Category: International News

  • Navy FOB Badagry Hands Over 97 Bags Of Smuggled Foreign Parboiled Rice, 191 Wraps Of Suspected Cannabis Sativa To The NCS And NDLEA

    Navy FOB Badagry Hands Over 97 Bags Of Smuggled Foreign Parboiled Rice, 191 Wraps Of Suspected Cannabis Sativa To The NCS And NDLEA


    The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB), Badagry, has handed over 97 bags of smuggled foreign parboiled rice and 191 wraps of suspected Cannabis Sativa to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), respectively, as part of its ongoing high-intensity maritime security operations.

    According to a press statement released by the Commanding Officer, Navy Captain B.O. Omotayo, the contraband was seized during separate operations conducted across the Badagry – Seme – Porto Novo waterways and surrounding land corridors between April 23 and May 14, 2025.

    The seizures include:

    * 97 x 50kg bags of foreign parboiled rice intercepted on April 26, 2025.
    * 191 wraps of suspected Cannabis Sativa, weighing approximately 114.6kg, recovered in three separate operations around Packo and Bedrome–Ashipa between April 30 and May 14.
    * 307 kegs of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), totaling about 7,675 litres, confiscated in four operations around Simtop Jetty, Tosuvi, Ashikpa, and Panshi areas between April 23 and May 3.

    In accordance with extant regulations and the Nigerian Navy’s Standard Operating Procedures, the rice was handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service, Western Marine Command, while the suspected Cannabis was transferred to the NDLEA’s Seme Special Area Command on Tuesday, May 20, for further investigation and prosecution. The intercepted PMS was destroyed to prevent illegal distribution within the area of operation.

    Captain Omotayo stated that these successes reflect FOB Badagry’s unwavering commitment to implementing the strategic directives of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, under Strategic Directive 06–2023, which focuses on safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment in support of national security and economic growth.

    He emphasized the base’s resolve to sustain its fight against smuggling, narcotics trafficking, and related maritime crimes, while also reinforcing inter-agency cooperation and community engagement to foster lasting maritime security in the region.

  • Why Fidelity Bank Plc Is Too Big to Fail

    Why Fidelity Bank Plc Is Too Big to Fail

    Several media platforms have gone to town with the news of the Supreme Court ruling on a dispute between the defunct FSB International Bank and Sagecom Concepts Limited with some of them questioning the ability of Fidelity Bank (the judgement debtor) to make the payment.

    As the matter is still before the court and there’s a court order prohibiting media publications on this matter, warning that violations would constitute contempt of court, a punishable offense, we will highlight in this article why Fidelity Bank is too big to fail as alluded to by several online platforms.

    Financial Strength and Market Position

    Fidelity Bank Plc has demonstrated remarkable financial resilience, solidifying its position as one of Nigeria’s leading financial institutions. Recent reports highlight the bank’s impressive growth trajectory, including its re-entry into the N1 trillion market capitalization club and a 167.8% increase in profit before tax (PBT) to N105.8 billion in Q1 2025. Fidelity Bank’s financial performance has been exceptional, with a 64.2% year-on-year increase in gross earnings to N315.4 billion in Q1 2025. The bank’s total deposits have surged to N6.6 trillion, driven by a 21.4% increase in foreign currency deposits. These figures highlight its ability to attract and retain capital, ensuring liquidity and operational efficiency.

    Investor Confidence and Regulatory Compliance

    Fidelity Bank’s stock performance has been impressive, with a 237% oversubscription in its capital raise venture. Analysts predict continued growth, with gross earnings expected to reach N1.5 trillion and profit before tax projected at N415.4 billion in 2025. The bank’s ability to meet the N500 billion capitalization target set by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) underscores its financial resilience and regulatory compliance.

    Support for Small and Medium Enterprises

    Fidelity Bank’s commitment to supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) plays a crucial role in its significance to the economy. By providing tailored financial solutions and resources for SMEs, such as the recently launched SME Hub, the bank contributes to job creation and economic development, further cementing its importance in the financial ecosystem.

    Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management

    Fidelity Bank has demonstrated a strong commitment to regulatory compliance and risk management. By maintaining capital adequacy ratios above the required thresholds – liquidity ratio at 54.7% and capital adequacy ratio (CAR) at 20.3%, compared to the minimum requirement of 30.0% and 15.0%, respectively- the bank not only ensures its own stability but also contributes to the overall health of the banking sector.

    Strategic Expansion and International Presence

    The bank’s acquisition of Union Bank UK in 2023 marked a significant step toward international expansion. This move strengthens its global footprint and enhances its ability to serve a diverse clientele. Fidelity Bank’s leadership has also set ambitious goals to elevate the institution to tier-1 status, further reinforcing its stability and growth potential.

    It is also worth noting that global best practice allows for judgement payments of this nature to be made in installments as agreed by the relevant parties. This is to ensure that the judgement is executed to the letter in a sustainable manner.

  • Nigerian Navy Set To Commission Ships, Helicopters, And Accommodation For Junior Officers In 69th Anniversary Celebrations

    Nigerian Navy Set To Commission Ships, Helicopters, And Accommodation For Junior Officers In 69th Anniversary Celebrations

    The Nigerian Navy has unveiled a line-up of activities for its 69th Anniversary Celebration scheduled to hold from Friday, 23 May to Sunday, 1 June 2025 in Lagos. Rear Admiral Ibrahim Abdullahi Dewu, Chief of Policy and Plans at the Naval Headquarters in Abuja, made this known during an international press conference held on Monday, 19 May 2025.

    Rear Admiral Dewu stated that the Navy Week, as the celebration is popularly known, commemorates the establishment of the Nigerian Navy on 1 June 1956. According to him, the Navy has grown from a modest coastal force into a formidable maritime institution with influence in the Gulf of Guinea and sub-Saharan Africa.

    He noted that the Navy Week is also an opportunity to present the scorecard of the Nigerian Navy under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.

    He explained that the Navy, under Ogalla, has achieved a high level of operational readiness in fulfilling its constitutional roles, especially in the fight against crude oil theft. The operation, initially launched in January 2024 as Operation Delta Sanity, was relaunched in December 2024 as Operation Delta Sanity II. The operations led to the arrest of 215 suspects, seizure of 26 vessels, and destruction of 468 illegal refinery sites in 2024 alone.

    In 2025, more than 103 illegal sites have already been destroyed, with the arrest of 34 suspects and the seizure of 39 wooden boats and one ship. So far, about 773,000 litres of crude oil and 150,000 litres of refined products have been recovered this year. Dewu stated that these achievements align with the President’s directive to eradicate oil theft and boost national oil production.

    The Nigerian Navy also maintains constant situational awareness through its Falcon Eye and Regional Maritime Awareness Capacity Systems, which have contributed to Nigeria’s zero-piracy rating in the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy assessment.

    The Nigerian Navy has taken a leadership role in regional security, hosting the 8th Symposium of Heads of Navies and Coast Guards of Gulf of Guinea nations in November 2024. The symposium discussed the operationalization of a Combined Maritime Task Force for the region.

    In February 2025, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, signed an agreement with the African Union for strategic sealift support by the Nigerian Navy. Dewu affirmed the Navy’s readiness to support AU peace operations and humanitarian missions.

    He also announced the establishment of a Special Operations Command in Makurdi, Benue State, on the North Bank of the River Benue, aimed at bolstering security in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.

    In terms of fleet renewal, the Navy will commission three new patrol vessels—NNS Shere, NNS Faro, and NNS Ikogosi—acquired from Singapore and South Korea. Additionally, three Agusta Westland 109 Trekker helicopters will be added to the Navy’s fleet, bringing the total number of helicopters to 14.

    Dewu also highlighted the Navy’s participation in international exercises, including the recently concluded Exercise Obangame Express 2025, conducted from 10 to 16 May with partner nations such as the USA, Brazil, Italy, and Spain.

