592.00) only for the first quarter of 2025. When compared with the first quarter of 2024, which stood at Twenty-Three Billion, Six Hundred and Sixty-Eight Million, Fifty-Six Thousand, Five Hundred and Thirty-Five Naira (N23,668,056,535.00) it clearly showed a progressive difference of Fourteen Billion, Four Hundred and Thirty Seven Million, Nine Hundred and Thirty-one Thousand, Three Hundred and Eighty Naira (N14,437,931,380.00) only depicting 61% increase. She attributed the growth to the effective revenue collection strategies and the efforts of the officers and men of the command in combating smuggling and illicit trade.

    She also mentioned that the command seized Nine (9) 40-foot containers of expired drugs which contravened the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and these seized items will be handed over to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) for further action.

    Comptroller Edelduok emphasized the command’s commitment to stakeholder engagement through an open-door policy, fostering positive relationships and promoting compliance.

    Expressing gratitude, Comptroller Edelduok thanked the stakeholders and partner agencies for their collaboration and implored them to work together to move the country forward.

    Also, she appreciated the Officers and Men of the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal Command for demonstrating integrity in the fight against smuggling and illicit trade, and urged them to always adhere strictly to the rules of engagements while discharging their statutory duties.

    Furthermore, she appreciated the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and his management team for their support, motivation and the platform to excel.

    Finally, she extended her appreciation to the media for their tireless efforts in keeping the community informed and connected.

    Compt. EJ Edelduok reaffirmed that the command is dedicated to transparency, efficiency and national security in all operations.

  • HOUSE OF REPS PLEGDES SUPPORT FOR TINCAN AS ₦347 BILLION IS POSTED IN Q1

    HOUSE OF REPS PLEGDES SUPPORT FOR TINCAN AS ₦347 BILLION IS POSTED IN Q1

    The Tincan Island Port Command is pleased to report on its outstanding performance for the period covering January to March 2025. During this period, the Command has demonstrated exceptional growth, operational efficiency, and a continued commitment to safeguarding national interests.

    In a statement issued by the Customs Area Controller Frank Onyeka during the visit of the House of Representative Committee on Customs and Excise to the Command, Onyeka disclosed that the Command generated a total sum of ₦347,935,672.475.5 billion in the first quarter of 2025, marking a significant improvement compared to the same period in 2024, which saw a revenue collection of ₦303,791,379,473.67 billion. According to the Controller, the difference of ₦44,144,293,001.87 billion highlighted the remarkable growth and the effectiveness of the Command’s revenue generation strategies, reinforcing her commitment to driving economic development through improved operations and propelling a zero tolerance for revenue leakages. The Controller also noted that the revenue generated had an increase of approximately 14.54% compared to the same period in 2024.

    The first quarter collection also represents 91.2% of the total revenue target expected in the first quarter of 2025 which was given as N381,167,499,867.64 as well as 22.81% of the annual revenue target of N1,524,699,999,478.52.

    Speaking on the seizures recorded in the Command for the first quarter, Comptroller Onyeka informed the law makers that the Command recently handover of illicit drugs to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) which included a combined total of 1,863 packets of Cannabis Indica, weighing 931.25 kilograms, and 97 packets of Crystal Methamphetamine, all discovered in 2x20ft containers with a total street value of over ₦8,053,125,000.00

    According to the Area Controller, these achievements underscore the Command’s dedication to combating illegal activities and ensuring that national security is upheld.

    With regards to stakeholders’ engagement, Comptroller Onyeka disclosed that Tincan maintains an excellent working relationship with cross sections of critical stakeholders, ranging from Customs Licensed Agents, Shipping companies executives, the Armed Forces and Para-Military agencies, as well as civil society organizations. He revealed that these collaborative efforts have played a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiency, security, and the overall safety of the Port. Continuing, he said that these regular meetings, joint operations, and knowledge-sharing initiatives have further strengthened our collective ability to address security concerns and boost trade facilitation.

    In the area of Capacity building, the Area Controller said the Command has recognized the importance of continuous professional development for her officers and men. He added that as part of our commitment to fostering a highly skilled and ethical workforce, the Command had organized a series of training programs in the first quarter with key topics such as integrity, emotional intelligence in the workplace, and effective inspection and clearance classification procedures. These training initiatives have empowered our officers with the necessary tools to perform their duties with the utmost professionalism, ensuring that the Port operates seamlessly and in full compliance with international standards, he said.

