Category: Maritime Sector

The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Tin Can Island Port (TCIP), Comptroller Dera Nnadi, has urged stakeholders to ensure full compliance with customs regulations as the command enters the final quarter of 2024. Speaking during a meeting at the command headquarters amid ongoing renovations, Nnadi emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean environment and warned against attempts to circumvent customs procedures.

Comptroller Dera Nnadi, held a meeting with stakeholders on September 30, 2024, to address new operational modalities at the command and emphasize the importance of compliance. During the informal session, which took place at the area command headquarters, Comptroller Nnadi reiterated his commitment to making 2024 “A Year for Stakeholders,” stressing that the well-being of those conducting business at the command remains a priority for him, the command, and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

With the year entering its final quarter, Nnadi commended stakeholders for their efforts in ensuring the command’s revenue targets are met. He urged them to maintain high levels of compliance, noting that full cooperation is essential for achieving the command’s goals. “All hands on deck can make it happen,” he said, as he encouraged stakeholders to work together to maximize revenue collection before year-end.

Addressing the challenges typically faced during the ember months, particularly towards the end of the year, the CAC assured that traders who make genuine declarations would not experience unnecessary delays. However, he warned those attempting to circumvent the system that they would be held accountable for any infractions, making it clear that “cutting corners will not be tolerated.”

Comptroller Nnadi also highlighted the availability of space for stakeholders at newly crested bonded terminals within the TCIP. However, he noted that the command headquarters is still undergoing renovations, and no additional space has yet been allocated for business operations. He promised to address this issue and assured stakeholders that improvements are underway. In the interim, he urged all parties to maintain cleanliness within the premises while awaiting the distribution of new waste bins at designated locations. Nnadi emphasized that a clean environment promotes a healthy lifestyle and reflects positively on the business community.

The meeting concluded with an interactive session, during which the CAC responded to stakeholders’ questions and concerns. He assured them that all issues raised would be addressed promptly, with the assistance of the Public Relations Officers (PROs) of the respective stakeholder groups.

As renovations at the TCIP continue, Comptroller Nnadi reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring a conducive environment for business while upholding the highest standards of compliance and public health.

In a major crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal refining activities, the Nigerian Navy, as part of Operation DELTA SANITY, has destroyed several illegal refineries and arrested eight suspects across the Niger Delta between September 2 and 23, 2024. The operation, which spanned multiple states, resulted in the dismantling of 19 illegal refining sites and the seizure of large quantities of stolen crude oil and refined products.

The operations spanned across several states, including Bayelsa, Rivers, Delta, Ondo, Akwa Ibom, and Lagos. The Navy uncovered and dismantled 19 illegal refining sites, seized 25 wooden boats, and confiscated 138 sacks filled with stolen crude oil.

On September 2, 2024, an illegal refining site and two wooden boats were destroyed at Isonogbene in Bayelsa State, along with the seizure of 28 sacks containing suspected illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO). On September 4, Navy personnel seized three wooden boats and a speedboat loaded with stolen crude oil in the Brass River area of Nembe, Bayelsa State.

By September 5, 2024, two illegal refinery sites were dismantled, and several boats and reservoirs filled with crude oil were seized in the Bonny Channel area of Rivers State. Four days later, on September 9, 2024, two illegal refining sites with wooden boats and other equipment were destroyed in Okporoza creek, Delta State.

On September 10, 2024, a newly constructed illegal refinery was destroyed in Ondo State, with a reservoir and a dugout pit filled with crude oil being seized. Two suspected sea robbers were also apprehended on September 12, 2024, in Akwa Ibom State.

The Navy arrested one suspect on September 14, 2024, and dismantled four illegal refining sites, seizing 48 sacks of refined AGO in Bayelsa State. A few days later, on September 22, 2024, five suspects were apprehended near Ibeju Lekki, Lagos State, along with a wooden boat loaded with stolen crude oil.

The following day, on September 23, 2024, a vehicle carrying 50 sacks of refined AGO was intercepted in Rivers State, while another illegal refining site was destroyed in Abua/Odua Local Government Area.

Throughout the operation, the Navy destroyed 19 illegal refinery sites, confiscated 26 reservoirs, 19 ovens, 12 dugout pits, and arrested eight suspects. The Navy’s commitment to combating oil theft remains strong, with continued efforts to safeguard Nigeria’s maritime and economic interests.

On September 27, 2024, 20 officers graduated from the Joint Maritime Security Training Center (JMSTC) following a rigorous month-long training program. Commodore Benjamin Francis, Commander of the JMSTC, highlighted the success of the program during the graduation ceremony, which began on September 2, 2024. The training focused on vital maritime operations, including Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) techniques, with participants undergoing extensive drills and exercises.

Commodore Francis expressed his confidence in the participants, noting their excellent performance. He stated, “The training provided an opportunity for the participants to learn all the boarding techniques and perform various drills. Their execution was very, very excellent, and I have no doubt that they will leverage this opportunity in the field.”