    He outlined the Navy Week events, starting with Juma’at prayers on Friday, 23 May in Abuja, and an interdenominational church service on Sunday, 25 May in Lagos. Other activities include Medical Rhapsodies and outreach by the Naval Officers’ Wives Association on Monday, 26 May, a sailing competition and boat race on Wednesday, 28 May, and the unveiling of a remodeled auditorium at the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria.

    On Thursday, 29 May, naval ships will be open to public visitors in Lagos, Warri, Port Harcourt, and Calabar. On Friday, 30 May, the public will have an opportunity to go onboard ships for sea cruises, and there will also be a golf tournament at the Dolphin Golf Club in Navy Town, Lagos.

    The commissioning of ships, helicopters, and accommodation for junior officers will take place on Saturday, 31 May at NNS Beecroft, Apapa, Lagos, while the celebration will end on Sunday, 1 June with a ceremonial sunset and dinner at the Naval Dockyard in Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Rear Admiral Dewu appreciated the media for its continued support and called on journalists to give adequate publicity to the Navy Week activities.

    He then opened the floor for questions from members of the press.

  • Eastern Naval Command Boosts Personnels Proficiency With Small Arms Firing Exercise To Prepare Troops For Combat Scenarios

    Eastern Naval Command Boosts Personnels Proficiency With Small Arms Firing Exercise To Prepare Troops For Combat Scenarios


    In line with Nigerian Navy schedule of events 2025, Headquarters Eastern Naval Command kicks off a 3-day small arms firing exercise which started on Wednesday 14 and ended Friday 16 May 2025 at the Nigerian Police Shooting Range in Asabanka community, in Calabar.

    The exercise which aims to:
    Enhance marksmanship skills , Improve weapon handling and safety, Prepare troops for combat scenarios and Maintain operational readiness, commenced with the kickoff shot fired by Rear Admiral DM Ndanusa who represented the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command Rear Admiral SA Akinwande.

    All units under Eastern Naval Command in Calabar Area and the Naval War College of Nigeria participated in the 3 days exercise.
    The exercise was designed to enhance the professionalism and mission readiness of naval personnel in response to emerging security threats.

    The exercise included full-scale live-fire drills, with participants firing various weapons at different distances, ranging from 200m, 100m, and 50m respectively. The exercise equally reinforced cooperation as some Nigerian Army gunnery instructors from the Nigeria Army 13 Brigade were invited for the exercise.

    Participants were grouped into 10-man syndicates, allowing for effective supervision and guidance, testing their marksmanship skills.
    The Flag Officer Commanding, Eastern Naval Command Rear Admiral SA Akinwande, in his closing remarks emphasized the importance of such exercises in maintaining personnel proficiency and enhancing operational readiness.

    The Firing Exercise was a resounding success, demonstrating the Eastern Naval Command’s commitment to enhancing the professionalism and mission readiness of personnel.

  • CSOs Calls For Bold Global Action And Domestic Reform Ahead Of UN Financing For Development Conference

    CSOs Calls For Bold Global Action And Domestic Reform Ahead Of UN Financing For Development Conference

    As preparations intensify for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4), scheduled for June 30, 2025, in Seville, Spain, Nigerian civil society organisations are making a strong case for transformative global reforms and urgent domestic action to address the persistent financing challenges facing the Global South.

    This call is contained in a newly released report titled “Financing for Development in Nigeria: Sectoral Context and Insights for the Fourth International Conference”—an advocacy position paper developed by the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), in partnership with Oxfam in Nigeria, Christian Aid, International Budget Partnership, Tax Justice & Governance Platform, Connected Development, and other key partners under the Africa Agenda on Financing for Development (Agenda Afrique).

    The report presents a sobering analysis of Nigeria’s development trajectory, warning that: “Nigeria faces a multidimensional financing gap, driven by underperforming domestic resource mobilization, inequitable global financial rules, and increasing vulnerability to climate change.”