    In light of the successes of the first quarter, the Controller offered a firm assurance that the Command will step up its administrative and operational capacity in the upcoming quarters of 2025. The Command is fully committed to ensuring the maximum collection of revenue for the government, effectively addressing any revenue leakages, and continuing to optimize its processes. Furthermore, the Command will continue to engage proactively with stakeholders, working collaboratively to enhance the revenue profile of the Port and ensure that it plays a vital role in supporting national economic objectives.

    Comptroller Onyeka appreciated the members of the Committee for their visit, and noted that it was a testament to their commitment to National Development. He also praised the continued support of the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR psc (+) and his management team, as well as the critical stakeholders for their commitment to fostering a secure, efficient, and profitable operational environment at Tincan Island Port.

    In his response, the Chairman of the Committee Rt. Honourable Leke Abejide applauded the Command for manifesting professionalism in the revenue collection and assured them of the continued support and corporation of the Committee. He noted that the Committee has visited the Command over Six times in the last Eight, and was quite impressed with the revenue profile of the Command.

    He noted that the Committee is working assiduously to ensure that any bill relating to the Nigeria Customs Service presented before the green chamber is granted speedy hearing. He commended the CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR for the ground breaking achievements recorded since his assumption in office.

  • Nigeria Customs Service Declares B’Odogwu A Huge Successs With ₦189.5b Revenue, Achieves ₦5.6b Daily Collection

    Nigeria Customs Service Declares B’Odogwu A Huge Successs With ₦189.5b Revenue, Achieves ₦5.6b Daily Collection

    The Ports Terminal Multiservices Limited PTML) Command of Nigeria Customs Service has declared a collection of ₦189,516,818,316.92k from November 2024 to mid April 2025 using the Unified Customs Management System also known as B’Odogwu.

    Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Tenny Mankini Daniyan who said this at the first quarter briefing with senior officers and sectional heads, described the platform as a top notch technology defying it’s initial teething challenges to become a part of the service success in revenue collection and trade facilitation.

    According to SC Abdullahi Tsafe Abubakar, Customs Public Relations Officer, PTML command also made history on April 14, 2025 when it collected ₦5,612,887,374.99 which stands out as the highest daily collection ever made in its over two decades history.

    Comptroller Daniyan who attributed the successes of the command to the visionary and focused leadership of Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, said the 2025 first quarter collection indicates the sustained positive trajectory championed by the management of the service.

    From January to March 2025,the command collected ₦90,204,703,451.72 which is 38.8% higher than the ₦66,920,181,586.30 collected same period of 2024.

    According to the CAC, the success of the B’Odogwu application in PTML being the pilot phase area, is responsible for the CGC’s approval of it’s simultaneous spread and full deployment across various commands.

    On trade facilitation, he said “The command holds the number one record of fastest cargo clearance time of two hours for compliant RoRo consignments and we are committed to improving on this by making the time shorter.

    “In addition to Europe vessels coming to PTML, the port is now receiving ships from China to expand the frontiers of trade and prospect of higher revenue from increased economic activities.

    “Working in line with Time Release Study (TRS) for faster cargo clearance, we are urging all our port users to make sincere declaration and stay compliant as those are the bedrock to enjoy more benefits in trade. Anyone who fails to make sincere declaration forfeits the benefits of faster clearance ” he said.

    He reiterated the command’s uncompromising disposition towards smuggling either as concealment, under declaration , under valuation and outright false declaration disclosing that our officers are trained and prepared to detect such infractions for seizure and possible arrest of persons suspected to be behind such acts.

    The CAC also said the command is ready for higher volume of trade including the handling of imported pharmaceutical products which was recently approved by the management of the service.

  • NCS Apapa Command Collects ₦694.1b, Gets Reps’ Commendation for Efficiency

    NCS Apapa Command Collects ₦694.1b, Gets Reps’ Commendation for Efficiency

    … As Compt. Olomu Assures of Higher Revenue With B’Odogwu

    The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a staggering ₦694.1 billion in revenue for the first quarter of 2025, setting a new benchmark in the Service’s 135-year history. The figure represents a remarkable 41.8% increase from the ₦489 billion collected in the same period in 2024.

    Disclosing this during a working visit by the House of Representatives Committee on Customs, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, attributed the Command’s success to the strategic leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.

    “Under the guidance and effective supervision of the CGC, we are optimistic about surpassing last year’s total collection of ₦2.357 trillion,” Olomu stated.

    In a major milestone, the Apapa Command set a new record for the highest daily revenue collection with ₦18.9 billion generated on Friday, March 14, 2025—surpassing the previous record of ₦18.2 billion set in October 2024. Olomu described the achievement as historic and a testament to the Command’s operational efficiency.

