Author: Dodo Elias Denen

  • Customs College Graduates 50 Officers from Junior Course 22

    Customs College Graduates 50 Officers from Junior Course 22

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has urged young officers of the Service to embrace innovation, discipline, and resilience as they advance in their careers, stressing that the Service’s future depends on their commitment to excellence.

    Represented by the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Human Resources Development, DCG Greg Itotoh, the Customs boss gave the charge on Friday, 22 August 2025, at the graduation ceremony of 50 students of Junior Course 22 at the Nigeria Customs Command and Staff College, Gwagwalada.

    The event, held at the Ahmad Makarfi Hall, marked another milestone in the College’s mission to groom officers for higher responsibilities.

    DCG Itotoh congratulated the graduates and said their success resulted from hard work, resilience, and zeal to maintain the high level of discipline demanded by the institution.

    He urged the officers not to rest on their laurels but to apply the lessons learnt to practical outcomes in their daily assignments.

    “We can forget the harsh corrections, the restrictions, and the pain of training, but let us never forget the lessons learnt. As you return to your units, face the unknown with courage and determination, because as Customs officers, our duties are laced with challenges,” he said.

    He further reminded the officers that under CGC Adeniyi’s leadership, the Service prioritises innovation, and he encouraged them to take on tasks that improve efficiency and strengthen the Service’s global standing.

    The Commandant of the College, Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs Oluyomi Adebakin, described the occasion as “a unique day” for the institution, noting that the graduating officers had endured rigorous training focused on leadership, discipline, and professional development.

    The Junior Course was designed to prepare young officers for the growing service demands in a complex and evolving operational environment. This cohort has invested significant mental, emotional, and physical effort, and their dedication has paid off,” ACG Adebakin said.

    She added that, beyond academics, the course incorporated health checks, physical exercises, and activities that tested punctuality, teamwork, and conduct, all of which aimed to produce well-rounded officers.

    Outstanding participants were awarded in leadership, discipline, marksmanship, and academic excellence categories, underscoring the training’s overall impact.

    All 50 graduating students were also presented with certificates, signifying their successful course completion. The commandant urged them to serve as “good ambassadors” of the College as they returned to their Commands.

  • Customs, NACCIMA Strengthen Partnership on Trade Facilitation

    Customs, NACCIMA Strengthen Partnership on Trade Facilitation

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to closer collaboration with the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) to enhance trade facilitation, revenue generation, and border management.

    Adeniyi gave the assurance on Thursday, 21 August 2025, while receiving the newly elected National President of NACCIMA, Jani Ibrahim, and his management team at the Customs Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.

    Welcoming the private sector delegation, the CGC expressed appreciation for the association’s commendation and endorsement of ongoing Customs reforms.

    He noted that his administration had, from the onset, prioritised collaboration as a means of balancing revenue generation, national security, and trade facilitation.

    “When I assumed office, one of the first things I was deliberate about was the issue of collaboration. Revenue and security are important, but to succeed in both, we must also strengthen trade facilitation,” CGC Adeniyi said.

    He added, “Today, I am pleased to inform you that we are fully on course with this collaboration. In that spirit, we will dedicate special desks for your members to resolve issues regarding the implementation of our processes.”

    In his remarks, NACCIMA President Jani Ibrahim congratulated Adeniyi on his election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation Council, describing it as “a well-deserved recognition of Nigeria’s growing leadership in customs administration.”

    He also commended President Bola Tinubu’s decision to extend Adeniyi’s tenure, calling it a vote of confidence in his transformational reforms.

    Ibrahim praised Customs for reforms such as the introduction of the Authorised Economic Operator programme, deployment of indigenous digital platforms known as B’odogwu, Time-Release Studies and improvements to the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report.

    He noted that these innovations were already reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks, lowering cargo dwell time, and strengthening Nigeria’s position in global trade.

    “The private sector, through NACCIMA and the organised private sector, is fully committed to supporting Customs in achieving its mandate,” Ibrahim said.

