Author: Dodo Elias Denen

The Acting Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Area Command, Idiroko, Comptroller Oladapo Afeni on Monday unveiled a sweeping crackdown on smuggling networks, declaring that economic saboteurs are steadily losing ground to sustained, intelligence-driven operations. Addressing journalists at the border town, he described the latest scorecard as a clear signal that the Command’s anti-smuggling offensive is gaining decisive traction.

Barely six weeks after rolling out an aggressive enforcement agenda, the Controller said the Command has delivered on its promise to confront illicit trade head-on. He stressed that officers remain resolute in safeguarding Nigeria’s economy and protecting national security from criminal cartels operating across porous border corridors.

In one of the most striking operations, Customs operatives intercepted a truck along the Agbara axis loaded with 2,539 kegs of smuggled vegetable oil, each containing 25 litres. The seizure, he revealed, followed credible intelligence indicating that the products were ferried in batches through creeks to evade detection.

Afeni recalled that this development comes on the heels of an earlier seizure of 2,090 kegs in December 2025, underscoring a persistent smuggling pattern targeting Nigeria’s local vegetable oil industry. He warned that such practices would no longer be tolerated as enforcement intensifies.

Further exposing the scale of illicit trade, the Command intercepted a Sino truck conveying 4,325 cartons of foreign spaghetti. Additional seizures include 1,204 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 545 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit, sugar, used tyres, second-hand clothing, and other contraband items.

The cumulative Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seizures, he disclosed, stands at a staggering ₦1.35 billion, an indication of both the volume of smuggling and the magnitude of revenue loss being blocked by vigilant officers.

In a demonstration of inter-agency collaboration, the Command handed over 2,547 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, estimated at over a tonne, to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). Representing the NDLEA leadership, the Deputy Commander of Narcotics, Adeyemi Ganiyu, lauded Customs for its consistency in intercepting illicit drugs.

He noted that the synergy between both agencies has significantly curtailed the inflow of narcotics, assuring that the exhibits would be properly documented and destroyed upon obtaining court approval.

The crackdown also extended to cultural preservation, as Customs intercepted and transferred two priceless antiquities to the National Commission for Museums and Monuments.

The museum curator, Femi Oye-Ikpo, commended the Command for preventing the illegal export of heritage assets, describing the recovered items as invaluable national treasures.

The Controller declared that the wave of seizures sends an unmistakable warning to smugglers unwilling to embrace legitimate trade. He emphasized that the Command’s operational environment is becoming increasingly hostile to criminal networks.

According to him, the backing of the Comptroller-General of Customs has further strengthened enforcement capacity, ensuring that illicit trade routes are systematically dismantled.

Reaffirming operational readiness, the Controller maintained that smugglers will continue to fail in their attempts to outwit Customs. He said the Command’s intelligence architecture and surveillance mechanisms have placed officers steps ahead of criminal elements.

He reiterated that border security remains paramount, especially in preventing activities capable of undermining Nigeria’s economic stability and international trade obligations.

On revenue performance, the Command recorded ₦285.65 million within the review period, surpassing the ₦259.26 million generated in the corresponding period of 2025. The increase reflects improved efficiency in baggage assessments and auction sales of seized petroleum products.

The Controller explained that revenue sources also include legitimate import and export transactions, as well as goods traded under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme.

In a notable turnaround, the Command processed 95 metric tonnes of exports valued at over ₦305.7 million Free on Board (FOB). This marks a significant leap from the zero export activity recorded during the same period last year.
He described the growth as a positive indicator of expanding trade facilitation efforts and improved compliance among exporters operating within the Command’s jurisdiction.

The Controller commended traditional rulers, host communities, and the media for their unwavering support in the fight against smuggling. He acknowledged that intelligence from local stakeholders has been instrumental in many successful operations.

He assured that Customs would continue to strengthen partnerships while enforcing government fiscal policies to promote lawful trade and economic prosperity.

