Category: International News

  • Comptroller Wale Adenuga Takes Over the leadership of Seme Area Command

    Comptroller Wale Adenuga Takes Over the leadership of Seme Area Command

    …vows to Deepen Trade Facilitation and Make the Seme Border a Nigeria’s Pride

    The Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, has witnessed a seamless change of leadership as Comptroller Wale Adenuga formally took over the mantle of leadership of the Command yesterday at the ECOWAS Joint Border Post, Seme-Krake Border Post.

    According to the press statement signed by CSC Isah Sulaiman, Public Relations Officer
    Seme Area Command, the handing over ceremony brought together senior officials from sister security agencies, representatives of trade and transport stakeholders, community leaders and members of the Fourth Estate.

    In his inaugural address, Comptroller Wale Adenuga praised the outgoing CAC for his achievements and pledged to consolidate on them. He outlined his vision for the Command, placing trade facilitation at the heart of his leadership. “Trade facilitation is my keyword,” he stated.

    “When stakeholders make proper declarations, their consignments will leave Customs control within the shortest possible time. The more we facilitate trade, the more revenue we generate and the less smuggling we have,” he added.

    Adenuga pledged to collaborate closely with sister agencies, including the DSS, Nigeria Police, Immigration, NDLEA, Nigerian Military, NAFDAC and others to reduce crime and create a conducive environment for business to thrive. He also committed to maintaining open communications with the traditional rulers, the youth of Badagry and the media and assured all that “his doors remain open”.

    He promised to lead from the front and ensure officers remain disciplined and committed to their responsibility and not to compromise their duties.

    Acknowledging the leadership of the CGC, who is also the President of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council and the first Nigerian to hold the role, Comptroller Adenuga stressed the need to make the CGC proud through exemplary performance.

    In his farewell remarks, ACG Oramalugo described the day as one of “mixed emotions” joy at God’s faithfulness and his promotion, but nostalgia for the bonds built during his time in Seme. He highlighted key achievements under his leadership, including sustained suppression of smuggling with significant seizures of prohibited goods. Improved revenue collection and enhanced trade facilitation to ease legitimate business while safeguarding national security, as well as fostering inter-agency cooperation and community engagement, among others.

    He expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs and NCS Management for their support, thanked his officers for their loyalty and discipline and urged all stakeholders to extend “even greater support” to his successor.

    The ceremony featured goodwill messages from heads of sister agencies and stakeholders, including the Comptroller of Immigration at the Joint Border Post, Comptroller of Immigration Land Border Patrol, Nigeria Shippers Council, NDLEA, FRSC, among others.

    The event ended with a collective pledge from all agencies and stakeholders to work in synergy with the new leadership to boost revenue, curb smuggling, enhance security and promote seamless trade at the Seme Border.

  • Apapa Port Gets New Customs Leader as Oshoba Targets Efficiency and Compliance

    Apapa Port Gets New Customs Leader as Oshoba Targets Efficiency and Compliance

    Comptroller Oluwadare Oshoba on Monday officially assumed duty as the new Customs Area Controller of the Apapa Area Command, Nigeria’s busiest port, pledging to consolidate on past achievements and chart fresh paths in revenue generation, enforcement, and stakeholder engagement.

    Speaking at the official handover ceremony held at the Command headquarters, Oshoba expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the NCS management for the confidence reposed in him, assuring of his commitment to deliver on the Service’s mandate.

    He outlined three key pillars of his leadership agenda: enhancing revenue collection through transparency and accountability, deepening enforcement with intelligence-driven operations, and strengthening partnerships with port stakeholders.

    “Trade facilitation and compliance are two sides of the same coin. The port community is our partner in progress, and together we must work to improve efficiency while safeguarding national interests,” Oshoba said.

    The new CAC also emphasized the importance of technology and modernization, vowing to build on the gains of the Unified Customs Management System (B’Odogwu) and push forward other trade facilitation programmes such as the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO), Time Release Study (TRS), and Advanced Ruling (AR).

