Category: International News

  • Naval Engineering Services Hosts Strategic Workshop with Prime Atlantic to Boost Navy’s Market Growth

    Naval Engineering Services Hosts Strategic Workshop with Prime Atlantic to Boost Navy’s Market Growth


    On Thursday, 12 September 2024, the Nigerian Naval Engineering Services Limited (NESL), in collaboration with Prime Atlantic Global Engineering Services (PAGES), hosted a groundbreaking workshop at the Admiralty Conference Center, Naval Dockyard, Lagos. Themed “Navigating Commercial Waters: Market Strategies for the Nigerian Navy,” the event sought to empower the Nigerian Navy with tools to enhance its operational capabilities, promote innovation, and secure sustainable growth.

    The workshop covered essential areas such as strategic market penetration, expansion, alliance building, partnership development, and integrating best practices. Rear Admiral JD Akpan, Chief of Policy and Plans at Naval Headquarters Abuja, emphasized that the workshop aimed to help the Navy grow its business ventures, using platforms like NESL to support both operational and welfare initiatives.

    Rear Admiral B Iyalla, Managing Director and CEO of NESL, highlighted the company’s expertise in engineering services, logistics, manufacturing, and training, positioning NESL as a comprehensive provider of engineering solutions. NESL’s partnership with PAGES showcased the importance of collaboration in driving growth and innovation for the Navy’s commercial initiatives.

    The event was attended by several esteemed guests, including Rear Admirals LC Izu and HD Zakaria, as well as key industry leaders like Adeola Adeyanju, Executive Director of PAGES, Folake Soyannwo, Managing Director of Prime Atlantic Safety Services, and Emmanuel Bribena, CEO of One Source Mart.

    The workshop featured a tour of the Naval Dockyard facility, demonstrating the Navy’s commitment to progress through strategic partnerships. Gifts were also presented to guests, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the initiative.

    This workshop marks a significant step in the Navy’s strategy to strengthen its commercial operations and enhance its contribution to national development.

  • IMION Closes Maiden Maritime Security & Blue Economy Workshop

    IMION Closes Maiden Maritime Security & Blue Economy Workshop

    …Focuses On Enhancing Inter-Agency Collaboration And Strategic Policy Development

    On Friday, September 13, 2024, the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) successfully concluded its five-day inaugural workshop on Maritime Security and the Blue Economy. The workshop, which took place at the IMION Auditorium, focused on the critical role of inter-agency collaboration in securing Nigeria’s vast maritime environment and harnessing the potential of the Blue Economy.

    In his closing remarks, IMION’s Director General, Rear Admiral TC Udofia (Retired), emphasized the importance of maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea (GoG) and the need for stronger cooperation among national and international maritime stakeholders. He praised the participants, which included representatives from the Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Police Force, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), and other key organizations, for their dedication throughout the workshop.

    Rear Admiral Udofia highlighted that the workshop aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of the Blue Economy, increase their capacity to support sustainable maritime activities, and improve compliance with environmental regulations. “The knowledge gained here will help shape sound policies that promote a safer and more secure maritime environment for the Blue Economy to thrive,” he stated.

    The workshop covered a wide range of topics, including maritime infrastructure development, gender dimensions of maritime security, and coastal community engagement in maritime surveillance. Rear Admiral Udofia expressed his gratitude to Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla for his unwavering support and assured that the insights gained from the workshop would contribute to tackling maritime security challenges in Nigeria.

    In closing, he thanked the staff of IMION for their efforts in organizing the workshop and wished all participants safe travels back to their respective units. He reiterated the importance of continued collaboration to unlock the full potential of Nigeria’s maritime resources and promote sustainable development.

    The event marked a significant step toward addressing maritime security challenges and advancing the Blue Economy in Nigeria.

  • FOB Navy Seizes Sacks of Cannabis Sativa, Hands Over to NDLEA

    FOB Navy Seizes Sacks of Cannabis Sativa, Hands Over to NDLEA


    The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has successfully intercepted and handed over 30 sacks of cannabis sativa to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

    On 13 August 2024, the Base Quick Response Team, acting on credible human intelligence, located a stash of illegal hard drugs suspected to be cannabis sativa at a facility known as Tenshop, near a mosque opposite the Iyafin community. Despite extensive searches of the surrounding areas, no suspects were apprehended as they fled upon the team’s arrival.

    In accordance with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution (HSOP-AD&P) 2016, Lieutenant Commander BI Zoaka, the Base Operations Officer, officially handed over the drugs to Assistant Commander of Narcotics Emmanuel Ogbogoh, the Assistant Area Commander Operations and Training at the NDLEA Seme Arca Command in Badagry, on 12 September 2024.

