Author: Dodo Elias Denen

  • Nigeria Customs Service, NLNG Strengthen Ties, Pledge Continued Collaboration For Economic Growth

    Nigeria Customs Service, NLNG Strengthen Ties, Pledge Continued Collaboration For Economic Growth

    The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) commitment to bolstering its collaboration with Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) to enhance the Nigerian economy. This was made known during a courtesy visit by a delegation from NLNG, led by its Managing Director, Philip Mshelbila, to the NCS Headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday.

    In his welcome address, CGC Adeniyi expressed deep appreciation for the visit, underscoring the significance of the longstanding partnership between the NCS and NLNG. He highlighted the crucial role NLNG plays in the nation’s energy sector, noting that the collaboration between the two institutions is vital for the country’s economic progress.

    “Your organisation’s contributions to our nation’s energy sector cannot be overemphasised,” Adeniyi stated. “We value the productive partnership between us and are committed to sustaining this collaboration to further our shared mandates of fostering national growth and development.”

    Adeniyi also praised NLNG’s proactive approach and dedication to compliance with customs regulations, noting that such collaboration is essential for the smooth operation of Nigeria’s trade and economic systems. He remarked, “It is commendable that your organisation not only engages with the Nigeria Customs Service when issues arise but also takes the initiative to visit us out of courtesy. This gesture signifies the mutual respect and understanding that are the bedrock of our relationship.”

    In his remarks, NLNG Managing Director, Philip Mshelbila, expressed gratitude to the CGC and his team for their warm reception. He reaffirmed NLNG’s commitment to maintaining a strong relationship with the NCS, recognising the critical role the Service plays in facilitating trade and ensuring the smooth operation of NLNG’s activities.

    “At NLNG, we recognise the Nigeria Customs Service’s vital role in facilitating trade and ensuring the smooth operation of our activities,” Mshelbila said. “Our relationship has been one of mutual benefit, and we are committed to continuing our work together to promote the economic well-being of Nigeria.”

    Mshelbila further expressed NLNG’s appreciation for the support received from the NCS, emphasizing that the visit was a testament to NLNG’s desire to deepen its collaboration with the Customs Service, which he believes is key to national development.

    The meeting concluded with an exchange of souvenirs, symbolising the goodwill and mutual respect that underpin the relationship between the Nigeria Customs Service and Nigeria LNG Limited.

  • CISLAC Condemns Police Allegations Against NLC, Raises Concerns Over Attempts To Silence Labour

    CISLAC Condemns Police Allegations Against NLC, Raises Concerns Over Attempts To Silence Labour

    The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has expressed deep concern over what it describes as “desperate attempts” to silence the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) following allegations brought against the union’s leadership. In a strongly worded statement, CISLAC condemned the recent police actions, which it sees as an effort to undermine the rights and freedoms of Nigerian workers.

    CISLAC recalled that on August 7, 2024, heavily armed security personnel unexpectedly surrounded the NLC’s headquarters, commonly known as Labour House, in Abuja. The siege came shortly after the NLC’s National Executive Council meeting, where members had criticized the heavy-handed tactics used by security forces during the #EndBadGovernance protests.

    The organization highlighted the alarming development in which the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, was summoned by the Office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Intelligence Response Team (IRT). Ajaero is required to appear on August 20, 2024, to answer allegations ranging from “criminal conspiracy, terrorism financing, treasonable felony, subversion, and cybercrime.”

    CISLAC emphasized that while it does not oppose legitimate police investigations, such inquiries must be transparent and free from political manipulation. The organization stressed that the integrity of both the NLC and the police force is at stake, warning that anything less than a credible investigation would further erode public trust in Nigeria’s security agencies.

    The statement also criticized the government’s failure to effectively address the activities of known criminals, such as terrorist financiers and kidnappers, while security forces have allegedly targeted peaceful protesters with excessive force. CISLAC noted that recent incidents, such as the kidnapping of the Emir of Gobir and the inability of the police to apprehend the culprits, raise serious concerns about the priorities and effectiveness of Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies.