    It notes that critical sectors such as education, health, agriculture, and climate resilience remain chronically underfunded. “Education spending falls below UNESCO benchmarks, health expenditure remains under 4% of GDP, and the country loses over $18 billion annually to illicit financial flows,” the document states. “Meanwhile, Nigeria’s debt service-to-revenue ratio has now exceeded 70 percent, leaving little room for investment in people.”

    The report also emphasizes that while international frameworks such as the African Union’s Agenda 2063, ECOWAS Vision 2050, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) offer a shared vision for progress, the real struggle lies in resource mobilization. “The issue is not a lack of frameworks, but rather a lack of effective implementation due to several core problems,” the report asserts, citing corruption, poor budget implementation, outdated development data, and weak public financial management systems as recurring challenges.

    It laments that most Nigerian states do not have measurable development blueprints, making it difficult to track progress or attract meaningful investments. “Without decisive and deliberate efforts to bridge these financing gaps at both national and sub-national levels, Nigeria will continue to fall behind,” the document warns.

    Nigeria is also using the platform of the upcoming FfD4 to call for major reforms in the international financial architecture. The country advocates for changes to global tax rules, easier access to climate finance, and new concessional financing frameworks that reflect the needs of countries with large populations living in poverty. “We urge the international community to prioritise loss and damage financing, equitable access to green investments, and reform of Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) to better support middle-income countries carrying high poverty burdens,” the report adds.

    On the domestic front, the report outlines a range of policy proposals to enhance Nigeria’s financial capacity. These include adopting digital tax systems for fair taxation, simplifying trade processes to drive industrialisation, launching anti-corruption and asset recovery campaigns, and establishing development finance facilities to de-risk private investment in infrastructure and social services. It also calls for the institutionalisation of peer learning platforms to encourage innovation in sub-national financing strategies.

    The report draws urgent attention to Nigeria’s worsening brain drain crisis. “The continued migration of Nigeria’s skilled workforce, especially young professionals, is directly linked to the lack of inclusive economic opportunities at home. If we fail to invest in youth-centred policies and job creation, our best minds will continue to seek prosperity elsewhere.”

    As the world gears up for FfD4, Nigeria is positioning itself to take a leadership role in shaping the future of global development finance. The report concludes with a call to action: “This moment is pivotal. As the global community gathers to renew its financing commitments, Nigeria stands ready to champion equity, accountability, and inclusion in the international financial system. The upcoming FfD4 conference presents a critical opportunity to reshape global financing and unlock the investments required for a just and resilient future.”

  • Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, Area Controller Nigeria Customs Service Ogun I Command Idiroko Hands Over To Comptroller Olugbenga Otunla

    Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, Area Controller Nigeria Customs Service Ogun I Command Idiroko Hands Over To Comptroller Olugbenga Otunla

    The Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun I Command, Comptroller MS Shuaibu, has formally handed over the leadership of the Command to Comptroller GA Otunla, marking the end of a brief but impactful tenure characterized by enhanced anti-smuggling operations, strategic partnerships, and revenue generation.

    Speaking at the handing-over ceremony held at the Command’s headquarters in Idiroko, Shuaibu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, describing his time at the helm as a defining moment in his long-standing career in the Nigeria Customs Service.

    “It has been an incredible journey, marked by challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons. Serving as the Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Command has been the pinnacle of this journey,” he said.

    During his three-month tenure, the Command recorded notable achievements, including the generation of ₦43,412,794.00 in revenue and 161 seizures of various contraband items. Among the seizures were 3,699 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, 150 sacks of Indian Hemp, three single-barrel long guns, four packets of cartridges totaling 100 rounds, and a cash haul of 7 billion CFA Francs.

    Shuaibu attributed the Command’s achievements to the dedication and professionalism of the officers under his leadership, as well as robust collaboration with sister security agencies, traditional rulers, and stakeholders in the border communities.

    “I am immensely proud of what we achieved together. Our efforts have positioned the Ogun I Command as a key player in Nigeria’s economic and security architecture,” he added.

    He urged officers, stakeholders, and sister agencies to extend full cooperation to his successor, Comptroller GA Otunla, emphasizing that continued support is essential for sustaining the Command’s progress.