    He added: “We strongly advocate the establishment of a Joint Technical Facilitation Committee with representatives of both NACCIMA and Customs. This will provide a framework for regular consultation and measurable progress on all areas of collaboration.”

    He stressed that such cooperation would not only reduce the cost of doing business but also position Nigeria more strategically under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

  • Fidelity Bank To Convene Strategic Panel on Export Financing At FNITCC Atlanta 2025

    Fidelity Bank To Convene Strategic Panel on Export Financing At FNITCC Atlanta 2025

    As part of its ongoing commitment to expanding Nigeria’s footprint in global trade, leading financial institution Fidelity Bank Plc has announced it will host a high-level panel session at the upcoming Fidelity Nigeria International Trade and Creative Connect (FNITCC) in Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

    Themed “Financing For Scale – Unlocking Capital For Global Export Competitiveness,” the session will take place on Friday, 19 September 2025, and will feature top executives and thought leaders from across Nigeria’s financial and entrepreneurial landscape including: Mustafa Chike-Obi, Chairman, Board of Directors – Fidelity Bank Plc and a veteran investment banker; Olasunkanmi Owoyemi, Group MD/CEO – Sunbeth Global Concept Nigeria Limited, a leading voice in agribusiness exports; Efe Ukala, Founder – ImpactHer and a champion for women-led enterprises who has empowered thousands of African female entrepreneurs through access to capital and global market linkages; and Abba Bello, Managing Director – Nigeria Export-Import Bank (NEXIM), Nigeria’s foremost export credit agency, providing critical financing and risk mitigation tools for exporters.

    “Unlocking the right kind of funding is like planting seeds for growth—without access to finance, even the most outstanding businesses and creative brands will struggle to scale, compete, and sustain themselves in global markets,” said Isaiah Ndukwe, Divisional Head, Agric. and Exports, Fidelity Bank Plc, in a media chat.

    FNITCC serves as a bridge to close this gap. The inaugural edition in London in 2022 hosted over 100 Nigerian exhibitors and 90+ speakers, attracting more than 1,000 daily visitors and culminating in deals worth approximately US$200 million. The 2023 edition in Houston raised the bar with over 160 participating businesses and closed deals including a US$40 million pre-export finance agreement for cocoa, in partnership with AFREXIM Bank and local exporter JohnVents Industries.

    The panel will address the urgent need for accessible and scalable financing solutions to boost Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness; and will explore topics such as: Financing models for SMEs and exporters, Role of DFIs and commercial banks, De-risking strategies for export ventures; and Diaspora investment opportunities.

    “These events underscore that targeted market access, paired with financing support, can launch Nigerian brands onto the global stage—delivering jobs, income, and international recognition,” Ndukwe added.

    Hosted in partnership with AFRICON—the premier gathering for global African changemakers, tastemakers, and innovators—FNITCC Atlanta will take place from 18 to 20 September 2025 at the Omni Atlanta Hotel, Centennial Park, Georgia, USA. The event is projected to attract over 3,000 participants and facilitate more than US$400 million in trade, investment, and partnership deals.

    Interested businesses and participants are encouraged to register for the conference at www.fidelitybank.ng/fnitcc.

    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.

  • Fidelity Bank Resumes International Transactions on Naira Debit Cards

    Fidelity Bank Resumes International Transactions on Naira Debit Cards

    Tier-one Lender, Fidelity Bank Plc, has announced the resumption of international transactions on its Naira Debit Cards. This recommencement gives customers the freedom to make seamless payments abroad, online, and at ATMs outside the country.

    Shedding light on the development, Ifeoma Onibuje, Divisional Head, eBanking, Fidelity Bank Plc said, “We are delighted to inform the public that Fidelity Naira Cards are now enabled for global use. This means that our travelling customers can now utilize their Naira Debit cards outside the country to shop, spend and withdraw internationally without hassles.”

    “Consequently, our customers can now spend up to $1,000 quarterly for international POS and online transactions; and withdraw up to $500 quarterly on international ATMs.”