    Furthermore, CISLAC expressed disappointment that police officers, who are also victims of poor governance, are being used to suppress legitimate protests. The organization warned that this could severely damage the international reputation of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, suggesting that such actions might be viewed as attempts to stifle civil liberties.

    CISLAC called on President Tinubu to take immediate action to protect civil space and prevent further damage to Nigeria’s image abroad. The organization also urged non-state actors, including journalists and civil society organizations, to remain vigilant against potential attempts by desperate politicians to frame them or undermine their credibility.

    The statement was signed by Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC/Transparency International Nigeria, who reiterated the organization’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

  • BMATT Hands Over Counter Terrorism Training Village To 81 Division Training School

    BMATT Hands Over Counter Terrorism Training Village To 81 Division Training School

    The British Military Advisory Training Team (BMATT) has officially donated a state-of-the-art Counter Terrorism and Counter Insurgency Training Village to the 81 Division Nigerian Army (NA) Training School in Owode, Ogun State. The facility, aimed at enhancing the practical training of soldiers in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations, was commissioned on August 20, 2024.

    During the commissioning ceremony, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, represented by the Chief of Training (Army), Major General Sani Mohammed, praised the initiative. He emphasized the positive impact of the long-standing collaboration between the Nigerian Army and BMATT in critical areas such as Counter Improvised Explosive Device (IED) training, Special Forces development, and Basic Infantry Training. General Mohammed expressed optimism that the new facility would significantly modernize the Division’s training processes and facilities.

    The British Deputy High Commissioner to Lagos, Mr. Jonny Baxter, also delivered remarks at the event, highlighting the importance of the training village and other capacity-building efforts for the Nigerian Army. He stated that these efforts are essential in preparing troops for deployment in Counter-Terrorism and Counter-Insurgency (CTCOIN) operations.

    In his welcome address, Brigadier General OB Davies, the 81 Division Training Officer, underscored the importance of training in enhancing troop professionalism. He noted that the training village, which includes seven buildings, accommodation areas, a dedicated training area, a market, and a perimeter fence, would provide students with practical, hands-on experience that complements their classroom learning.

    The event was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division NA, Major General Farouk Umar Mijinyawa, and Brigadier Martin Leach from the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence, among other senior officers from the Army Headquarters and 81 Division.

    The ceremony featured a demonstration drill by students of the Division Training School, the official commissioning of the training village, the presentation of souvenirs, and group photographs to commemorate the occasion.

    Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 81 Division Nigerian Army, issued the official statement on August 21, 2024.

  • NN Destroys 14 Illegal Refineries, 9 Boats, Large Quantities of Stolen Crude Oil In Niger Delta

    NN Destroys 14 Illegal Refineries, 9 Boats, Large Quantities of Stolen Crude Oil In Niger Delta

    The Nigerian Navy has intensified its efforts to combat crude oil theft in the Niger Delta, achieving significant milestones throughout August 2024 under Operation DELTA SANITY.

    This operation, initiated in January 2024 by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, aims to curb the rampant theft of crude oil and bolster Nigeria’s oil production.

    In August alone, the Navy made several critical breakthroughs in its surveillance and interdiction efforts. On August 9, a major illegal refinery site, along with five metal drums and several pipes, was destroyed at Dumbe camp and Atuo general area in Bayelsa State. The offensive continued with the demolition of another illegal refinery site in Ataba Community, Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State on August 12.

    Further operations on August 14 led to the destruction of three illegal refinery sites, five refining ovens, three wooden boats, and the recovery of substantial quantities of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil in Brass, Bassambari, and Nembe axis of the Creeks in Bayelsa State. On August 17, the Navy dismantled four wooden boats, a speed boat used for smuggling stolen products along Odioma/Botokiri Creek in Bayelsa State, and another illegal refinery site along the Ekwoke, Sobiekiri, and Ataba area of Bonny Channel in Rivers State. A massive illegal refinery with a capacity of two million liters per day was also obliterated along the Ogoloma-Bakana waterways in Rivers State on the same day.