    “As Nigeria currently chairs the World Customs Organization Council, we must lead by example in compliance, innovation, and service delivery,” he added.

    In his farewell remarks, the outgoing Area Controller, now Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Babatunde Olomu, fsi, PhD, reflected on his 15-month tenure, describing it as a period of remarkable milestones for the Command.

    He disclosed that under his watch, Apapa Command achieved record-breaking revenue performance, including a historic ₦2 trillion annual collection and daily collections peaking at ₦18.9 billion. As of September 8, 2025, the Command had already generated ₦1.83 trillion, representing 60 percent of its ₦3 trillion target for the year.

    Olomu also highlighted landmark trade facilitation achievements, including Nigeria’s historic first shipment under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in July 2024 and subsequent shipments that positioned the country as an active participant in intra-African trade.

    On enforcement, he revealed that the Command made 75 seizures in 15 months, comprising 62 containers of 40ft and 13 containers of 20ft loaded with fake, expired, and prohibited items such as controlled drugs, Indian hemp, and used clothing.

    Expressing gratitude to officers, stakeholders, and sister agencies, Olomu urged them to extend even greater cooperation to his successor. “As Oliver Twist, I ask that you do more for Comptroller Oshoba, who is fully capable of taking this Command to greater heights,” he said.

    The ceremony was attended by Customs Comptrollers, terminal and unit heads, port stakeholders, and representatives of sister security and regulatory agencies.

  • Nationwide Military Operations Yield Significant Gains Against Terror Threat

    Nationwide Military Operations Yield Significant Gains Against Terror Threat

    The Nigerian Army has recorded fresh successes in its nationwide counter-terrorism and anti-crime operations, neutralising two terrorists, arresting seven suspects—including a female logistics supplier—and recovering weapons, petroleum products, and a stolen vehicle between September 4 and 6, 2025.

    In Borno State, troops of 192 Battalion with the Hybrid Force engaged Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters near Kwatara Kasa Village along the Gwoza–Limankara Road. Following a fierce firefight, one terrorist was neutralised while others fled towards the Mandara Mountains.

    In Adamawa State, troops of 232 Battalion intercepted two suspected petroleum smugglers in Mubi South Local Government Area with 19 jerrycans of petroleum products loaded on motorcycles.

    Troops in Zamfara State, acting on intelligence and in coordination with the Department of State Services (DSS), arrested a female logistics supplier linked to notorious terrorist kingpin Ado Aliero. The suspect, apprehended at Kucheri in Tsafe LGA, was found with a mobile phone, ₦37,000 cash, and other items. She confessed to also being a drug peddler.

    In the Federal Capital Territory, troops of 176 Guards Battalion mounted a snap roadblock to intercept a stolen vehicle traced from Osun State. Although the suspects initially fled, they were tracked to a hotel in Gwagwalada, where three were arrested. Troops recovered the stolen vehicle, 11 mobile phones, and ₦29,700 cash, before handing the suspects and exhibits over to the police.

    Similarly, in Plateau State, troops of Operation Enduring Peace secured a breakthrough after interrogating a terrorist informant arrested at Dadin Kowa on September 4. He led troops to a hidden weapons cache in Mista Ali Village, Bassa LGA. However, he attempted to escape and was neutralised. Two AK-47 rifles were recovered from the site, and efforts are ongoing to track his accomplices.

    The Army said the operations highlight its determination to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt criminal activities, and recover illicit arms nationwide.

    It reiterated its commitment to sustaining security operations that will create safer conditions for agriculture and economic activities in line with the Federal Government’s food security agenda.

  • Fidelity Bank Leads Charge for Non-Oil Export Growth

    Fidelity Bank Leads Charge for Non-Oil Export Growth

    Nigeria’s diversification drive has gathered momentum in recent years as government initiatives push to reduce dependence on crude oil and strengthen non-oil sectors as engines of growth. From the Central Bank of Nigeria’s RT200 programme to incentives offered by the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), the country has implemented policies designed to encourage exporters, boost foreign exchange inflows, and integrate local enterprises into global value chains.