    This operation is part of the broader Operation WATER GUARD, launched by Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan on 9 November 2023. The operation aims to curb smuggling and other criminal activities within the Western Naval Command Area of Operation (AOO), ensuring regional security and economic stability. The continued efforts of the Nigerian Navy FOB Badagry align with the Chief of Naval Staff’s Strategic Directive 2023-6, which focuses on maintaining a secure maritime environment in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.

    The Nigerian Navy remains steadfast in its commitment to maritime security and the enforcement of laws to safeguard the region’s economic interests and public safety.

  • Petroleum Tanker Drivers Plans Massive Protest in Lagos Over Chairman Removal, Incumbent Bad Leadership

    Petroleum Tanker Drivers Plans Massive Protest in Lagos Over Chairman Removal, Incumbent Bad Leadership

    The Petroleum Tanker Drivers Association PTD, an affiliate of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Lagos State Branch has threatened to go on massive protest over what they termed the illegal removal of Comrade Olabisi Akinlolu as the substantive Chairman of the Lagos State Branch of the Association after spending just 6 months after being duly elected, TMnews can report.

    The officials of the Association who spoke with Journalists on Tuesday accused Comrade Saheed Adigun, his Deputy for masterminding his removal in a manner which they termed as illegal and contrary to the provision of the constitution guiding the Association.

    According to a member of the Association who spoke on the condition of anonymity said, “our erstwhile Lagos State Branch Chairman was forcefully removed from office by his Deputy, Comrade Saheed Adigun who plotted his removal and planted himself as the present Chairman.”

    Speaking further, he said, “On May 5, 2022, a Delegate Conference of PTD, Lagos Zonal Council was held at Manhattan Hall, Jericho, Ibadan, Oyo State, with the theme “Continuity of Excellence”, where Comrade Olabisi Akinlolu was re-elected as the Zonal Chairman of PTD- Lagos Council, to serve for another 4 years, because of his competence and transparency.

    “After 6 months in office, Comrade Saheed Adigun and some individuals who are against his transparent leadership style removed him from office illegally to start a parallel executive leadership, supported by Comrade Dr. Chief Otunba Salmon Akanni Oladiti JP, a member of the PTD Trustees, who influenced others with money to ensure Saheed Adigun surreptitiously becomes the Lagos State Chairman.” He said.

    Adding that Chief Otunba Salmon Akanni Oladiti who was once the National Chairman of the Association, did not handover some Bank accounts having huge sums of money belonging to the Association after his tenure. Since the inception of Comrade Saheed Adigun, as the Chairman of the PTD-Lagos Council, the Association has been experiencing hardships, setbacks, corruption, diversion of Association funds to the private bank account of Otunba Salmon Akanni and manifesting the worst kind of leadership to the Association.

    “What we are asking for is that our Chairman, Comrade Olabisi Akinlolu be returned to office to complete his 4 years term. All members of PTD lagos Council are tired of the bad leadership of Comrade Saheed Adigun, we want our Chairman returned to office for a better and effective leadership.” He lamented.

  • CNS Emphasizes Maritime Security, Blue Economy As Key To Nigeria’s Sustainable Maritime Development

    CNS Emphasizes Maritime Security, Blue Economy As Key To Nigeria’s Sustainable Maritime Development


    Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has highlighted the urgent need to bolster maritime security and effectively utilize the country’s marine resources. Ogalla made this call in a key address at the launch of Nigeria’s first Maritime Security and Blue Economy workshop, emphasizing that protecting Nigeria’s maritime domain and optimizing its blue economy are crucial for national stability and economic growth.

    The workshop, held at the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION), Nigerian Navy Ship QUORRA Auditorium Naval Base, Harbour Road Apapa is organized in collaboration with Sequential Development Solutions.

    In his address, Vice Admiral Ogalla who was represented by Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Naval Doctrine Command, Rear Admiral Habilla Zakaria highlighted the strategic importance of Nigeria’s maritime environment, which is rich in resources such as oil, gas, and fisheries. He emphasized the vast potential for economic growth through the Blue Economy, which includes diversifying the economy, boosting foreign exchange earnings, and creating job opportunities.

    “The realization of the Blue Economy’s full potential depends significantly on maritime security,” Ogalla said. He pointed out that challenges like piracy, illegal fishing, and crude oil theft threaten the stability and development of the maritime sector. Ensuring maritime security is therefore crucial for maximizing the benefits of the Blue Economy and the overall well-being of Nigerians.