    The crackdown continued on August 19 with the destruction of an illegal refinery site equipped with storage tanks, a pumping machine, and a wooden boat laden with stolen crude oil in the Awoye Riverine community, Illaje Local Government Area, Ondo State. The Navy’s campaign culminated on August 21 with the demolition of another illegal refinery site, two wooden boats, five dug-out pits, and numerous drums containing stolen crude oil in Otumara Creek, Warri, Delta State.

    The effectiveness of Operation DELTA SANITY is underscored by the sustained 100 percent terminal factor recorded by the Trans Niger and Trans Escravos Pipelines. As of August 14, 2024, national crude oil production stood at 1.658 million barrels per day, according to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC).

    The Nigerian Navy remains committed to eradicating crude oil theft in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive and will continue to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime environment to enhance national crude oil production.

  • NNS WEY Hosts Inaugural 5KM Walk, Aerobics Exercise

    NNS WEY Hosts Inaugural 5KM Walk, Aerobics Exercise

    The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) WEY held its first-ever “Commander NNS WEY 5KM Walk and Aerobics Exercise” on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at the Nigerian Navy Sports Complex in Navy Town, Ojo, Lagos. The event, designed to enhance the fitness levels of officers, personnel, and their families residing in Navy Town, saw active participation despite the intermittent rain and damp weather.

    The 5KM walk and accompanying aerobics session underscored the commitment of NNS WEY to the physical well-being and health of its officers, promoting work-life balance and discipline within the naval community. Commodore MM Braimah, the Commander of NNS WEY, emphasized that the fitness initiative was conceived with the vision of keeping officers and their families fit while fostering stronger communal bonds among them.

    Speaking at the event, Commodore Braimah announced plans to make the fitness program a regular occurrence, with a dedicated day each month to ensure the continued well-being of those living in the barracks. He highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy and disciplined naval force, which is integral to the operational readiness of the Nigerian Navy.

    Commodore Braimah also discussed the broader administration of the NNS WEY command, which oversees ten barracks, with Navy Town being the largest. He revealed that, with the approval of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, efforts have been made to revamp Navy Town’s infrastructure in line with standard procedures. This includes the development of 15 housing projects that will provide quality accommodation for 285 naval ratings and the planned rehabilitation of the administrative block scheduled for next year.

    The successful event and ongoing infrastructure improvements reflect NNS WEY’s commitment to the welfare and fitness of its personnel, ensuring they are well-prepared to meet the demands of their service.

  • Fidelity Bank Affirms Commitment To Data Protection, Strong Corporate Governance

    Fidelity Bank Affirms Commitment To Data Protection, Strong Corporate Governance

    Leading financial institution in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc, has assured its customers of unwavering commitment to upholding the highest level of ethical standards in all dealings with customer data.

    The assurance comes amid allegations by the Nigerian Data Protection Agency (NDPA) against the bank relating to data breach.

    While reiterating its commitment to strong corporate governance, Fidelity Bank, in a statement signed by its Divisional Head, Brand & Communications, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, maintained that it has conducted its services with highest ethical standards by ensuring full compliance with extant laws on data protection.

    Giving a breakdown of its dealings with the NDPC since it received a letter of the alleged data breach, the bank stated that “on April 30th, 2023, we received a notice of investigation from the Nigerian Data Protection Agency (NDPA), now the Nigerian Data Protection Commission (NDPC). The investigation was in respect of a complaint from [name has been withheld to protect the identity of the complainant] who claimed that [name withheld] details were used to open an account in the bank without [name withheld] consent.

    “Based on this notice, we conducted an internal investigation into the circumstances around the claim and discovered as follows:

    “An account opening request was received online in the name of [name withheld], and an email was sent to the email address attached to the request informing them about this.

