Category: International News

  • NAFRC: Chief of Air Staff Urges Over 600 Graduates to Contribute to National Development After Completion of Course 02/2024

    NAFRC: Chief of Air Staff Urges Over 600 Graduates to Contribute to National Development After Completion of Course 02/2024

    Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, has urged over 600 graduates of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) Course 02/2024 to leverage their acquired skills and training to contribute to national development. Speaking at the Passing Out Ceremony held on December 12, 2024, he emphasized the importance of transitioning into civilian life with the values of discipline, hard work, and service learned throughout their military careers.

    The Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) in Oshodi witnessed a momentous occasion yesterday as the graduating participants of Course 02/2024 were honoured during a formal Passing Out Ceremony. The event, attended by key military figures and distinguished guests, marked the successful completion of vocational, entrepreneurial, and managerial training for over 200 retiring military personnel transitioning to civilian life.

    Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff, was the Special Guest of Honour. In his address, he extended heartfelt congratulations to the Commandant, the graduating participants, and the entire NAFRC community. He commended the graduates for their commitment, discipline, and hard work throughout their careers, emphasizing that their training at the Centre had equipped them with the necessary skills to thrive as entrepreneurs and contributors to national development.

    “This ceremony symbolizes a profound milestone, especially for our gallant servicemen and women who are transitioning to civilian life after years of selfless service to our beloved nation,” said Air Marshal Abubakar, who urged the graduates to carry forward the values of discipline, courage, and commitment that defined their military careers.

    He highlighted the importance of the NAFRC in preparing retiring personnel for life beyond active service, noting the Centre’s success in providing relevant vocational and managerial training to over 51,000 personnel since its inception. Air Marshal Abubakar also paid tribute to fallen comrades who paid the ultimate price in defence of Nigeria, acknowledging their sacrifices and reinforcing the legacy they left behind.

    Addressing the challenges faced by the Centre, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Mamman, the Commandant of NAFRC, also delivered a speech outlining the Centre’s progress, including the renovation of infrastructure, introduction of new training programs, and expansion into agricultural training. He emphasized the importance of continuing to equip retiring personnel with the skills needed to avoid becoming liabilities to society.

    “In just a short period, we have made strides towards transforming NAFRC into a world-class Centre of Excellence in vocational training,” AVM Mamman said, highlighting plans to develop the Centre’s agricultural land and introduce e-learning initiatives in 2025. He also mentioned the upcoming construction of a Widows/Orphans Empowerment Centre to support the families of deceased personnel.

    Both speakers thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support for the Armed Forces, particularly for the development of NAFRC, and acknowledged the contributions of various military branches and government bodies in the Centre’s success.

    The ceremony was not only a celebration of the graduates’ achievements but also a reaffirmation of the Nigerian military’s commitment to the welfare and development of its personnel, both active and retired. As the graduates step into new chapters of their lives, they carry with them the legacy of service and the skills needed to build a prosperous future.

    In his concluding remarks, Air Marshal Abubakar encouraged the graduates to remain active contributors to their communities, reinforcing the importance of their continued involvement in the peace and development of Nigeria.

    The event was attended by various dignitaries, including senior military officers, family members of the graduates, and distinguished guests, all of whom shared in the pride and joy of the graduates’ accomplishments.

  • Mohammed Shuaibu Takes Over Leadership of Ogun I Customs Command

    Mohammed Shuaibu Takes Over Leadership of Ogun I Customs Command


    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Ogun I Command has appointed Deputy Comptroller (DC) Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu as the Acting Customs Area Controller following the retirement of Comptroller JF Ojo. DC Shuaibu, a seasoned officer with extensive experience in border operations and anti-smuggling activities, assumes the role with a pledge to enhance the Command’s core functions of revenue generation, border security, and trade facilitation.

    Until his new appointment, DC Shuaibu served as Coordinator of the now-disbanded Joint Border Patrol Team, Sector 2, Southwest, where he earned recognition for his leadership in combating smuggling and fostering inter-agency collaboration. Speaking during his inaugural address, he highlighted his vision for the Command.

    “It is an honour to lead this strategic Command, which plays a vital role in safeguarding our nation’s economy and security. I pledge to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and dedication in fulfilling our responsibilities,” Shuaibu said.

    He emphasized the importance of teamwork, innovation, and stakeholder engagement, particularly with border communities and security agencies, to achieve the Command’s objectives.