    Complementing these efforts, Fidelity Bank Plc has steadily positioned itself as one of the private-sector leaders advancing the country’s non-oil export agenda. Through its flagship initiative—the Fidelity Nigeria International Trade & Creative Connect (FNITCC), the bank has built a global platform that links Nigerian exporters with international buyers, diaspora markets, and strategic investors.

    For a country where oil revenues remain vulnerable to global shocks, FNITCC is more than a corporate innovation. It is a deliberate tool to help Nigeria unlock new streams of foreign exchange, strengthen small businesses, and showcase the creativity and resilience of its people to the world.

    Beyond Commodities: A Broader Vision

    The design of FNITCC reflects Fidelity’s conviction that Nigeria’s future global competitiveness lies not only in raw commodities but also in value-added goods and services. The expo has created space for agriculture and consumer-packaged goods, but equally for sectors such as fashion, cosmetics, fintech, and the wider creative economy.

    The federal government has also increasingly emphasized the need for value addition rather than the mere export of raw commodities. A recent policy directive on shea butter, for instance, underscores this shift by encouraging local processors to refine and package the product before it leaves Nigeria. The move aligns with broader industrialisation and job-creation objectives, while ensuring that the country captures more value across the production chain—a goal that platforms like FNITCC are now helping to actualize by connecting these upgraded products to international markets.

    FNITCC events are immersive and deliberately multi-sectoral.

    They combine product exhibitions, breakout sessions, diaspora investment panels, curated workshops, art displays, and even theatrical and fashion performances. The aim is clear: to connect the breadth of Nigerian enterprise to global markets, while ensuring that exporters are able to meet international standards and access the finance required to scale.

    In a statement announcing this year’s FNITCC, Fidelity Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, said: “Since 2022 when we hosted the maiden edition, FNITCC has evolved beyond a platform for promoting Nigeria’s non-oil exports to become a veritable showcase of the immense value Nigeria has to offer the global market.”

    London to Houston to Atlanta: Showcasing Nigeria on the Global Stage

    The FNITCC journey began in London in November 2022. Hosted at the Novotel London West, the inaugural event drew more than 100 exhibitors and 90 speakers, attracting over 1,000 daily attendees. It unlocked trade and investment deals worth about $250 million, validating the proposition that Nigerian businesses could compete abroad if given the right exposure and institutional support.

    A year later, the platform moved to Houston, Texas a city known for its energy base but also home to one of the largest Nigerian diaspora communities in the United States. FNITCC Houston, held in October 2023, attracted over 160 Nigerian and U.S.-based businesses across fintech, commodities, fashion, agriculture, and creative industries. The highlight was a landmark $40 million pre-export finance facility in favour of JohnVents Industries, one of Nigeria’s fast-rising cocoa exporters. The facility, arranged by Afreximbank with Fidelity Bank as the local administrative agent, demonstrated how trade promotion could be matched with access to finance to deliver real outcomes for exporters.

    This month, September 18-20, 2025, FNITCC is heading to Atlanta, Georgia. The choice is deliberate: Atlanta has become a hub for Black entrepreneurship, cultural exchange, and diaspora investment in the United States. Its large Nigerian and African diaspora population provides a ready market for ethnic and value-added products, while its robust chambers of commerce and international trade networks make it an attractive gateway for exporters. Fidelity is also partnering with Amplify Africa, the organizers of AFRICON, one of the largest African diaspora business and culture summits in the U.S., to amplify the reach of this edition.

    By situating FNITCC in Atlanta, Fidelity Bank is tapping into a dynamic U.S. market and aligning with diaspora-led networks that can act as long-term anchors for trade and investment flows.