    In his address, Shuaibu reflected on the tough decisions taken during his tenure, acknowledging that some may have stirred controversy but were necessary for the advancement of the Command. “Toes were stepped on, feathers were ruffled, but those decisions were never for personal gain. They were made in the interest of performance and national interest,” he said.

    Shuaibu thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs and the Service’s management for the trust and opportunity to lead, noting that his time in Ogun I Command had been fulfilling and transformative.

    Quoting Apostle Paul in conclusion, he said, “I have run with perseverance and have finished the race. Whether I have finished it successfully or not is not for me to say – I leave that to you.”

  • APAPA COMMAND HITS ₦1 TRILLION COLLECTION

    APAPA COMMAND HITS ₦1 TRILLION COLLECTION

    Ahead of completing the first half of 2025, the Apapa Command of Nigeria Customs Service has hit ₦1 trillion revenue collection, which is a landmark achievement in the history of the Service.

    The Command’s revenue collection table shows a total of ₦1,002,968,178,694.07 this is coming more than 45 days ahead of the command’s first half report of activities.

    Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, fsi, the Customs Area Controller, attributed the success to a combination of leadership direction of the Comptroller General of Customs, blocking areas of revenue leakages and the diligent discharge of functions on the part of Officers and men in the area.

    Hitting the ₦1 trillion mark before the middle of the fifth month, according to Dr Olomu, is a confirmation of the Command’s readiness to surpass the total of ₦2.3 trillion that was collected last year before December 2024.

    While commending the Officers of the Command for sustaining the rising tempo of work which he instituted since May 2024 when he assumed office as CAC Apapa Command, the Controller called for increased efforts in ensuring maximum collection, suppression of smuggling through diligent cargo examination and facilitation of lawful trade.

    The CAC also admonished all Officers in the Command to sustain and improve on the act of intelligence sharing, robust interactions, cooperation with sister government agencies and regular stakeholder engagements to achieve more and contribute to the nation’s economic well-being.

    Comptroller Olomu said the policy thrust of the CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, which includes deployment of a Unified Customs Management System, also known as B’Odogwu has shown prospects for higher productivity by the Command.

    He said that with the ongoing training of licensed Customs agents and freight forwarders ahead of the full deployment of B’Odogwu, the Command’s chances of surpassing 2024 collection and meeting 2025 target are higher.

    “Our award-winning reputation remains unshaken as we intensify efforts to maintain our excellent record as the leading customs command domiciled in the nation’s premier port.

    ” This recent revenue collection milestone only goes to show we are not resting on our oars. Going by the examples of our CGC, we have resolved not to be complacent’’.

    “It’s important we thank our compliant stakeholders for their support in this journey of national service and reiterate that any unlawful behavior that seeks to undermine national economic drive or compromise the country’s security shall be prevented with full sanctions of the law coming down on perpetrators”, Comptroller Olomu said.

    Last year, the Command won several awards for revenue collection, including the CGC Award of Excellence, while Comptroller Olomu emerged ‘Best Controller of the Year’ for his exceptional leadership and improving on the command’s capacity to deliver on its mandates at the Comptroller General of Customs Award night, held in Abuja.

    This was stated in a Press statement signed by SC Tunde Ayagbalo, Customs Public Relations Officer, Apapa Area Command.

  • Tincan Launches B’odogwu, As First Declaration Is Captured On The New Platfor

    Tincan Launches B’odogwu, As First Declaration Is Captured On The New Platfor

    ….Commits to Transparent and Efficient Cargo Operations

    In a landmark development for Nigeria’s maritime sector, the Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully processed its first Single Goods Declaration (SGD) using the indigenously developed B’Odogwu platform. The event, which took place on Monday, May 12, 2025, marked a significant step in trade facilitation, transparency, and operational efficiency at one of the country’s busiest Seaports.

    According to the Press statement signed by SC OE IVARA, CPRO TIN-CAN ISLAND PORT COMMAND, “the successful deployment and processing of the inaugural SGD on the B’Odogwu platform reflect the Customs Service’s ongoing commitment to digital transformation, in line with the Federal Government’s drive to enhance ease of doing business.