    The new Acting Controller also commended his predecessor, Comptroller JF Ojo, for his achievements, which included successful anti-smuggling operations and improved revenue collection

  • Nigerian Navy Delivers Free Medical Services to Apapa Communities

    Nigerian Navy Delivers Free Medical Services to Apapa Communities

    As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and year-end activities, the Western Naval Command of the Nigerian Navy has provided free medical services to residents of Marine Bridge in Apapa, Lagos. The initiative, tagged Medical Rhapsody, aimed to offer vital healthcare services to indigent citizens and foster stronger civil-military relations in the host community.

    The Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Michael Gregory Oamen, represented by the Deputy Command Administrative Officer, Captain F.I. Uchime, emphasized the importance of the outreach. He stated, “It is high time we give back to the Apapa community that has hosted us for years. This program is not only about providing medical care but also uplifting the morale and confidence of the community, especially during challenging times.”

    Residents benefitted from various healthcare services, including blood pressure checks, malaria and dental treatments, distribution of treated mosquito nets, eye examinations with free medicated eyeglasses, and access to essential pharmaceuticals. The program also featured an enlightening health talk by Captain O.O. Omole, who underscored the importance of routine health checks for longevity.

    Captain Uchime noted that the program reinforces the Navy’s commitment to strengthening civil-military relations, dispelling perceptions of hostility, and fostering trust between the Navy and its host communities. “We are not enemies; we are here to protect and take care of you. This initiative is a testament to our shared responsibility and commitment to community well-being,” he added.

    In a similar outreach, the Logistics Command of the Nigerian Navy extended free medical services to residents of Osubi Community in Delta State. Rear Admiral C. Onyemaobi, represented by the Command Administrative Officer, Commodore M.M. Epelle, highlighted that the initiative aligns with the Navy’s tradition of supporting host communities.

    Residents of Osubi Community received comprehensive healthcare services, including malaria testing, dental care, distribution of treated mosquito nets, and health counseling. Commodore Epelle urged beneficiaries to make the most of the opportunity for better health outcomes.

    “These initiatives demonstrate the Navy’s dual role as a defender of the nation’s maritime resources and a community partner committed to the well-being of its host communities,” said Rear Admiral Oamen.

    The Medical Rhapsody program is one of several activities planned by the Nigerian Navy to mark its 2024 end-of-year celebrations. It not only promotes health awareness but also deepens the bond between the Navy and the communities it serves.

    Residents expressed gratitude for the services, describing the initiative as a much-needed intervention in times of economic hardship. By delivering these essential services, the Nigerian Navy continues to show its commitment to both maritime security and the welfare of the nation’s citizens.

  • Family of Late Naval Chief Demands Justice For Their Son’s Murder, Calls For Accountability

    Family of Late Naval Chief Demands Justice For Their Son’s Murder, Calls For Accountability

    The Family of late Vice Admiral
    Ishaya Iko Ibrahim (Rtd), a former Chief of Naval Staff, has called on the police and judiciary to ensure justice is served in the case of his son, Aminu Ibrahim, who was murdered in Abuja some months ago. Late Ibrahim family expressed concerns about the handling of the case and demanded transparency and accountability from law enforcement agencies.

    Aminu Ibrahim was reportedly killed by a Nigerian Navy personnel, Abdul Rasheed Muhammad, who was on guard duty at the late retired admiral’s residence. The suspect, who has confessed to the crime, allegedly shot Aminu and stole his Prado SUV. The vehicle has since been recovered, and Muhammad is in police custody.

    Speaking through close associates, the grieving family emphasized that justice must take its course, insisting that the suspect must face the full weight of the law. “We demand answers about the current status of the case and the whereabouts of the suspect. This is not just a crime against my son but a breach of trust and duty. The judiciary must ensure he serves the punishment befitting his heinous act,” the retired Naval Chief said.

    Ibrahim family further urged the police to ensure that there are no lapses in the investigation or prosecution of the case. “We do not want a situation where this matter is swept under the carpet. The killer must be held accountable, and justice must be served to deter others,” he added.

    The then Federal Capital Territory Commissioner of Police, Bennett Igweh, had disclosed that the suspect attempted to escape custody but was promptly rearrested. The late retired Naval Chief family expressed their concern over the incident, calling for heightened vigilance to prevent any further attempts at evading justice.

    The police boss said preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect was a Sea Man of the Nigerian Navy on guard duty at the residence of a retired Naval officer and the vehicle belonged to late Aminu Ibrahim, the son of late Vice Admiral Ishaya Ibrahim, a former Chief of Naval Staff, who was killed and his Prado SUV snatched on 18/08/2024 at River Benue Street Maitama.

    The Commissioner said: “While in custody, the suspect attempted to escape from custody but was promptly rearrested. He freely confessed to being a member of a three man gang who specialize in armed robbery/snatching of luxury vehicles and driving them off outside the FCT.