    The workshop aims to bring together experts from the maritime industry, government, academia, and other stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions for maritime challenges. This includes leveraging modern technologies to combat maritime crimes and promoting sustainable economic activities. Ogalla praised the IMION for organizing the event, noting its role in addressing maritime security issues and contributing to the Blue Economy’s success.

    On his part, The Director General of IMION, Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia Rtd highlighted the workshop’s purpose and scope, underscoring its alignment with the government’s focus on enhancing maritime capabilities and promoting sustainable economic growth through the blue economy.

    Established on June 1, 2024, IMION aims to enhance maritime research, bridge knowledge gaps, and foster partnerships both within Nigeria and internationally. Udofia outlined the workshop’s focus on maritime security and the Blue Economy, emphasizing that these elements are essential for sustainable development.

    Rear Admiral Udofia praised Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff, for his pivotal role in founding the institute and supporting its mission. The workshop will cover various aspects of maritime security and the blue economy, including infrastructure, coastal community safety, and surveillance. Participants will engage in practical exercises and discussions to enhance their understanding and capability to contribute effectively to Nigeria’s maritime development.

    “The security of our maritime domain is essential for unlocking the full potential of our blue economy,” Udofia stated. “A peaceful and secure maritime environment is vital for the sustainable development of our marine resources. This workshop aims to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to support and protect these resources, fostering economic prosperity and sustainable development.”

    The workshop will generate comprehensive reports and recommendations for relevant government ministries, departments, and agencies. By addressing maritime security challenges and exploring opportunities within the blue economy, IMION and its partners hope to drive significant advancements in Nigeria’s maritime sector, benefiting both national and international stakeholders.

  • KAYODE EGBETOKUN: CSOs Urge President Tinubu To Clarify IGP Tenure Extension Controversy

    KAYODE EGBETOKUN: CSOs Urge President Tinubu To Clarify IGP Tenure Extension Controversy

    Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) across Nigeria have expressed concern over the ongoing controversy surrounding the potential extension of the tenure of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun. The CSOs are urging President Bola Tinubu to clarify the situation and ensure transparency in the decision-making process, which could have significant implications for the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and public trust in the country’s law enforcement system.

    The controversy stems from a letter, purportedly signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), that suggests an extension of IGP Egbetokun’s tenure. The letter, however, has raised questions about its legitimacy and the legal grounds for the extension, especially given that the IGP has reportedly reached the mandatory retirement age under the Police Act of 2020.

    In their statement, the CSOs highlighted concerns that any move to extend the IGP’s tenure without presidential assent or proper legal backing could be perceived as an unlawful action. They warned that such a move could create discontent within the NPF, particularly among officers who may feel their career progression is being stifled, leading to potential indiscipline and a decline in police morale.

    The CSOs also noted that tenure extensions for senior officers could undermine efforts to reform the police force, which has been plagued by various structural issues. They stressed the importance of adhering to public service rules and appointing capable leadership within the force to promote stability and accountability.

    “We believe IGP Egbetokun should be replaced in line with the provisions of the Police Act to ensure that due process is followed and that capable leadership is promoted within the force,” the statement read. The CSOs further emphasized that President Tinubu’s handling of the issue would have far-reaching consequences for governance and public trust in Nigeria’s security institutions.

    The coalition of CSOs calling for transparency includes prominent organisations such as the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), Amnesty International Nigeria, and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), among others.

    They collectively urged the government to respect the law, ensure clarity in its decision-making, and avoid actions that could undermine the integrity of the police force.

    The outcome of this controversy is likely to shape future reforms within Nigeria’s law enforcement agencies, and the CSOs are calling on President Tinubu to act decisively to protect the credibility of the NPF and uphold the principles of good governance.

  • RASHEED BOLARINWA: NIPR Appoints New Head For FinanceHub Committee

    RASHEED BOLARINWA: NIPR Appoints New Head For FinanceHub Committee

    The Governing Council of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has announced the appointment of Rasheed Bolarinwa, President of the Association of Communication and Marketing Professionals in Banks (ACAMB), as the Chairman of its newly established FinanceHub Committee. This committee, which encompasses the banking, insurance, and pensions sectors, aims to advance sustainable Public Relations practices within the finance industry.

    Bolarinwa, who currently serves as the Head of Brand Management and Corporate Communication at Polaris Bank, brings a wealth of experience from journalism, public relations, and the financial sector. His appointment is expected to significantly enhance the committee’s efforts to promote robust PR practices in the finance sector.