    Onyeali-Ikpe added: “As part of our commitment to developing platforms that promote economic growth, creativity, and sustainable trade both within Nigeria and internationally, we are pleased to announce the third edition of FNITCC. Since 2022, when we hosted the inaugural edition, the FNITCC expo has been at the heart of driving global market access for local businesses, and I am delighted that this year we will be in the city of Atlanta, USA.”

    Consolidating Success and Expanding Scope

    Between the London and Houston editions, FNITCC generated a consolidated deal pipeline of over $500 million. For Nigeria, where non-oil exports are still under $5 billion annually, this is a significant achievement. It demonstrates the potential of structured, private-sector-led platforms to complement government diversification policies with measurable outcomes.

    FNITCC Atlanta is expected to attract more than 3,000 participants—including exporters, U.S. buyers, policymakers, investors, multinational corporations, and development finance institutions. Programming highlights include B2B matchmaking sessions, policy dialogues, diaspora investment roundtables, and sector-specific workshops. Strategic sectors in focus will include agriculture, consumer goods, energy transition minerals, fashion, beauty, and creative services.

    By positioning exporters side-by-side with financiers, regulators, and global buyers, FNITCC provides the missing ecosystem Nigerian businesses often lack when venturing into foreign markets.

    Nigeria’s FX Outlook and the Case for Diversification

    The timing of Fidelity’s intervention could not be more strategic. The naira has shown greater stability in recent months, supported by a mix of policy reforms and improving inflows, helping to restore investor confidence in the broader economy. With global attention once again turning to Nigeria’s vast potential, this is an opportune moment to deepen non-oil export growth.

    The long-term case remains clear: as the world transitions away from fossil fuels, Nigeria cannot afford to depend solely on crude oil revenues. Building new, resilient export pillars is essential to sustaining growth, creating jobs, and securing foreign exchange inflows that are less vulnerable to commodity price swings.

    FNITCC sits at the heart of this shift. By showcasing value-added goods, creating structured access to global markets, and linking exporters to international buyers, the platform helps convert Nigeria’s comparative advantages into tangible competitiveness. In doing so, it strengthens the broader diversification drive while reinforcing the growing sense of economic optimism.

    A Shared Path to Diversification

    Ultimately, what makes FNITCC unique is its ability to bring together policy, finance, and culture under a single umbrella. It complements government-led initiatives and continental frameworks like AfCFTA by giving exporters practical exposure to international markets. It also addresses the financing gap through partnerships with institutions such as Afreximbank, ensuring that deals struck at the expos are not just ceremonial but backed by capital. And by spotlighting Nigeria’s creative and service industries, fashion, fintech, music, and art, FNITCC underscores the country’s growing soft power as a source of foreign exchange in its own right.

    In this way, FNITCC is more than an exhibition; it is a platform for national transformation. It embodies the collaboration between government policy and private initiative, while providing exporters the tools to compete on a global stage. From London to Houston and now Atlanta, it has grown into an institution that is helping Nigeria move closer to the long-held dream of economic diversification, reinforcing optimism that the non-oil sector can become the bedrock of a more resilient, export-led economy.

  • Armed Forces Resettlement Centre Boosts Economic Readiness With 32 New Graduates

    Armed Forces Resettlement Centre Boosts Economic Readiness With 32 New Graduates

    The Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC), Oshodi, has celebrated the graduation of 32 officers from the Mid and Senior Level Entrepreneurship and Management Course (15/2025), marking a significant milestone in the ongoing capacity-building efforts for service personnel transitioning to civilian life.

    Speaking at the colourful ceremony, the Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal BR Mamman (GSS), praised the dedication and discipline of the graduating officers, describing them as “engines of growth, creators of wealth, and drivers of innovation.” The Commandant commended the officers for successfully completing the rigorous 4- to 5-week training programme, designed to equip them with critical entrepreneurial, leadership, and management skills for life during and after service.

    “You have been empowered to shape the future, turn visions into realities, and contribute meaningfully to national development,” AVM Mamman stated. “This course has not only prepared you for entrepreneurial success but also improved your leadership capacity and productivity in service.”