    The announcement offers Fidelity Bank customers another way to complete international transactions, in addition to the Bank’s existing foreign currency debit and credit cards. This further reinforces Fidelity Bank’s commitment to delivering solutions that fit seamlessly into customers’ lifestyles. With Fidelity Bank’s VISA and Mastercard Naira Debit Cards, Nigerians can now enjoy effortless global access.

    Beyond payments, Fidelity VISA cardholders, one of the variants of the bank’s card offerings, also enjoy premium travel and lifestyle benefits ranging from airport lounge and spa access via the Visa Airport Companion App, to fast-track immigration lanes and 20% discounts on SIXT car rentals worldwide.

    This move reflects the bank’s commitment to provide secure, convenient, and reliable banking services that empower customers in Nigeria and beyond. The bank has deliberately made the process of getting a Fideity Naira card seamless. Customers can easily apply for their Fidelity VISA or Mastercard Naira Debit card via the Fidelity Mobile App or simply visit the nearest Fidelity bank branch to request for one and they can start transacting globally with ease.

    Ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

    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.

  • Customs, ICPC Strengthen Anti-Corruption Drive with Sensitisation Programme

    Customs, ICPC Strengthen Anti-Corruption Drive with Sensitisation Programme

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in collaboration with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), has organised a sensitisation programme for its management staff. The programme focuses on enhancing the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit (ACTU) operational effectiveness. The event took place in Abuja on 21 August 2025.

    Declaring the programme open, Deputy Comptroller-General Greg Itotoh, who represented the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, noted that fighting corruption within the Service is not a new undertaking. He emphasised that the sensitisation session was part of sustained efforts to strengthen internal controls and instil a culture of integrity across all levels of the organisation.

    “Having you here today demonstrates our resolve to fight corruption. Being with us further encourages us and strengthens that desire to enforce our Anti-Corruption initiatives that we have put in place”, he remarked.

    He added that the knowledge gained would cascade to other officers and inspire more effective service delivery. He reaffirmed that Customs, with the support of its stakeholders, would continue to fight corruption until it is completely defeated.

    In his remarks, the ICPC Chairman, Musa Aliyu, represented by Olusegun Adigun, commended the leadership of Customs for prioritising integrity and making the programme a reality.

    “Corruption remains one of the greatest impediments to national development, eroding trust, stifling economic growth and diminishing the effectiveness of governance”, he said.

    He continues, “As we engage in today’s discourse, let us remember that every act of integrity contributes to a stronger, more transparent society. Let this workshop be a catalyst for a renewed commitment, innovation and proactive engagement in the fight against corruption”.

    He urged Customs officers to remain steadfast in fostering ethical practices and called on management to continue supporting the ACTU’s work. “Every act of integrity will help reshape society,” he said.

    The programme featured paper presentations, including “Understanding the ACTU Standing Order 2023” delivered by an ICPC official, and “Preventive Strategies in Combating Corruption in Public Institutions” by Richard Bello. Both presentations highlighted the need for a proactive approach to institutional reforms and preventive measures against misconduct.

    Closing the session, the Comptroller in charge of the Customs Intelligence Unit, Emmanuel Oshoba, reiterated the Service’s determination to deepen its collaboration with ICPC, stressing that transparency and accountability remain core to its modernisation agenda.

    “We’re deeply grateful to the ACTU for initiating and championing this Programme. Your relentless effort towards promoting accountability and good governance did not go unnoticed. Thank you for being the moral compass within our institution”, he stated.

  • Customs, CDCFIB Unite to Bolster National Security

    Customs, CDCFIB Unite to Bolster National Security

    The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s enduring collaboration with agencies under the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) on Thursday, 21 August 2025, stressing that shared facilities and operational cooperation remain key pillars of partnership.

    During a courtesy visit by the CDCFIB leadership to Customs Headquarters in Abuja, CGC Adeniyi highlighted ongoing collaborations, including the use of Customs facilities by Immigration and Correctional Services personnel.