    The FinanceHub Committee is part of a broader initiative by NIPR to create specialized sectoral hubs. Other key appointments include Mrs. Thelma Okoh for the Maritime Hub, Dr. Jossy Nkwocha for the Energy Hub, and Mr. Basil Agboarumi for the Aviation Hub. Additionally, Dr. Ahmad Sajoh will lead the Anti-Corruption and Consumer Protection Hub, while Miss Chimdi Neliaku will head the Young Practitioners Hub.

    The nomination letters for these positions were signed by Uzoma Onyegbadue, the Registrar/Secretary to the NIPR Governing Council. The establishment of these sectoral hubs is aimed at fostering sustainable and effective public relations practices across various sectors.

    During the inauguration of the chairpersons and committee members, Dr. Ike Neliaku, National President of NIPR, expressed his satisfaction with the appointments. He emphasized that the selection of the nominees reflects the trust and confidence the NIPR council has in their expertise and dedication. Neliaku, alongside other governing council members, pledged support for the new sectoral hubs and expressed enthusiasm for the collaborative efforts ahead.

    “We look forward to working with you all to make a positive impact on public relations practices within your respective sectors,” Neliaku stated.

    The new committee and sectoral hub chairpersons are expected to play a crucial role in enhancing PR practices and contributing to the development of their respective industries in Nigeria.

  • Polaris Bank, Nigeria Conservation Foundation Extend Tree Planting Initiative To Kano

    Polaris Bank, Nigeria Conservation Foundation Extend Tree Planting Initiative To Kano

    Polaris Bank Limited, in collaboration with the Nigeria Conservation Foundation (NCF), has taken its tree planting initiative aimed at promoting land restoration and environmental sustainability to Kano State. The commemorative tree planting event took place on Friday, August 30, 2024, at the Ajingi Community Reserve, Kunkurawa, Kano.

    This initiative is part of the Bank’s ongoing efforts to support environmental preservation, having launched the scheme in June 2024 to commemorate World Environment Day. The global theme for 2024—”Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience”—guides the project, which began at the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED), Ijagun, Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

    Mahmud Kawu, Polaris Bank’s Divisional Head for the North, representing the Bank’s Managing Director/CEO, emphasized the importance of sustainability to the organization’s mission. In his message, Kawu stated, “At Polaris Bank, sustainability is more than a catchphrase; it’s the core of who we are. Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in every aspect of our operations, from promoting responsible banking and empowering communities to tackling environmental challenges and driving economic growth.”

    Kawu highlighted that the Bank’s partnership with the NCF aligns with its commitment to supporting sustainable economic growth and the importance of environmental preservation. He encouraged residents of Kano to actively participate in the tree-planting initiative to ensure the long-term success of environmental conservation efforts.

    The event further underscored the significance of the project in promoting a greener future, reducing carbon footprints, and raising public awareness about environmental sustainability. “The benefits of our tree-planting initiative cannot be overemphasized. It contributes significantly to the restoration of degraded areas, prevention of soil erosion, and enhancement of biodiversity,” Kawu explained.

    He concluded by reaffirming Polaris Bank’s dedication to environmental stewardship through corporate responsibility, highlighting the Bank’s role in supporting a sustainable and eco-friendly future for all.

  • President Tinubu’s Consumer Credit Scheme Kicks Off With Civil Servants Nationwide

    President Tinubu’s Consumer Credit Scheme Kicks Off With Civil Servants Nationwide

    L-R: Risk Officer ,Credit Direct; Gboyega Adelowore , MD/ CEO, CREDICORP, Uzoma Nwagba; Executive Director, Creditcorp, Nike Kolawole;MD/CEO, Credit Direct, Chukwuma Nwanze;Divisional Head Embedded Finance, Faith Ojeiku , during the official singing of agreement between Nigerian Credit Corporation and Credit Direct to kickstart President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Consumer Credit Scheme in Lagos on Tuesday.