Concluding the briefing, the Controller expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs and his management team for their confidence and support. He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to excellence, vigilance, and national service.

“We are partners in progress,” he declared, urging Nigerians to remain supportive as Customs sustains its offensive against smuggling and economic sabotage.

Tier-one lender, Fidelity Bank Plc, has reaffirmed its leadership in the diaspora banking sector with the successful hosting of the Fidelity Diaspora Summit 2026, a global virtual engagement designed to help Nigerians living abroad navigate evolving policies and identify credible opportunities for wealth creation in Nigeria.

The summit held virtually on Saturday, 14 March 2026, and convened Nigerians across key diaspora markets including the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and the United Arab Emirates.

“Our theme today is, “Navigating the New Tax Policy and Unlocking Investment Opportunities in Nigeria”. This subject is timely, practical, and matters to every Nigerian in the diaspora who earns, saves, owns assets or invests back home.

“It is no news that Nigerians living abroad are our strongest ambassadors. You do much more than remit funds, you carry our reputation, our enterprise, and our potential into boardrooms, hospitals, laboratories, studios, and technology hubs around the world. Many people describe the diaspora as Nigeria’s thirty-seventh state, and the description fits because of your scale and your impact”, remarked the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe,OON, during her welcome address at the webinar.

The summit, which followed a maiden edition held in 2021, featured topical presentations delivered by thought leaders across local and international markets. Delivering the keynote address, the Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Mrs. Abike Dabiri Erewa, said the role of the diaspora in national development cannot be overemphasised. She noted that diaspora Nigerians contribute across multiple spheres through skills development, investments, intellectual property, and global exposure; and she commended Fidelity Bank for convening the platform.

In another session, the Group Managing Director, Financial Derivatives Limited, Mr. Bismarck Rewane, shared insights on Nigeria’s macroeconomic outlook in a presentation titled, “2026 Economic Outlook and Economic Opportunities in Nigeria”. Partner and Leader, Tax and Regulatory Service, PwC, Mr Chijioke Uwaegbute, also provided clarity on the new tax act and its specific implications for Nigerians living abroad.

The second half of the webinar focused on investing in Nigeria and positioning for sustainable returns. Chairman, Tekedia Capital, Prof Ndubuisi Ekekwe, reinforced the need for informed participation supported by credible partners and compliant pathways, as a foundation for diaspora investors seeking durable value across asset classes and sectors in Nigeria. Tech entrepreneur and venture capitalist, Mr Ike Eze, in a presentation titled, “The Nigeria Tech Playbook, Funding Trends and Exit Strategy”, also offered a market grounded view of the technology investment landscape, and shared frameworks for approaching opportunity in Africa and Nigeria.

The two-hour session concluded with a panel discussion moderated by the event compere and Arise TV business news anchor, Mr. Rotus Oddiri.

In his closing remarks, the Executive Director and Chief Operations and Information Officer, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr Stanley Amuchie, thanked participants and panelists for an engaging summit, and restated the bank’s commitment to banking without borders. He encouraged diaspora customers to explore Fidelity Bank diaspora solutions built for their realities, including diaspora accounts that support seamless cross border banking through multi-currency options, secure authentication, dedicated support, and tools for payments and savings.

“As we round off, I encourage you to turn today’s insights into action. Ask the hard questions, seek clarity, do your due diligence, and choose partners that understand both your global context and the local terrain. Fidelity Bank is ready to be that partner”, urged Amuchie.

Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 10 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

The Bank is a 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.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has commended officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their courage, resilience and unwavering commitment in confronting terrorism, insurgency and banditry across the country.

Shaibu gave the commendation on Saturday while hosting troops serving within Abuja to a combined interfaith breaking of fast at the TA Lagbaja Banquet Hall, Nigerian Army Conference Centre and Suites, Asokoro, an event that brought together personnel observing the sacred seasons of Ramadan and Lent.