    The judiciary was also called upon to prioritize the case and ensure a swift and fair trial. “The rule of law must prevail, and this matter should serve as an example of how seriously we take the lives and safety of every Nigerian,” Ibrahim family said.

    This case has sparked broader discussions about trust and professionalism within the security sector, particularly regarding personnel tasked with protecting lives and property. The late retired Admiral family stressed the need for systemic reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future.

    The family, however, reiterated that their focus remains on ensuring justice for their son. “This is a test of our collective commitment to justice and accountability. Our son’s life cannot be in vain.”

  • NIWA Calls For Collaboration With States On Safer Inland Waterways

    NIWA Calls For Collaboration With States On Safer Inland Waterways

    Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), has called for increased collaboration between the federal agency and state governments to enhance the safety and security of inland waterways transportation.

    Bola Oyebamiji, FCIB, MD/CEO, National Inland Waterways Authority, speaking at a one-day consultative forum on safety and insecurities on inland waterways, organized by the Nigeria Transportation Commissioners’ Forum in Ilorin, Oyebamiji emphasized the critical role that safety and security play in fostering a thriving water transportation system. The forum, themed “Prevalent Safety, Security Hazards and Practices in Inland Waterways: Passenger Transport Safety in Ilorin, Kwara State,” sought to address the pressing issues facing the inland waterways sector.

    Mr. Oyebamiji acknowledged the ongoing efforts by NIWA to improve safety, such as the recent unveiling of the transportation code for public use, the inauguration of several operational assets including survey boats, gunboats, water ambulances, and a passenger ferry. He also noted that safety campaigns have been launched across all operational bases, targeting local communities in their native languages.

    The NIWA CEO highlighted the support from the National Assembly, including the ongoing discussions on establishing coastal guards and the attention safety and security on inland waterways have received from the House Committee on Inland Waterways.

    In his closing remarks, Oyebamiji appealed to the Honourable Commissioners for Transportation across relevant states to collaborate with NIWA in areas such as training, safety campaigns, infrastructure development, and financial empowerment. He stressed that while the challenges are significant, they are surmountable through collective action.

    He expressed optimism for actionable and implementable outcomes from the forum, which he believes will contribute significantly to ensuring safer and more secure inland waterways.

  • Polaris Bank Partners Amtis Skills Place to Empower Young, Next Generation Designers

    Polaris Bank Partners Amtis Skills Place to Empower Young, Next Generation Designers

    Lagos, Nigeria – In its determination to produce the next generation of young designers who will go on to capture the imagination of the world in fashion, Polaris Bank partnered, with Amtis Skills Place, a body dedicated to producing contemporary vocational skills to young Nigerians to identify, train and mentor young designers through the 2024 Amtis Fashion Competition.

    Since its inception in 2015, Amtis Skills Place has been committed to equipping young Nigerians with vocational skills, bridging the gap between traditional education and the evolving job market.

    This year’s event, proudly sponsored by Polaris Bank brought together emerging designers aged 18 to 35 gathered to design garments inspired by vintage styles. Teams include; fashion designers, makeup artists, and models working collaboratively. Participants were judged on creativity, craftsmanship, teamwork, and adherence to the vintage theme, celebrating classic fashion eras; while empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.

    The competition, organized by Amtis Skills Place, culminated in an awards ceremony where three finalists emerged as winners. Wuraola Robert clinched the top prize of ₦500,000, while the second and third-place winners were awarded ₦300,000 and ₦200,000, respectively.

    In an address to the participants delivered on behalf of Polaris Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, Kayode Lawal remarked: “Polaris Bank ensures that you achieve your dreams in the right perspective, which is why we partnered with Amtis Vintage Fashion. We can assure you that there will be bigger things in the coming year: a more expanded event, more content, more giveaways, and greater empowerment for the business sector.”

    The Managing Director of Amtis Skills Place, Omotunde Adebusola, commended Polaris Bank for their pivotal role in supporting entrepreneurship in the country especially, the competition saying: “We are deeply grateful to Polaris Bank for believing in our vision to nurture young talents. Their partnership made this year’s event a resounding success, and we look forward to even greater collaborations in the future.”

    The overall winner, Wuraola Robert, expressed her gratitude after receiving the grand prize saying: “I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude to Polaris Bank for this incredible opportunity. This competition has transformed my career, and I’m excited to invest this prize into growing my brand.”

    The Amtis Vintage Fashion Competition exemplifies the mission of Polaris Bank and Amtis Skills Place by empowering participants to translate their creativity into viable careers.