    The Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) has kicked off disbursement of consumer credit to economically active Nigerians nationwide, through its growing list of participating financial institutions (PFIs).
    In this first wave of institutions is Credit Direct, Nigeria’s largest lender to civil servants nationwide, and a subsidiary of the FCMB Group. At a signing event today, CREDICORP announced the partnership with Credit Direct to accelerate mass access to consumer credit starting with civil servants across the country. Beginning this September, this kickoff offers discounted direct consumer credit to over 15,000 civil servants per round. Civil servants on IPPIS now benefit from exclusive offers with reduced interest rates and flexible repayment plans for purchase of domestic goods, mobility, medical care, electronics and other household needs. The initiative is part of a much broader effort to support the well-being of Nigerians, which aligns with CREDICORP’s mission to accelerate consumer credit access to 50% of economically active Nigerians by 2030.”We are excited to partner with Credit Direct to kick off President Tinubu’s consumer credit scheme with civil servants as Mr. President had promised,” said Uzoma Nwagba, CEO of CREDICORP. “By going through Credit Direct today, and subsequently our other financial institutions coming on stream in the next days and weeks as we target 500,000 civil servants, they can access instant and affordable credit to cushion economic shocks or afford consumer goods to improve the quality of their lives. This is just the start of a long and exciting journey with many parts, and linkages that ultimately catalyse local industries as we expand consumption.”Chukwuma Nwanze, CEO of Credit Direct, emphasized the importance of the partnership in fostering financial inclusion. “Our civil servants are vital to the nation’s growth and stability, and we are committed to supporting them with accessible credit facilities. This partnership with CREDICORP allows us to extend our services to more individuals, ensuring that all civil servants can access the funds they need quickly and easily, up to N3.5 million depending on their income and need. Over the past 17 years, Credit Direct has positively impacted the lives of millions of customers across Nigeria. With a presence in all 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, through branches and digital channels, we continue to serve working-class Nigerians nationwide.”Key Features of the Credit Offer:- Lowest Interest Rates: Starting from September 3, 2024, civil servants will access loans at lowest interest rates on the market. Applicants can access a wide range, and up to N3.5 million, depending on their income and need.- Flexible Repayment Plans: Customized repayment schedules designed to meet the unique needs of each borrower.- Quick and Easy Application Process: Streamlined procedures ensure fast access to funds, making it easier for civil servants to manage their financial needs. For more information about the special credit offer and eligibility criteria, please visit www.creditdirect.ng or contact the customer service center at 0700CREDITDIRECT, 02014482225, 0201700512.About CREDICORPThe Nigeria Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) is a government-owned development finance institution committed to enhancing consumer credit access for Nigerians. By addressing structural barriers and providing capital, guarantees, policy support and cultural reorientation, CREDICORP works towards an economically inclusive Nigeria where every working citizen can build personal equity and access essential consumer credit to improve the quality of their lives.
    MD/ CEO CREDICORP , Uzoma Nwagba with MD/CEO Credit Direct, Chukwuma Nwanze, during official singing of agreement between Nigerian Credit Corporation and Credit Direct to kickstart president Bola Tinubu’s Consumer Credit Scheme in Lagos, on Tuesday.

  • NIGER-DELTA: Again NN Arrests 6 Suspected Oil Thieves, Seizes Stolen Crude, Destroys Illegal Refineries

    NIGER-DELTA: Again NN Arrests 6 Suspected Oil Thieves, Seizes Stolen Crude, Destroys Illegal Refineries

    The Nigerian Navy has made significant strides in its ongoing fight against crude oil theft and illegal refining activities in the Niger Delta, under the auspices of Operation DELTA SANITY. Between Thursday, August 29, and Monday, September 2, 2024, naval units conducted multiple successful operations, leading to the arrest of suspected oil thieves, the seizure of stolen crude oil, and the destruction of illegal refining sites.

    On August 29, Navy operatives intercepted seven large Cotonou boats and two fiber boats operated by heavily armed oil thieves who were in the process of loading crude oil from an illegal loading point in the Botokiri axis of Nembe Local Government Area, Bayelsa State. The successful operation resulted in the seizure of the vessels, effectively disrupting the illegal activities in the area.

    Further successes were recorded on August 31, when six suspected crude oil thieves were arrested along the Ogboinbiri-Kasama-Azama-Isoni axis in Bayelsa State. The suspects were found in possession of 109 sacks of illegally refined petroleum products, four fiber boats, and two wooden boats, all of which were seized by the Navy.

    The operations continued on September 1, with Navy units seizing two wooden boats and 328 sacks of illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO) at Otuogori community river bank in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. The following day, September 2, another operation led to the seizure of 35 sacks of illegally refined AGO in a wooden boat at the Gbaraun area of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Bayelsa State.

    These operations highlight the effectiveness of Operation DELTA SANITY and demonstrate the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to eradicating crude oil theft and illegal refining activities in Nigeria’s maritime environment. The Navy’s efforts are crucial in ensuring the protection of Nigeria’s oil resources and enhancing crude oil production in the region.

    The Director of Information for the Nigerian Navy, Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, emphasized the Navy’s resolve to continue its aggressive stance against oil theft and illegal refining. He urged the general public to support the Navy’s efforts by reporting any suspicious activities in the maritime domain.

    The Nigerian Navy remains steadfast in its mission to safeguard the nation’s oil assets and contribute to the stability and security of the Niger Delta region.

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