The Army Chief used the occasion to pay glowing tribute to frontline troops deployed in various operational theatres, including the North-east, North-west and North-central, acknowledging their steadfast sacrifice in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protecting citizens.

He noted that the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and Lent serves as a powerful reminder of sacrifice, discipline, patience and compassion, virtues, he said, that strongly resonate with the professional ethos of the Nigerian soldier.

According to him, many personnel observing the sacred periods continue to discharge their duties in extremely demanding operational environments, a demonstration of the deep patriotism and commitment that define the Nigerian Army.

Shaibu also emphasised the importance of leadership by example and sound administration, describing them as central pillars of his command philosophy, which prioritises troops’ welfare, family well-being, and the overall morale and preparedness of soldiers.

The Army Chief urged troops to preserve the strong bonds of comradeship that bind them together, reminding them that unity and the enduring warrior ethos remain critical to overcoming the nation’s evolving security challenges.

He further encouraged soldiers to support one another in the line of duty and to continually remember the nation’s fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in defence of the country.

Reaffirming his vision for the force, Shaibu pledged to advance the ongoing transformation of the Nigerian Army into a more professional, adaptable and combat-ready institution capable of effectively discharging its constitutional responsibilities within a joint and multi-agency security environment.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Chief of Administration (Army), Major General Isa Abdullahi, described the interfaith gathering as a symbol of unity and shared purpose among soldiers of different faiths, noting that the event reinforces fellowship, solidarity and the enduring spirit of sacrifice required both in military service and spiritual devotion.

The Executive Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Dr. Shaibu Husseini, on Thursday received the management of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), led by its Director-General, Dr. Ola Awakan, during a courtesy visit to the Board’s headquarters in Abuja.

According to a press statement officially issued and signed by Ogbonna Onwumere, on behalf of the National Film and Video Censors Board, the development was formally communicated to the public as part of the agency’s efforts to keep stakeholders and the general public informed about its regulatory activities and policy direction within Nigeria’s film and video industry.

The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between the film and tourism sectors as part of efforts to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on petroleum and unlock new economic opportunities.

Both leaders agreed that the creative industry, particularly film, alongside tourism, holds enormous potential as the next major drivers of Nigeria’s economy. They resolved to encourage Nigerian filmmakers to deliberately showcase the country’s rich tourism destinations in their productions in order to attract both local and international tourists.

Speaking during the meeting, Husseini emphasized the strategic role of film in promoting Nigeria’s tourism assets.

According to him, “we will continue to encourage our filmmakers to tell our stories using our tourism locations. Tourism potentials in Nigeria are enormous and film provides a powerful platform to open up the sector to the world.”

Awakan, in his remarks, noted that economic diversification through tourism integrated with film remains one of the most viable alternatives for Nigeria.

“There is no better alternative to diversify the economy than through tourism embedded in film,” he said.

The NTDA Director-General also commended Husseini’s leadership at the NFVCB, recalling their long-standing professional relationship.

Awakan noted that he was among the first set of journalists who invited Husseini to appear on Television Continental (TVC) following his appointment, adding that since Husseini assumed office at the NFVCB, the narrative around the Board has changed positively.
“We know how passionate you are about the sector,” Awakan stated.

Responding, Husseini expressed admiration for the Director-General’s energy and commitment to the tourism sector since assuming office late last year. He revealed that he regularly visits the NTDA website to keep track of the agency’s activities and developments.

Awakan explained that his dedication stems from years of professional commitment to the sector.

“If I could do it when I didn’t have a platform, why should I complain now that I have one?” he said.
Husseini further advocated for deliberate policies that would strengthen inward tourism in Nigeria, while acknowledging that certain challenges still need to be addressed to fully unlock the country’s tourism potential.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of both institutions to deepen collaboration between Nigeria’s film industry and tourism sector as strategic pillars for economic growth, job creation and national development.

In a vibrant celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) reaffirmed its commitment to gender inclusivity, emphasizing that sustainable growth in Nigeria’s maritime sector depends on the active participation of women alongside men.