    “In Ibadan, we have a five-storey building where two floors are dedicated to Immigration and a Correctional Service detachment,” he said. “In Kano, our facilities support Immigration recruitment exercises, while in Bauchi, a wing is set aside for our colleagues. These prove that, despite structural changes, our bond remains strong. We work together and will continue to do so.”

    Earlier, CDCFIB Secretary, Major General AbdulMalik Jibril (rtd), congratulated CGC Adeniyi on his tenure extension and commended his contributions to Nigeria’s economy and security.

    “As Secretary to the Board of these four services, I consider it necessary to rekindle our relationship and strengthen synergy. Whenever the need arises, we must be able to approach one another. This visit seeks to consolidate our partnership and reinforce cooperation for national security,” he said.

    He explained that the visit aimed to deepen collaboration in training, recruitment, and shared operational support, which aligns with the federal government’s whole-of-society approach to security management.

  • Tincan Island Port Generates ₦16.4 Billion In One Day via Bodogwu System

    Tincan Island Port Generates ₦16.4 Billion In One Day via Bodogwu System

    The Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service is pleased to announce a landmark revenue collection of ₦16,411,402,227.27 on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, which was made possible through the effective deployment of the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS) known as Bodogwu.

    In a statement made available to the press on Thursday in Lagos by the Public Relations Officers of the Command, Superintendent of Customs Oscar Ivara, the Customs Area Controller Frank Onyeka was quoted as saying that this achievement is a strong indicator of the efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness of the Bodogwu system in streamlining port operations.

    According to him, the Bodogwu system has drastically improved the ability of licensed Customs agents and stakeholders to access payment platforms and complete cargo clearance processes in real-time, without unnecessary delays or administrative bottlenecks.

    He also pointed out that the Bodogwu systems has integrated all key elements of port and Customs operations under one digital interface, enabling faster processing, accurate valuation, and enhanced monitoring of cargo activities. As a result, both the Command and port users can now operate in a more predictable and efficient environment that supports Nigeria’s economic goals.

    Speaking further, Comptroller Onyeka noted that this record-breaking revenue figure is not just about numbers. It reflects the game-changing role of the Bodogwu system in modernizing port operations and further highlights the benefits of the Command continues collaboration with all relevant stakeholders, which includes terminal operators, shipping companies, licensed Customs agents, and regulatory agencies. This coordinated approach ensures that cargo clearance processes are seamless, compliant, and business-friendly.

    He reiterated that the Command remains dedicated to enhancing trade facilitation, securing revenue for national development, and supporting all port users in achieving timely and cost-effective cargo clearance.

  • CISLAC Commends EFCC for Landmark Arrest of Transnational Cybercrime Group

    CISLAC Commends EFCC for Landmark Arrest of Transnational Cybercrime Group

    The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center (CISLAC) has commended the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its recent landmark operation that led to the arrest of 792 suspects, most of whom are foreign nationals, allegedly involved in a sophisticated cryptocurrency investment and romance scam network.

    The operation, carried out on December 10, 2024, at a seven-story building in Victoria Island, Lagos, represents what CISLAC described as a major breakthrough in the fight against cybercrime in Nigeria. It also challenges the prevailing global narrative that disproportionately links Nigerians to internet fraud.

    According to the EFCC, the suspects include 148 Chinese nationals, 40 Filipinos, two citizens of Kharzartan, one Pakistani, and one Indonesian. The syndicate is believed to have recruited and trained young Nigerians to serve as local operatives, using their identities to mask the activities of the foreign masterminds behind the operations.

    Speaking on the development, CISLAC’s Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, applauded the EFCC’s efforts and professionalism. He said the arrest “underscores the Commission’s dedication to tackling cybercrime at the highest level and proves that these crimes are often orchestrated by international actors who exploit vulnerable Nigerians for their schemes.”

    Rafsanjani added that the operation debunks the harmful stereotype that Nigerians are the main perpetrators of cybercrime. “What we are seeing is a transnational criminal hierarchy where foreign masterminds manipulate and discard Nigerian youth after using them to front illegal operations,” he said.