    Polaris Bank was adjudged Nigeria’s Best Bank for MSMEs of the Year in Business Day’s Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards & Nigeria’s Best Bank in MSME Lending in the maiden MSME Awards organized by Nairametrics & The Economic Forum.

  • Customs B’Odogwu Platform Spurs Record Revenue Growth At PTML Command – Comptroller Daniyan

    Customs B’Odogwu Platform Spurs Record Revenue Growth At PTML Command – Comptroller Daniyan

    The Ports Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded its highest monthly revenue collection of ₦44.9 billion in November 2024, attributed to the successful implementation of the new customs trading platform, B’Odogwu.

    Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Tenny Daniyan, disclosed this during a press briefing on Wednesday, highlighting that the platform, currently in its pilot stage at PTML, has significantly improved revenue generation and operational efficiency.

    Daniyan addressed concerns about the platform’s rollout, refuting claims that four vessels had been left unattended at the PTML berth due to system failures. He assured stakeholders that challenges raised by agents had been addressed in meetings earlier in the week, with further support available through the implementation team.

    To mitigate teething issues, the command has employed manual processes for cargo clearance while collaborating with the terminal operator to facilitate trade for port users already engaging with the platform.

    The CAC urged agents to register on B’Odogwu to fully integrate into the system, noting that some complaints stem from agents yet to complete their registrations. “B’Odogwu is a Nigerian baby that should be fed by Nigerians. We are weaning our baby from a foreign mother and urge all Nigerians to support it. We are not going back to NICIS II,” Daniyan emphasized.

    He also highlighted progress in onboarding financial institutions to the platform, with over five banks already connected and arrangements underway for 17 additional banks on the interswitch payment platform to join. These interactions, facilitated by the NCS ICT/Modernisation Department, are expected to be resolved by Thursday.

    Daniyan reassured stakeholders of the command’s commitment to resolving challenges. “As the problems come up, we are solving them. The management has dispatched an implementation team here to ensure stakeholders don’t suffer,” he stated.

    He also underscored that B’Odogwu’s implementation at PTML is a critical step toward modernizing customs operations across Nigeria. “We are committed to getting it right here before moving to Tin Can and other ports. Our turnaround time for properly declared RoRo cargo remains two hours, dependent on declarant compliance. However, we will not compromise national security and revenue for trade facilitation,” he added.

    Daniyan revealed that 292 bills of lading were successfully captured on the platform in November, while 375 remain pending. Additionally, over 98 importers had paid duties under the B’Odogwu platform by Wednesday.

    The PTML Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Muhammad Yakubu, further reiterated the NCS’s dedication to addressing stakeholder concerns and ensuring the platform’s smooth implementation.

    The introduction of B’Odogwu represents a significant stride toward achieving the NCS’s modernization goals, setting the stage for enhanced efficiency and increased revenue collection in Nigeria’s ports.

  • NCS Strengthens Partnership with IPMAN, NMDPRA to Combat Petroleum Smuggling

    NCS Strengthens Partnership with IPMAN, NMDPRA to Combat Petroleum Smuggling

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), on 3 December 2024, hosted representatives of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), and Dangote Refineries at its Abuja headquarters.

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, was represented at the meeting by the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Enforcement, Inspection, and Investigation, Timi Bomodi. Bomodi stated that the meeting aimed to address the illegal exportation of petroleum products from Nigeria.

    He emphasised the critical role of collaboration between the NCS, NMDPRA, and IPMAN in curbing this menace and highlighted the importance of geospatial surveillance and ground operations under the NCS’ Operation Whirlwind.

    “With eyes in the sky, we ensure integrity within the system. From the point of refinery production to designated filling stations, we can monitor and prevent diversion. A central filing system further enables us to maintain records and curtail illegal activities,” Bomodi said.

    The National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu, described the initiative as a call to duty, underlining its importance for national economic stability.

    “This is about ensuring that products meant for our citizens are delivered promptly. We are committed to supporting legitimate trade, but those exploiting the backdoor will face stringent measures. We are steadily closing in on this challenge,” Ejibunu declared.

    The President of IPMAN, Abubakar Shettima, raised concerns about the seizure of trucks and the closure of certain filling stations. Nonetheless, he pledged IPMAN’s support for the NCS’ anti-smuggling efforts, especially in border areas.

    “Smugglers must face prosecution to protect Nigeria’s economy and ensure growth, despite the challenges faced by oil marketers,” Shettima remarked.

    The meeting, which included an interactive session, concluded with an agreement to reconvene on 10 December 2024. The next session will involve the Comptroller-General of Customs and other senior officials to further discuss sustainable solutions.