    “In compliance with our Data Protection policy, accounts created online without full documentation are not allowed to be operational and are closed after 30 days if the outstanding documents are not provided to authenticate the identity of the person seeking to open the account.

    “In compliance with our data protection laws, the account was not allowed to be operational as the passport photograph and BVN were not provided.

    “The account was immediately placed on “Post No Debit” status as the applicant was expected to complete the account opening process by providing the outstanding documents for verification within 30 days. This was not done, and the account was eventually closed.

    “On May 2nd, 2023, we responded to the NDPC that the bank did not violate any law because there was no data breach and that the account opening process was not completed. On our part, we carried out due diligence by immediately blocking the account and subsequently closing the account when we did not receive the outstanding documents.

    “At no point in the process was the account ever operational.

    “On July 7th, 2023, we were invited for a Pre-Action meeting with NDPC. During the meeting, we restated our position as earlier communicated to them in our letter dated May 2nd.

    “However, despite our explanation and evidence provided to support our claim, the agency informed us that they had reached a conclusion to impose a penalty on the bank.

    “On 5th December of 2023, we got a letter from NDPC demanding we pay a ‘remedial fee’ of N250 million within 21 days.

    “We immediately commenced another round of engagements with the Commission as we were convinced. We had not breached any extant law or regulation.

    “While discussions were still ongoing with the NDPC, we received another letter on the 20th of August demanding that we now pay N555.8m naira.

    “As a responsible financial organization with a history of strong corporate governance standards, we remain committed to the due process of the law, and we wish to assure all our customers of our unwavering commitment to upholding the highest level of ethical standards in all our dealings with customer data.

    “Our commitment to strong corporate governance has earned us local and international recognition, including the prestigious CG+ award. This is the highest rank under the Corporate Governance Rating System (CGRS) of the Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX), which evaluates listed companies against established best practices and standards.

    “As a bank, we remain in discussions with the NDPC over an amicable resolution to this matter.”

  • Unity Bank Promotes Digital Literacy, Youth Empowerment Innovation

    Unity Bank Promotes Digital Literacy, Youth Empowerment Innovation

    Unity Bank Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment and digital innovation by hosting a high-impact webinar focused on the role of digital technology in sustainable development. The event, held as part of the bank’s ongoing initiatives to support the digital economy, attracted participants from across Nigeria’s Telecommunications, Media, and Technology (TMT) ecosystem, including startups, fintech players, and content creators.

    The webinar featured prominent Nigerian technology leaders, including Mr. Gbolahan Salami, Senior Vice President of Growth, Product, and Strategy at WakaNow, and Mr. Micheal Ogundare, CEO and Co-founder of Crop2Cash. Both speakers provided valuable insights on how digital technology can empower the next generation and drive inclusive economic growth in Nigeria.

    Unity Bank’s Head of Strategy and Innovation, Mr. Ibukun Coker, highlighted the bank’s dedication to empowering Nigerian youth through various initiatives. He emphasized the importance of bridging the digital divide and equipping young people with the necessary skills to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital economy. “Empowering the youth through digital technology is key to unlocking sustainable development in Nigeria,” Coker said. “At Unity Bank, we are committed to driving initiatives that ensure our youth are well-positioned to harness technology for positive change and economic progress.”

    The webinar also served as a platform for participants to engage directly with industry experts, many of whom left the event with renewed optimism about their ability to leverage digital technology for personal and societal advancement.

    In addition to the webinar, Unity Bank has been actively involved in other youth-focused initiatives. The bank recently partnered with SkillPaddy in the “Count Her In” tech program, which aims to empower over 1,000 women with software engineering training. As part of this initiative, Unity Bank provided full sponsorship to 40 young girls, enabling them to receive specialized training in IT skills. This effort was part of the bank’s activities to commemorate International Women’s Day 2024 and is intended to bridge talent supply gaps while helping young women launch careers in the tech industry.