    He also warned that such narratives have long damaged Nigeria’s international reputation and obscured the role of foreign actors who operate behind the scenes. “These syndicates prey on unemployed or desperate young people by offering fake job opportunities and financial incentives, only to expose them to criminal risk while remaining in the shadows.”

    CISLAC urged the EFCC to carry out a thorough, transparent investigation to ensure all parties regardless of nationality are held accountable. The organization also called on the Nigerian government to increase investment in youth-focused initiatives, digital safeguards, and cyber-literacy programs aimed at reducing vulnerability to online fraud and recruitment by criminal networks.

    The group emphasized that the fight against cybercrime cannot be won in isolation. In a statement, CISLAC said, “Sustainable progress in combating cybercrime requires strong institutional collaboration among key agencies such as the EFCC, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and the Nigeria Customs Service.”

    It pointed out that many foreign criminals exploit weaknesses in immigration control to enter and operate in the country illegally. “Enhanced immigration screening and proactive enforcement would prevent many of these actors from embedding themselves within local communities,” the organisation stated.

    CISLAC also highlighted the role of the Nigeria Customs Service in intercepting illegal arms, equipment, and contraband used to facilitate organized crime. Strengthened border surveillance and inter-agency intelligence sharing, it said, would significantly support the EFCC in dismantling both foreign-led and locally-supported criminal syndicates.

    The organization further called for deeper engagement with international partners, multilateral institutions, and credible civil society organizations. These entities, it noted, can provide “critical intelligence, credible data, and technical support that strengthen investigative and prosecutorial efforts.”

    In addition to law enforcement, CISLAC emphasized the importance of media and public awareness in addressing the social dimensions of cybercrime. It noted with concern the growing number of Nigerian students abandoning their education in pursuit of “quick money” through online scams.

    “The media must play a proactive role in reshaping public perception and educating young Nigerians on the long-term dangers of cybercrime,” the organization stated. It recommended nationwide awareness campaigns and youth empowerment programs as essential tools for prevention.

    CISLAC concluded by reaffirming its commitment to supporting the EFCC and other institutions working to restore Nigeria’s global image. It reiterated the need for a unified national strategy that addresses the root causes of cybercrime, promotes lawful opportunities for youth, and ensures accountability across all levels of criminal activity.

  • Ogun I Customs Seizes Rolls-Royce, Over 4,400 Bags of Rice, Cannabis Worth ₦1.4bn In Six Weeks

    Ogun I Customs Seizes Rolls-Royce, Over 4,400 Bags of Rice, Cannabis Worth ₦1.4bn In Six Weeks

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has announced the seizure of contraband goods valued at over ₦1.4 billion within a six-week period, including a Rolls-Royce vehicle, thousands of bags of foreign parboiled rice, and large quantities of cannabis.

    Speaking during a press briefing at the Idiroko Command headquarters on Thursday, August 21, 2025, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, disclosed that the seizures were achieved through intelligence-driven operations and the dedication of officers in combating smuggling along the border corridors.

    “Barely six weeks ago, I pledged that the Command would not relent in fighting smuggling or bow to the antics of economic saboteurs. Today, I am glad to report remarkable achievements within this short period,” Otunla said.

    According to him, the items intercepted include 4,424 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to over seven truckloads), 50 sacks and 1,936 parcels of cannabis sativa, 105 used pneumatic tyres, 21 bales and three sacks of used clothing, three foreign-used vehicles, including a Rolls-Royce worth billions of naira, and 6,400 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

    The Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the seized items stands at ₦1,401,531,923.95, representing a major economic blow to smugglers.

    Otunla also highlighted the Command’s revenue performance, noting that ₦45,054,191.00 was generated in July 2025, an increase of 27.47% compared to ₦35,327,852.00 in July 2024. He attributed this growth to improved compliance measures, enhanced border monitoring, and robust stakeholder engagement.

    As part of inter-agency collaboration, the seized illicit drugs were handed over to the Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Idiroko Special Command for further investigation and prosecution.