    He emphasized the vital role of the Apapa Command in Nigeria’s economy, describing it as the country’s most significant trade gateway with the capacity to handle the highest volume of imports and exports in both West and Central Africa.

    Highlighting efforts to improve the ease of doing business, Olomu noted that the Command has leveraged digital innovations, particularly the B’Odogwu platform, which he said is gaining rapid acceptance among stakeholders and contributing immensely to trade facilitation.

    He also reported a major breakthrough in the automation of export processes, with the Apapa Command processing exports under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Guided Trade Initiative (GTI). He revealed that some Nigerian exporters have now been elevated to the status of Authorised Economic Operators (AEO), enhancing their credibility and access to global markets.

    The Area Controller further announced that the Command recently issued its first Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) under the B’Odogwu platform, calling it a significant milestone in the journey toward a fully indigenized, ICT-driven customs system.

    Chairman of the House Committee on Customs, Hon. Leke Abejide, commended Comptroller Olomu for his leadership and innovation, describing the Apapa Command as a model of productivity. He assured the CAC of the lawmakers’ continued legislative support, particularly in promoting trade facilitation through technology and global best practices.

    “We are impressed by the Command’s performance and your ability to think ahead in revenue generation and trade facilitation,” Hon. Abejide remarked.

    With the first quarter figures indicating strong momentum, Comptroller Olomu expressed confidence in the Command’s capacity to deliver even greater results in the months ahead.

  • AVM Mamman: NAFRC Commandant Partners Mrs. Onari Duke To Empower Officers With Entrepreneurial, Managerial Skills

    AVM Mamman: NAFRC Commandant Partners Mrs. Onari Duke To Empower Officers With Entrepreneurial, Managerial Skills


    In a renewed drive to empower officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces with vital post-service life skills, the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) on Monday inaugurated the 14th edition of the Middle and Senior-Level Officers’ Entrepreneurship and Management Course. The programme, held in collaboration with EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation, marks the second of four sessions scheduled for the year 2025.

    Addressing participants at the official opening ceremony, Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal BR Mamman, expressed confidence in the transformative potential of the course. He emphasized that while the training is not a pre-retirement programme, it is critical in preparing officers for the realities of post-service life.

    “This Course will equip you with the skills, mindset, and resilience needed to navigate the dynamic world of business and leadership,” AVM Mamman stated. “It aligns with our mandate to provide quality training that adequately prepares personnel for reintegration into civilian life.”

    AVM Mamman disclosed that the Centre has so far trained over 47,000 personnel from the Senior Non-Commissioned and Non-Commissioned Officers cadre, many of whom now successfully run small and medium-scale businesses across Nigeria. He added that over 200 senior officers have benefited from this course since its inception, a number expected to grow significantly in 2025 with its quarterly rollout.

    He further noted that the training covers core areas such as entrepreneurship, agriculture, business law, human resource management, and marketing. In his words, “Success in entrepreneurship is not just about a great idea, but about strategic planning, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to hard work.”

    In her keynote address, Mrs. Onari Duke, Country Director of EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation, lauded the Defence Headquarters and NAFRC leadership for their unwavering commitment to officer development. She said the collaboration reflects a national need to shift focus from traditional employment to entrepreneurship in addressing economic challenges.

    “NAFRC’s commitment to capacity building is critical in today’s entrepreneurial landscape,” she said. “This course will empower senior and mid-level officers with the skills required to succeed as entrepreneurs and managers in their post-service journeys.”

    Mrs. Duke highlighted the comprehensive curriculum for the training, which includes practical sessions, workshops, and visits to successful enterprises like Spectra Industries, Calaway Farms, Commint Buka, and Songhai Farm in Port Novo. She emphasized that the training represents a vital mindset shift for officers who have long devoted their lives to service, offering them a rare opportunity to invest in personal growth and future impact.

    Courses for senior officers include *21st Century Leadership Challenge*, *Strategic Thinking for Profitability*, *Financial Modelling and Budget Forecasting*, *Project Management*, *Conflict Resolution*, and *Corporate Governance*. Meanwhile, mid-level officers are receiving instruction in *Emotional Mastery*, *Inventory Management*, *Health and Wellness*, *Business Expansion*, and *Product Specification*.

    The Commandant officially inaugurated the course and charged participants to fully embrace the opportunity to plan, strategize, and begin building their entrepreneurial future while still in service.

    The event concluded with appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, for his support and foresight, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his enduring leadership and commitment to the welfare of military personnel.

    The initiative reinforces NAFRC’s vision of preparing service personnel for a seamless transition into impactful civilian life through entrepreneurship, innovation, and enterprise development.

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