The program, which was supported by the Chief of Naval Staff, involved collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and international partners. Six of the graduates have already embarked on their first mission aboard Nigeria’s DB Abuja, participating in a VBSS operation as part of a passage exercise with the visiting Spanish ship, “Bama Matero”.

Capt. Tom Pycock of the Royal Marines’ 42 Commando praised the professionalism and dedication of the Nigerian Special Boat Service (SBS), which took part in specialized VBSS and counterinsurgency training. Capt. Pycock emphasized the growth in the SBS’s capability, stating, “We’ve covered everything from close quarter combat to long-distance sniper shooting and boarding operations. The Nigerian SBS is a very capable force, and the training has been a mutually beneficial learning experience.”

The training program utilized advanced facilities, including a ship simulation setup and a newly developed counterinsurgency village, enhancing the training environment for Nigerian forces. Both Nigerian and international instructors acknowledged the strong collaboration, and there is hope that similar future training opportunities will continue to build upon the operational readiness of Nigerian maritime forces.

Commodore Francis closed the ceremony by reiterating the importance of sustaining these collaborative training efforts to combat maritime crimes, such as piracy, and enhance Nigeria’s maritime security.

The National President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, paid a highly anticipated oversight visit to the Ogun I Chapter of COWA, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to the welfare of Customs officers’ families. During the visit, Mrs. Adeniyi awarded scholarships to 54 students and provided much-needed support to widows of fallen officers.

The event, held at the Ogun I Area Command in Idiroko, brought together dignitaries, including the Area Controller, Comptroller James Ojo, senior Customs officers, members of the COWA National Executive Committee, and families of Customs officers. Princess Folu-Ojo Adenike, Chairperson of the COWA Ogun I Chapter, warmly welcomed the National President, highlighting her dedication to improving the lives of Customs officers’ families across Nigeria.

In her speech, Mrs. Adeniyi commended the Ogun I Chapter for its resilience and solidarity, especially given the unique challenges faced by Customs families in border regions like Idiroko. She emphasized the importance of community support, saying, “As wives and mothers, we know firsthand the anxieties, fears, and sacrifices that come with having our loved ones on the frontlines. Your unwavering support is a vital source of inspiration that helps them carry out their duties diligently.”

The visit was marked by the commissioning of new projects, scholarships to 54 students from Nigeria Customs’ Secondary and Primary/Nursery schools, and the distribution of writing materials, including books and math sets, to aid their educational journey. In a show of compassion, over 50 widows of Customs officers received palliatives aimed at improving their livelihoods, a gesture that reinforced COWA’s commitment to empowering the families of serving and fallen officers.

Mrs. Adeniyi also stressed the importance of capacity building among COWA members, encouraging women to continuously improve their skills and knowledge to support their families and contribute meaningfully to society. “When women grow, families thrive, and societies prosper,” she remarked, urging members of the Ogun I Chapter to take advantage of the training programs offered by COWA.

In closing, both Mrs. Adeniyi and Princess Folu-Ojo Adenike reiterated the need for unity and cooperation within the organization, with Mrs. Adeniyi adding, “Internal unity is the cornerstone of our success, and I trust that you will continue to promote this in all your activities.”

The visit further solidified COWA’s role as a vital support network for Customs officers’ families, ensuring their welfare is prioritized, especially in challenging border regions.

The Spanish Naval Warship BAM METEORO has arrived in Nigerian waters, marking the second visit by the Spanish Navy in the past year. The ship’s arrival is part of the European Union’s Coordinated Maritime Presence initiative, aimed at enhancing security in the Gulf of Guinea.

During the welcoming ceremony, Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding the Western Naval Command, highlighted the significance of the visit. He praised the Spanish Navy’s ongoing collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, noting that the ship has been patrolling the waters without any negative reports—a testament to the effective suppression of maritime crime in the region. Rear Admiral Hassan emphasized the evolving partnership, with plans for joint exercises and the introduction of Nigerian officers as sea riders on the Spanish vessel to foster knowledge exchange and cooperation.

In his remarks, Ambassador Juan Ignacio praised the deepening relationship between the two navies, describing it as a true partnership. He expressed satisfaction with the progress made in maritime security, noting a decrease in piracy and criminal activities. The Ambassador underscored the importance of continuous engagement and collaboration, highlighting the significance of the Nigerian Navy’s leadership in regional maritime security.

Ambassador Ignacio also announced that two Nigerian Navy officers will join the BAM METEORO for the remainder of its deployment, a move aimed at enhancing mutual understanding and operational synergy. He expressed optimism about the evolving partnership and the ongoing efforts to address maritime security challenges collectively.

Accompanying the Ambassador were Deputy Head of Mission Maria Higon, Lt Cdr Inigo Franco, Lt Miguel Lopez, Lt Francisco Lamas, Sub-Lt Jose Seco, and other officers from the Spanish ship.

The visit underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthening their maritime security cooperation and advancing their strategic partnership in the Gulf of Guinea.

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.

…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.

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.