    Speaking on the watershed moment, the Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, said: “This achievement demonstrates our readiness to embrace technology that streamlines cargo clearance procedures, reduces dwell time, and improves service delivery. The B’Odogwu platform has shown great promise, and we are proud to be pioneers in its implementation.”

    Comptroller Onyeka further highlighted that the Command has achieved 100% network infrastructure coverage across all terminals and the Command’s headquarters. He emphasized that the problem of network failure is now a thing of the past, ensuring seamless connectivity and efficient processing of cargo and trade documentation.

    According to him, the B’Odogwu platform is designed to integrate seamlessly with existing Customs systems, providing a user-friendly interface for declarants, brokers, and other stakeholders. It enhances cargo tracking, document processing, and compliance management in real-time, reducing manual bottlenecks and opportunities for delays, he said.

    Comptroller Onyeka further noted that the launch was preceded by a series of extensive training sessions and stakeholder engagements organized by the Command, in collaboration with system developers. Key industry participants—including shipping lines, customs licensed agents, terminal operators, and customs officers—took part in these capacity-building initiatives. The training sessions were designed to ensure the seamless adoption of the new platform and covered critical areas such as system navigation, document processing, cargo tracking, and compliance protocols.”

    Industry stakeholders, including SteveJosh Logistics International limited whose declaration was the first to be captured on the new platform, welcomed the innovation, expressing optimism that the new platform will reduce transaction costs and improve Nigeria’s global trade competitiveness.

    The Tincan Island Port Command remains committed to embracing technological advancements that support the nation’s economic growth and international trade agenda.

  • CSOs Call On Senate President Akpabio To Step Aside Following Electoral Fraud Judgment

    CSOs Call On Senate President Akpabio To Step Aside Following Electoral Fraud Judgment

    Prominent Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to step aside from office following the Court of Appeal’s affirmation of the conviction of Professor Peter Ogban, the returning officer in the 2019 Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial election, for electoral fraud.

    The appellate court sitting in Calabar on Wednesday upheld the three-year prison sentence earlier handed down to Professor Ogban, who was found guilty of falsifying election results to favor Senator Akpabio, then the All-Progressives Congress (APC) candidate.

    “This ruling raises serious concerns about the legitimacy of Senator Akpabio’s mandate,” the CSOs said in a joint statement. “It is deeply troubling that the election which brought him to the Senate has now been judicially confirmed to have been manipulated. In any democratic society, such a development demands immediate accountability and responsible leadership.”

    The CSOs emphasized that while Senator Akpabio has denied personal involvement in the fraud, the conviction of the very official who declared him the winner casts a dark shadow over the credibility of that election. They insist that for the sake of public confidence, the rule of law, and the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions, Senator Akpabio must temporarily vacate his position until the matter is conclusively addressed.

    The CSOs raised a fundamental question: having been a confirmed beneficiary of electoral fraud in the 2019 election to the 9th Senate—which he did not even complete due to his later appointment as Minister of Niger Delta—did Senator Akpabio have the legal or moral standing to contest for a seat in the 10th National Assembly, let alone serve as its President?

    “This is not just about one individual. It is about restoring public trust in our electoral process. Allowing the Senate President to remain in office under such serious ethical questions undermines democratic values and sends a dangerous signal ahead of the 2027 general elections,” the CSOs stated.

    The organizations commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), particularly former Akwa Ibom Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Mike Igini, for spearheading the investigation and prosecution of the case. They urged the National Assembly, INEC, and the judiciary to take this judgment as a clarion call to strengthen mechanisms that prevent electoral manipulation at all levels.

    They further called on the APC leadership to demonstrate its commitment to electoral reform and democratic accountability by initiating a rerun or revalidation process for the Akwa Ibom North-West senatorial seat.

    “The judiciary has done its part. It is now up to the political leadership to rise to the occasion and show Nigerians and the world that no one is above the law—not even the Senate President,” the CSOs concluded.