  • NCS Hosts WCO, JICA Workshop on African Rules of Origin

    NCS Hosts WCO, JICA Workshop on African Rules of Origin


    The World Customs Organisation (WCO), in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), organised a five-day workshop starting from Thursday, 28 November 2024, aimed at building the capacity of Customs operatives across African countries in the area of rules of origin.

    Speaking to journalists shortly after declaring the workshop open, the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of Tariff and Trade, DCG Caroline Niagwan, noted that the two international organisations had formed an alliance to provide technical assistance. This includes training initiatives to support Customs officers across the African region.

    DCG Niagwan stated: “The European Union and the World Customs Organisation signed a partnership agreement for a comprehensive programme that would foster the full implementation and application of the rules of origin in Africa.

    “This programme, known as the EU-WCO Rules of Origin for Africa Programme, enhances the capacity of Africa and supports the implementation and application of rules of origin to boost intra-African trade. That is the whole rationale.”

    Faith Mathenge, a Rules of Origin expert and facilitator for the EU-WCO Rules of Origin for Africa Programme, reiterated that the programme was designed to build capacity for African countries in rules of origin, which she described as crucial for facilitating trade.

    She affirmed the WCO’s commitment to providing continuous support to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) through training initiatives aimed at enhancing the efficiency of its officers.

    Mathenge revealed that nearly 26 countries sent representatives to participate in the workshop and encouraged attendees to pay close attention to the modern technicalities associated with rules of origin.

    She commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his unwavering support for capacity building. “I must commend the CGC for prioritising capacity building, which is the bedrock that will enable his officers to implement procedures that facilitate trade and enhance compliance,” she said.

    The workshop underscored the importance of collaboration in fostering intra-African trade and strengthening the role of Customs officers in implementing rules of origin effectively.

  • WESTERN MARINE COMMAND: Comptroller Bamisaiye Transfers Seized Cannabis, Codeine Worth ₦182.2 Million to NDLEA, NAFDAC

    WESTERN MARINE COMMAND: Comptroller Bamisaiye Transfers Seized Cannabis, Codeine Worth ₦182.2 Million to NDLEA, NAFDAC


    The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has handed over contraband valued at ₦182,196,000 to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). The items include 1,658 loaves of Cannabis Sativa, weighing 788 kilograms, and 386 bottles of codeine syrup, seized during anti-smuggling operations in November 2024.

    During a press briefing, Comptroller PK Bamisaiye, the Customs Area Controller of the Western Marine Command, described the seizures as part of the Command’s intensified efforts to combat smuggling along Nigeria’s waterways. The Cannabis Sativa was intercepted during operations at Ijegun Waterside, Bar Beach, and Ekare Beach Front, which also led to the arrest of three suspects. These actions were carried out in line with Section 233 of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.

    In addition to the drugs, the Command also confiscated 295 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice, seven bags of 50kg refined granulated sugar, and 900 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at locations including the “Point of No Return” in Badagry and Panko Ere waterfronts. The PMS was disposed of in accordance with established regulations.

    Comptroller Bamisaiye emphasized that these operations align with the directives of the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) to safeguard the economy and public health. He highlighted the devastating effects of smuggling, particularly the trafficking of hard drugs, on the nation’s wellbeing. “Smuggling harms our economy and threatens public health. The Western Marine Command remains committed to eliminating all forms of economic sabotage along our waterways,” he declared.

    Marine Commander Udoh Morrison of the NDLEA commended the Customs Service for its proactive stance in combating drug smuggling, noting the longstanding cooperation between the two agencies. Morrison called for enhanced collaboration, citing the need for resource sharing and operational support.

    “Customs has been at the forefront of the drug war even before the establishment of NDLEA. Their capacity, including flying boats and strategic outposts, is invaluable to our operations,” Morrison remarked. He also stressed the importance of public awareness about modern drugs like tramadol, which are odorless but highly dangerous, urging parents to stay vigilant.

    Pharm. Shaba Muhammed, Director of Investigation and Enforcement at NAFDAC, echoed these sentiments. Represented by Principal Regulatory Officer Isah Salihu, Muhammed praised the Customs Service for its decisive actions, describing them as vital to securing Nigeria’s waterways and upholding economic stability.

    Both NDLEA and NAFDAC acknowledged the critical need for inter-agency synergy in tackling drug trafficking and other illicit activities. The handover of the seized items not only demonstrates the effectiveness of ongoing partnerships but also underscores the shared resolve to protect the nation’s economy and public health.

    With these coordinated efforts, the fight against smuggling and drug abuse in Nigeria’s waterways continues to gain momentum, promising a safer and more secure future for all Nigerians.

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