    The course, which is conducted quarterly with the approval of the Chief of Defence Staff, brought together 30 senior officers from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, and Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA). They were joined by 3 staff members from NAFRC, bringing the total to 33 participants. One officer was recalled due to service exigencies, leaving 32 officers who completed the programme successfully.

    Delivering the course overview, Brigadier General IO Olatunji, Director of Training at NAFRC, outlined the objectives and structure of the programme, which featured five core modules: Agriculture, Emotional Intelligence, Business Management & Legal Advisory, Health & Lifestyle, and Entrepreneurship Technical Training.

    The training was conducted in partnership with Empretec Nigeria Foundation, an internationally recognised entrepreneurship development organisation. Participants engaged in practical workshops, business planning exercises, and a highly acclaimed Entrepreneurship Training Workshop (ETW). Group presentations of viable business models were a highlight, with teams creating and pitching innovative business ideas under tight timelines.

    Study Tours and International Exposure

    To complement classroom learning, participants embarked on both local and international study tours. These included:

    Spectra Industries, Agege – for hands-on learning in food processing and packaging.

    National Conservation Centre, Lekki – marking the first-ever visit by an Empretec group to this eco-tourism site, which featured the longest canopy walk in Africa.

    Commint BUKA, Surulere – offering insight into managing a fast-food business in Nigeria.

    Songhai Farms, Port Novo (Benin Republic) – exposing officers to integrated farming, smart agriculture, zero-waste practices, and renewable energy in an international setting.

    These tours were carefully curated to provide practical exposure to various business environments and models, aligning with the Centre’s goal of preparing officers for sustainable post-service ventures.

    Strategic Reentry and National Impact

    The training forms part of NAFRC’s broader effort to prepare military personnel for life beyond the uniform, with a focus on strategic reintegration, economic empowerment, and nation-building. The Commandant emphasized that the revised curriculum and new partnerships such as the Memorandum of Understanding with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) for streamlined business registration further reinforce the Centre’s commitment to excellence.

    In his closing remarks, AVM Mamman extended gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (OFR), for his unwavering support, as well as to Empretec Nigeria Foundation, the course facilitators, and the Service Chiefs for making the training possible. He also expressed deep appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR) for his steadfast leadership and support to the Armed Forces.

    Graduation and Certification

    Following the formal presentations, the 32 participants were officially conferred as graduates of the Senior and Mid-Level Entrepreneurship and Management Course 15/2025. Each received a joint certificate issued by NAFRC and Empretec Nigeria Foundation, in recognition of their successful participation and performance.

  • U.S. Congressional Delegation Pays Official Visit To Western Naval Command Headquarters

    U.S. Congressional Delegation Pays Official Visit To Western Naval Command Headquarters

    On 28 August 2025, a delegation from the United States Congress, led by the U.S. Consul General in Lagos, Mr. Rick Swart, visited the Headquarters of the Western Naval Command (WNC) in Apapa, Lagos. The delegation included Representative Austin Scott (Team Leader), Representative Jimmy Panetta, and Representative Salud Carbajal. The purpose of the visit was to explore avenues for enhancing future security cooperation between the United States and Nigeria.

    While introducing the delegation to the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command (FOC WNC), Mr. Swart emphasized that the visit was part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation in security matters, particularly in support of the Nigerian Navy’s achievements in maritime security operations.

    In his response, Rear Admiral Michael Gregory Oamen acknowledged the long-standing and strategic relationship between Nigeria and the United States, which has endured for several decades. He highlighted the significant benefits the Nigerian Navy derives from this cooperation, particularly regarding efforts to secure the Gulf of Guinea.

    At the conclusion of the meeting, Rear Admiral Oamen conveyed the greetings and appreciation of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral IE Ogalla AM, for the continued support of the United States to the Nigerian Navy. He further expressed hopes for the sustainability of this mutually beneficial partnership.