Speaking at the Lagos-hosted event, Director-General Dayo Mobereola called on industry stakeholders to harness the full potential of women professionals, describing the maritime sector as “a key driver of national economic development” with opportunities for career growth and leadership.

“Men cannot exist without women, and the maritime industry can only achieve sustainable growth when both genders contribute meaningfully to its development,” Dr. Mobereola stressed in his keynote address, drawing applause from a gathering of female maritime professionals from across the country.

The event highlighted NIMASA’s ongoing policies aimed at encouraging the next generation of women to explore careers in maritime logistics, shipping, and leadership, reinforcing the Agency’s vision for an inclusive and forward-looking industry.

In her welcome address, Dr. Odunayo Ani, also President of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, lauded the growing influence of women in maritime, stressing the need for innovation, compliance, and leadership through a gender-inclusive lens.

Dr. Ani urged stronger collaboration among stakeholders to expand opportunities for women across all maritime sub-sectors, noting that mentorship and capacity building remain crucial to positioning women for leadership roles in shipping, logistics, and port management.

Goodwill messages from representatives of women-focused maritime organizations praised NIMASA’s steadfast support for gender inclusion, highlighting how institutional commitment has advanced the role of women across Nigeria’s maritime value chain.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation by guest speaker Dr. Titilayo Enitan-Fowokan, titled “Navigating Nigeria’s Tax Reform: Opportunities for Women in Shipping and Global Trade.” She outlined how ongoing fiscal and economic reforms are opening new avenues for women entrepreneurs and professionals within the sector.

Dr. Enitan-Fowokan encouraged women to strategically position themselves to leverage emerging opportunities, emphasizing that tax reforms, trade policies, and regulatory frameworks could create pathways for women to thrive in shipping, logistics, and international trade.

The event brought together women from various cadres within NIMASA and leaders from organizations including WISTA Nigeria, Women in Maritime Africa (WIMA), Women in Maritime of West and Central Africa (WIMOWCA), and Women in Logistics and Transport (WILAT), reflecting a united front for advancing gender equity and inclusive growth in Nigeria’s maritime industry.

The Nigerian Navy has dealt a major blow to oil thieves in Rivers State, destroying a clandestine crude oil storage site in the Bonny Area as part of the intensified Operation DELTA SENTINEL.

Following directives from the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, the operation is aimed at crippling illegal crude bunkering and safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime economic assets.

Naval sources confirmed that surveillance technology deployed by the Navy detected unusual activity in the creeks of the Opotumbi general area, leading to the discovery of hidden dug-out pits camouflaged under thick vegetation.

FOB Bonny units moved swiftly on intelligence, uncovering four dug-out pits containing 17,500 litres of suspected stolen crude oil, marking one of the largest seizures in recent operations.

In line with operational guidelines, the Navy destroyed the recovered products on-site, preventing them from reaching illegal markets and sending a strong warning to oil thieves operating along the coastline.

Captain Abiodun Abidemi Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, stressed that the success reflects the Navy’s commitment to leveraging advanced maritime surveillance and proactive patrols to stem the tide of crude oil theft.

The operation underscores enhanced inter-agency collaboration, with naval intelligence working closely with environmental and maritime security bodies to secure Nigeria’s territorial waters.

Analysts note that illegal bunkering has historically cost the nation billions of naira in lost revenue, emphasizing the strategic importance of decisive actions like Operation DELTA SENTINEL.

Vice Admiral Abbas has reiterated that the Navy will maintain continuous monitoring, rapid response drills, and strict enforcement measures to dismantle criminal networks exploiting Nigeria’s oil resources.

With operations like this, the Nigerian Navy demonstrates renewed momentum in protecting national economic interests, asserting its role as a key deterrent against maritime crimes in Nigeria’s oil-rich coastal areas.

The Ogun State Police Command has moved swiftly to quash circulating reports claiming that popular entertainer Broda Shaggi was shot in the state.