    Unity Bank’s ongoing efforts to support digital literacy and youth empowerment underscore its broader mission to foster sustainable development and create opportunities for young Nigerians to succeed in the digital economy.

  • Operation SAFE DOMAIN III: A Strategic Leap for West African Maritime Security

    Operation SAFE DOMAIN III: A Strategic Leap for West African Maritime Security


    The West African maritime domain, once plagued by piracy, illegal fishing, and trafficking, witnessed a significant milestone with the launch of Operation SAFE DOMAIN III on August 5, 2024. Spearheaded by the Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) Zone E, this operation marked a renewed commitment to securing the region’s waters, reflecting the strategic collaboration among the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), member nations, and international partners.

    *Strengthening the Blue Economy*

    The operation, themed “Protecting the Blue Economy of ECOWAS Zone E through Maritime Security Collaboration,” emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding maritime resources. Navy Commodore Aniedi A. Ibok, Director of MMCC Zone E, set the tone during the launch ceremony, highlighting the persistent threats of sea robbery, piracy, and illegal activities that have long hindered economic growth in the region. The initiative is part of a broader strategy rooted in the ECOWAS Integrated Maritime Strategy (EIMS), which aims to establish a comprehensive maritime security framework across West Africa.

    Since its inception, Operation SAFE DOMAIN has made significant strides in reducing maritime crime. Reported piracy incidents have plummeted from 49 in 2018 to just two in 2023, a testament to the effectiveness of the coordinated efforts by ECOWAS, regional navies, and international allies. This decline not only enhances security but also fosters economic stability, enabling the region’s blue economy to flourish.

    *A Multi-National Effort*

    The third iteration of the operation saw the deployment of a robust task force comprising naval vessels, helicopters, UAVs, and special forces teams from Benin, Nigeria, Togo, and Niger. Over the course of five days, these units conducted extensive maritime patrols, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions across 105,746 square nautical miles, covering territorial waters, contiguous zones, and exclusive economic zones (EEZ) of the Zone E member states.

    The operation’s success hinged on the seamless coordination among the participating forces. Rear Admiral MB Hassan, who represented the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, at the launch, underscored the significance of such joint efforts in transforming the Gulf of Guinea from one of the world’s most dangerous waters into a safer maritime environment. The transition from international sponsorship to full ownership by Zone E member states further demonstrated the region’s commitment to maritime security.

    *Operational Achievements and Challenges*

    Throughout the operation, multiple naval units carried out surveillance and boarding inspections, ensuring compliance with maritime regulations. Key exercises, such as anti-piracy interdictions and anti-IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing operations, were successfully executed, demonstrating the enhanced capabilities of the participating navies. The integration of advanced surveillance technology, including UAVs and helicopters, played a pivotal role in real-time intelligence gathering, enabling the swift identification and tracking of vessels of interest.

    However, the operation was not without its challenges. Initial communication issues and technical disruptions with satellite links posed significant hurdles. Despite these setbacks, the use of alternative communication channels and the resilience of the task force ensured that the operation’s objectives were met.

    *Looking Ahead: The Future of Maritime Security*

    As Operation SAFE DOMAIN III drew to a close on August 9, 2024, the debrief by Capt. Idongesit Udoessien, Commanding Officer of DB ABUJA and Officer in Tactical Command (OTC), highlighted the operation’s successes and the lessons learned. He emphasized the need for continued investment in advanced surveillance technology and regular joint exercises to maintain and improve the region’s maritime security capabilities.

    Looking to the future, Commodore Ibok reassured stakeholders that the assets deployed would continue patrolling their respective waters, maintaining vigilance against maritime threats. The operation’s success serves as a precursor to the next phase, Operation SAFE DOMAIN IV, slated for launch in March 2025, which will build on the achievements and lessons of its predecessor.