    Following the courtesy call, the delegation proceeded under the guidance of the Fleet Commander West, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Muhammad – Katsina to visit the Regional Maritime Awareness Capability (RMAC) Centre and NNS KADA.

  • Customs Hands Over Seized Expired Pharmaceutical Products to NAFDAC in Lagos

    Customs Hands Over Seized Expired Pharmaceutical Products to NAFDAC in Lagos

    The Federal Operations Unit Zone A (FOU A) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has handed over various expired pharmaceutical products to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), this was disclosed by Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu during a courtesy visit to the unit by the new NAFDAC Director in charge of enforcement and investigation, Dr. Martin Iluyomade (fsi)

    While addressing journalists at the FOU A headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos, Shuaibu reaffirmed the service’s dedication to upholding the memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the NCS and NAFDAC.

    According to a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs
    Hussaini Abdullahi, he noted that the MoU marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s fight against fake and counterfeit products.

    “What we are witnessing today is a follow up of the MoU,” he stated, “emphasizing the importance of collaboration among regulatory and security agencies to continuously thwart the smuggling and importation of these harmful consignments.”

    The Comptroller mentioned that a total of three trucks filled with various brands of expired pharmaceutical products were being handed over. These include items in sacks and cartons such as Hyergra, Royal Tablets 225, CSC Codine Syrup, Really Extral, Tramadol, Amlodipine, Milk Oil Flavour, and Firegra, among others. The wide range of these products poses serious risks to public health if not properly regulated.It was revealed that the Duty Paid Value (DPV) of the expired pharmaceuticals stood at ₦3,779,500,000.

    The Comptroller emphasized that the service remains committed to ensuring the safety and efficacy of medications. “Expired products must be handled with utmost seriousness,” he warned, adding that “the potential risks to public health from expired or counterfeit products can not be understated.”

    He further assured the public that the service prioritizes the health and safety of Nigerians by preventing expired or counterfeit drugs from circulating in the market.The handover, he noted, is not a one-off event, as more products will be transferred to NAFDAC following the conclusion of ongoing investigations.

    He reiterated the importance of the continued collaboration between NCS and NAFDAC. “This collaborative effort sets a precedent for future actions aimed at ensuring that only safe and effective medications are available to the Nigerian population,” he concluded.

    Receiving the consignments on behalf of the Director General of NAFDAC, Dr. Martin Iluyomade (fsi), a representative of the agency, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its unwavering commitment to the implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between both agencies.

    He lauded the ongoing collaboration, describing it as a “healthy and strategic partnership” and pledged that NAFDAC would redouble its efforts in the fight against the smuggling of counterfeit and fake pharmaceutical products.

  • Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command Visits Executive Governor of Cross River State

    Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command Visits Executive Governor of Cross River State

    The Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral KC Ezete, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Cross River State, His Excellency Senator Bassey Edet Otu, at the Governor’s Office on Tuesday 26 August 2025.

    The FOC was accompanied by a delegation of officers including the Chief Staff Officer Eastern Naval Command, Rear Admiral DM Ndanusa; the Command Operations Officer, Commodore CE Oji; the Commander Nigerian Navy Ship Victory, Commodore A. Oride; and other principal staff officers of the Command.

    During the visit, the Flag Officer Eastern Naval Command, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Navy. He particularly appreciated the Governor for granting the Navy the opportunity to conduct a survey of the Bakassi Deep Sea Port and for supporting the deployment of a security houseboat in the Bakassi area. He also conveyed the appreciation of the Chief of the Naval Staff for the State Government’s continued collaboration with the Navy.

    In his response, Governor Otu warmly welcomed the FOC and his team, commending the Nigerian Navy for its significant role in maintaining maritime security in the state. He acknowledged the Navy’s strong surveillance presence and its contribution to tackling insecurity challenges in the region.

    The Governor further praised the Chief of the Naval staff for his good works , the professionalism of naval personnel and assured the Navy of the State Government’s continuous support and cooperation.