    Signed:

    1. 21st Century Community Empowerment for Youth Initiative

    2. Accountability Lab, Nigeria

    3. Abuja School of Social and Political Thought

    4. Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ)

    5. African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD)

    6. African Centre for Media & Information Literacy (AFRICMIL)

    7. Alliance on Surviving Covid 19 and Beyond (AACAB)

    8. Amnesty International Nigeria

    9. Borno Coalition for Democracy and Progress (BOCODEP)

    10. BudgIT Foundation

    11. Center for Fiscal Transparency and Public Integrity

    12. Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD)

    13. Centre for Democratic Research and Training (CRDDERT)

    14. Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD)

    15. Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID)

    16. Centre for Social Justice

    17. Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC)

    18. CLEEN Foundation

    19. Conscience for Human Rights and Conflict Resolution (CHRCR)

    20. Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA)

    21. Emma Ezeazu Centre for Good Governance and Accountability

    22. Environmental Defenders Network

    23. Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth, Nigeria (ERA)

    24. Alliance on Surviving Covid 19 and Beyond(AACAB)

    25. #FixPolitics

    26. Global Rights

    27. Good Governance Team

    28. Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF)

    29. Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre)

    30. Kebetkache Women Development & Resource Centre

    31. Lawyers Alert

    32. Media Rights Agenda

    33. Mothers and Marginalized Advocacy Centre (MAMA Centre)

    34. Organization for Community Civic Engagement (OCCEN)

    35. Partners West Africa

    36. Peering Advocacy and Advancement Center in Africa PAACA

    37. Praxis

    38. Prisoners’ Rehabilitation and Welfare Action (PRAWA)

    39. Procurement Observation and Advocacy Initiative

    40. Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED)

    41. RULAAC – Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre

    42. Say NO Campaign – Nigeria

    43. Sesor Empowerment Foundation

    44. Social Action

    45. Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP)

    46. SPACES FOR CHANGE

    47. State of the Union (SOTU)

    48. Tax Justice and Governance Platform

    49. Transition Monitoring Group (TMG)

    50. West Africa Civil Society Forum (WASCSOF)

    51. West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI)

    52. Women Advocate Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC)

    53. Women in Media Communication Initiative (WIM)

    54. Women’s Rights Advancement and Protection Alternative (WRAPA)

    55. Yiaga Africa

    56. Zero Corruption Coalition (ZCC)

  • Minister of Finance Heads 62nd NCS Board Meeting, Pushes for More Success Stories Amid Q1 Achievements

    Minister of Finance Heads 62nd NCS Board Meeting, Pushes for More Success Stories Amid Q1 Achievements

    The 62nd regular meeting of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Board was held on Tuesday, April 29 2025, at the Service’s Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja. The session was chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, who led a high-powered delegation to assess the Service’s first-quarter performance and chart the path forward.

    The board meeting served as a statutory forum to evaluate the Service’s operational strategies, fiscal contributions, and reform-driven activities, particularly in light of its Q1 2025 performance. During the quarter, the NCS recorded a historic ₦1.75 trillion in revenue, exceeding its target by ₦106.5 billion and marking a nearly 30% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

    Following the meeting, the Minister expressed satisfaction with the Service’s progress but emphasised the need to scale up efforts to meet the country’s economic demands.

    “As is expected and required, there is an improvement in the revenue of the Service, which is slightly above what was budgeted for the first quarter. However, much more is required, and more is expected of an institution that is pivotal in revenue,” he states.

    Minister Edun described the board meeting as productive and reaffirmed the importance of open governance and accountability within public institutions.

    “It was a good meeting. It’s important that we maintain corporate governance oversight and consultation through these regular statutory meetings. At the end of the day, we will always ask that we do more to improve the revenue and the services operations to aid the Nigerian economy and serve the good people of Nigeria”, he remarked.

    The meeting also touched on modernisation initiatives such as expanding the B’Odogwu (Unified Customs Management System), implementing the Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) programme, and enhancing anti-smuggling efforts—all aimed at boosting trade facilitation and national security.

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