    “The synergy with NDLEA reinforces our determination to safeguard public health and protect our youths from the devastating effects of hard drugs,” Otunla added.

    The Customs boss commended his officers, sister security agencies, and members of the border communities for their support while warning smugglers and their collaborators to desist from illegal activities.

    “No matter the sophistication of your tricks, our officers will continue to thwart your antics, and we shall bring the full weight of the law against you,” he declared.

    He assured that Ogun I Command will remain vigilant and committed to the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, focusing on consolidation, collaboration, and innovation.

  • Nigerian Navy FOB Badagry Reports Major Gains In Anti-Smuggling, Anti-Trafficking Ops

    Nigerian Navy FOB Badagry Reports Major Gains In Anti-Smuggling, Anti-Trafficking Ops

    In line with the Nigerian Navy’s sustained mandate to curb smuggling, trafficking, and other cross-border crimes within its Area of Operations (AOO), the Forward Operating Base (FOB) BADAGRY intensified patrols and enforcement activities with remarkable success between Friday 18 July and Wednesday 20 August 2025. During this period, the Base conducted a series of targeted operations across Badagry-Porto Novo Creek, Tongeji axis, Akoro Beach, Owode-Apa, Gbaji, Iyafin, and adjoining waterways.

    According to a statement signed by the Commanding Officer, Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base Badagry, Navy Captain BO Omotayo, these operations led to the interception of petroleum products, foreign parboiled rice, cannabis sativa, and the rescue of victims of human trafficking.

    Between 29 July and 2 August 2025, the Base carried out coordinated patrols along Tongeji Creek, Moba Waterside, and Badagry-Porto Novo Creek, which resulted in the seizure of 823 bags of foreign parboiled rice. The bags, concealed in boats and other covert channels for onward distribution into Badagry and nearby communities, were part of a major smuggling network disrupted by the Nigerian Navy along the Nigeria–Benin maritime corridor.

    In addition, anti-smuggling operations within the same timeframe led to the confiscation of about 13,965 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). These seizures were recorded at Owode-Apa, Ashikpa, Badagry-Porto Novo Creek, Akoro Beach, and Tongeji axis. Intelligence revealed that the consignments were intended for illegal movement into Benin Republic. The entire contaminated PMS was subsequently destroyed to avoid recirculation into the local market in line with extant regulation.

    Furthermore, Between 23 July and 8 August 2025, the Base recorded significant success in countering human trafficking along Badagry–Porto Novo River. In the course of these operations, 8 victims were rescued and 2 traffickers arrested.

    Investigations revealed that the victims were being deceived with promises of better opportunities in neighbouring countries, with the intent of exploiting them to forced labour and prostitution. Notably, Mr. Godwin Benard Ifeanyi, a prime facilitator of the syndicate, was arrested and has since been charged to court. All rescued victims were profiled and handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation and the reunification with their families.

    Additionally, on 25 July 2025, acting on credible intelligence, naval personnel conducted a targeted raid on a suspected drug storage facility at Jegeme axis. The operation led to the recovery of 50 wraps of cannabis sativa, carefully concealed for onward distribution. The swift action not only disrupted the illicit drug supply chain but also reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s determination to prevent criminal elements from exploiting border communities as transit points for narcotics trafficking.

    On this day, 21 August 2025, In line with the Nigerian Navy’s Standard Operating Procedures and in keeping with extant regulations, the entire consignment of 823 bags of rice have been formally handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service Seme Area Command, while the 50 wraps suspected cannabis sativa was transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Seme Area Command, for further administrative action.

    These sustained efforts underscore the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, as articulated in the CNS Strategic Directive 06–2023. The directive emphasizes the Nigerian Navy’s role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime borders, countering economic sabotage, combating transnational crimes, and strengthening inter-agency cooperation to enhance national security.

    FOB Badagry remains committed to executing its mandate with professionalism, diligence, and resolve, while working closely with host communities and sister security agencies in the collective fight against smuggling, trafficking, and other maritime crimes.

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