  • COAS Highlights Key Role of Data Management in Boosting Operational Efficiency

    COAS Highlights Key Role of Data Management in Boosting Operational Efficiency

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has stressed the critical role of effective record keeping and data management in enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening strategic decision-making and ensuring accountability within the Nigerian Army.

    According to a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the COAS, who was represented by the Deputy Director General, Nigerian Army Future Heritage and Future Centre (Army), Major General Philip Eromosele, made the assertion at the opening ceremony of the Army Headquarters Department of Military Secretary Data Management and Record Keeping Seminar 2025, held at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess, Asokoro, Abuja.

    He noted that the seminar reflects the Nigerian Army’s commitment to advancing modern approaches to data management and record-keeping.

    General Oluyede explained that accurate data management and efficient record keeping were vital tools for monitoring progress, identifying gaps and effectively addressing emerging security challenges.

    He emphasized the adoption of high standards, particularly in data storage and document security at all levels, as key to driving efficiency across the Nigerian Army.

    Reaffirming the Army’s unalloyed commitment to its constitutional mandate, General Oluyede assured that the Nigerian Army remains resolute in safeguarding the security and unity of Nigeria.

    He further pledged the Nigerian Army’s unflinching loyalty to the Constitution of the Federal Republic and to the President and Commander In Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    In his welcome address, the Military Secretary (Army), Major General Everest Okoro, highlighted that the seminar was to promote excellence in data management and record-keeping practices, in line with global best practices and evolving technological trends.

    He also expressed profound appreciation to the COAS for his exceptional leadership and visionary guidance in steering the Department toward its objectives.

    The seminar with the theme “Effective Data Management and Record Keeping: A Key Element in Ensuring a Professional Nigerian Army in a Digital Era” is expected to last for 3 days.

  • NHO and IHO Conduct Training and Technical Visit to the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria

    NHO and IHO Conduct Training and Technical Visit to the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria

    The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) Eastern Atlantic Hydrographic Commission (EAtHC) delegation, in company of the Director Hydrography, Rear Admiral GE Kwetishe, was warmly received by the Director General of International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION), Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (Rtd).

    The IHO delegation comprised Capt Henri Dolou (Rtd) and Lt Cdr Gabin Sogorb, who also serves as the Capacity Building Coordinator of the EAtHC.

    In his remarks, the Director Hydrography provided an overview of the objectives of the IHO delegation’s visit to Nigeria, underscoring the overarching goal of establishing a Regional Hydrographic Center of Excellence in the country. He emphasized that such a visit would be incomplete without the team engaging with IMION, given its central role in maritime knowledge and strategy development as a Think Tank chamber for the Maritime Stakeholders local and international.

    The visiting IHO Team explained that the exercise forms part of a suitability assessment for establishing a Hydrographic Centre of Excellence for the English-speaking part of the West Africa, which is positively postponed for the slot.

    Lt Cdr Gabin noted the need to train hydrographers, Oceanographers and Cartographers in the region. He also said that outside the West African region only Egypt has such an institute to train individuals in that field of study.

    On his part, the Director General of IMION expressed delight at receiving the IHO team.

    He highlighted IMION’s mandate as a strategic think-tank and research institute aimed at allied stakeholders among the Blue Economy Sector of Nigeria, the Gulf of Guinea nations and the world. He mentioned that IMION is saddled with the responsibility to conduct research in support of Nigeria’s Blue Economy and sustainable ocean governance in which hydrographic factors are key.

    He further commended the efforts of the Nigerian Navy Hydrographic Department (NNHD) in advancing hydrographic development in the country. Additionally, he noted IMION’s readiness to establish strategic collaborations with French maritime institutes, as well as with other international institutions of excellence.

    The visit of the IHO Team further reinforces Nigeria’s position as a key player in regional hydrography and represents another milestone in the country’s quest for greater involvement in global hydrographic initiatives. The visit concluded with an exchange of souvenirs and facility tour of the Institute.

error: Content is protected !!