    The launch and successful execution of Operation SAFE DOMAIN III represent a pivotal moment for West African maritime security. By strengthening regional cooperation and enhancing the capabilities of its naval forces, ECOWAS is paving the way for a more secure and prosperous future for the blue economy of Zone E. As Commodore Ibok aptly stated, “Our collective efforts today are paving the way for a safer, more secure maritime future in Zone E.”

  • NCS Seizes NGN 1.8 Billion Worth of Expired Drugs, 27,540 Machetes, Vows Continued Vigilance

    NCS Seizes NGN 1.8 Billion Worth of Expired Drugs, 27,540 Machetes, Vows Continued Vigilance

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made a significant interception at Apapa Port, seizing expired pharmaceutical products worth NGN 1.8 billion and over 27,500 machetes concealed in various containers. The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi during a press briefing on August 15, 2024, reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s health and security, vowing continued vigilance against illegal imports.

    The seized items, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of NGN 1.8 billion, include expired and controlled pharmaceutical products, as well as concealed weapons, marking a significant victory in the NCS’s ongoing battle against smuggling. Speaking at the event, the Comptroller-General highlighted the importance of due diligence in cargo examination, a key focus of the NCS’s efforts to protect the Nigerian public.

    “While our commitment to facilitating legitimate trade remains unwavering, we are equally dedicated to ensuring that any import consignment or export cargo transiting through our ports is thoroughly checked,” the Comptroller-General stated. “Our officers are living up to expectations by executing our mandate to the fullest.”

    Among the items seized were 12 containers of expired and improperly declared pharmaceutical products, including drugs that could have severe health consequences if allowed into the market. Notably, a 1x40ft container, falsely declared to contain various pharmaceutical products, was found to be filled with expired daily health supplements and other drugs, including tramadol, a substance often associated with criminal activities.

    In addition to the pharmaceutical products, two 40ft containers were found to contain a total of 27,540 pieces of cutlasses and machetes, further underscoring the potential threat posed by these illegal imports.

    The Comptroller-General praised the efforts of Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, the Customs Area Controller for Apapa Command, and his team for their diligence and effectiveness in these seizures. He urged the officers to maintain their high level of performance, noting that Apapa Command handles the highest volume of trade for the NCS and is crucial to the Service’s overall success.

    The press briefing concluded with a stern warning to port users, advising them to embrace only legitimate trade practices. The NCS, under the current leadership, remains fully committed to detecting all forms of concealment and protecting the nation’s borders from harmful imports.

    This latest operation serves as a clear message to those attempting to compromise Nigeria’s health and security through illegal trade: the NCS will continue to stand vigilant, ready to intercept and neutralize any threats.

  • CG Adeniyi Hands Over Vice-Chair Role of WCO West & Central African Region To Mali

    CG Adeniyi Hands Over Vice-Chair Role of WCO West & Central African Region To Mali

    In a significant event on August 13, 2024, Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi officially handed over the Vice-Chair position of the World Customs Organization (WCO) West and Central Africa Sub-Region to Mali’s Inspector-General of Customs, Amadou Konate. The ceremony took place at the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters.

    CGC Adeniyi highlighted the importance of the sub-region as a platform for Customs Administrations to exchange experiences and develop solutions to common challenges. He also assured that the Nigeria Customs Service would offer mentorship and support to the Malian Customs Administration, assisting them in fulfilling their mandates.

    Adeniyi elaborated on the WCO’s global framework, explaining that it unites over 184 Customs Administrations worldwide. The organization is led by an elected Secretary-General, with each of the six global regions having an elected Vice-Chair to assist in the administrative structure. He emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to revenue generation and trade facilitation, aligning with the mandates of other Customs Administrations in the region.

    Inspector-General Amadou Konate expressed gratitude to CGC Adeniyi and his team for their warm hospitality and expressed a keen interest in building strong collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service. He acknowledged the differences in administrative structures between the Malian and Nigerian Customs Services but welcomed the opportunity to learn from Nigeria’s experience.

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