In an official statement, the Command emphasized that no such incident has been reported at any police formation across Ogun State. DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, Police Public Relations Officer, signed the press release from Eleweran, Abeokuta, stressing the importance of accuracy in public information.

The statement clarified that the Police cannot confirm that the alleged shooting occurred anywhere within its jurisdiction.
In line with their commitment to transparency and professionalism, the Command has launched investigations to verify the veracity of the reports.

Police sources confirmed that the inquiry will examine all leads, ensuring that any potential threat to public safety is promptly addressed.

Citizens are urged to rely solely on official police communication while the investigation unfolds, avoiding the spread of unverified information.

The Command reiterated its dedication to safeguarding residents and maintaining law and order across the state.

Social media speculation, according to officials, has the potential to create unnecessary panic, which the Police are actively working to prevent.

Ogun State Police concluded by assuring the public that any developments regarding Broda Shaggi or similar reports will be communicated officially and promptly.

The Nigerian Navy scored another operational success on Saturday, 14 March 2026, with the destruction of a reactivated illegal refinery site in Okolomade Community, Abua-Odual LGA, Rivers State.

The mission, led by Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) SOROH under Operation DELTA SENTINEL, was launched following credible intelligence that a previously dismantled illegal refining site had resumed operations.

According to Captain Abiodun Abidemi Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, an Anti-Crude Oil Theft (Anti-COT) team was immediately deployed to the location.

On arrival, the team confirmed that the refining oven had been reconstructed, signaling the revival of illegal operations in the community.

Further inspections uncovered additional refining equipment and storage facilities containing about 3,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO).

In line with operational protocols, all illegal infrastructure, including ovens, storage tanks, hoses, pipes, and newly acquired metal components, was swiftly destroyed on-site, crippling the operation.

The Nigerian Navy emphasized that the strike reflects the directive of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, to intensify efforts against crude oil theft and illegal bunkering nationwide.

Officials stressed that intelligence-led operations remain central to dismantling criminal refining networks and securing critical national oil assets.

Analysts note that reactivated illegal refineries pose serious environmental and economic risks, making rapid response by security agencies vital to curbing losses.

With operations like this, the Navy demonstrates sustained momentum under Operation DELTA SENTINEL, sending a clear warning to illegal operators in Nigeria’s maritime domain.

The Nigerian Navy has recorded another operational breakthrough in its renewed offensive against crude oil theft, intercepting stolen petroleum products at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) facility in Calabar, Cross River State.

The operation, conducted under the Navy’s ongoing security initiative, Operation Delta Sentinel, led to the recovery of thousands of litres of illegally siphoned petroleum products suspected to have been stolen from vessels berthed at the port.

Naval authorities disclosed that the interception followed credible intelligence indicating that some individuals were clandestinely siphoning petroleum products from ships docked within the port area.

Acting swiftly on the tip-off, personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Victory were deployed to the location, launching a targeted patrol around the Nigerian Ports Authority operational zone in Calabar.

The patrol team traced the suspicious activity to a trailer park located within the port facility, where the stolen petroleum products were reportedly being stockpiled.

However, upon sighting the approaching naval patrol team, the suspected perpetrators fled the scene, abandoning the illegally siphoned products and other items used in the operation.

The naval personnel subsequently secured the area and carried out a detailed inspection of the site to determine the scale of the illegal activity.

The inspection led to the recovery of about 3,950 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) stored in several drums and jerrycans concealed within the trailer park.

The recovered products were immediately evacuated to the naval base for documentation and further necessary action in line with existing regulations.

In a statement signed by the Director of Naval Information, Captain Abiodun Abidemi Folorunsho, the Navy reaffirmed its determination to sustain the operational momentum of Operation Delta Sentinel through intensified surveillance, aggressive patrols and intelligence-driven operations aimed at curbing crude oil theft, illegal bunkering and other acts of economic sabotage within Nigeria’s maritime domain.