Category: Maritime Sector

  • COMPTROLLER NNADI: Security, Lighting Issues Hamper Night Operations at Tin Can Port

    COMPTROLLER NNADI: Security, Lighting Issues Hamper Night Operations at Tin Can Port

    Dera Nnadi, the Customs Area Comptroller of Tin Can Port, has shed light on the slow pace of night operations at Tin Can Port, attributing it to significant security and logistical challenges. Speaking at the Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria (MARAN) International Press Center on Friday, Nnadi addressed concerns over the efficiency and frequency of nighttime activities at the port.

    Nnadi explained that the decision to initiate night operations was driven by necessity but has faced multiple obstacles. “Last year’s election significantly impacted our operations,” he noted. “This year, we needed a different approach to tackle ongoing issues, particularly security concerns.”

    A critical issue has been the inaccessibility of the port access road, which has hindered efficient movement for nearly two decades. “For 19 years, the port access road has been almost impassable, making movements across the corridors of the port extremely difficult. Stakeholders became vulnerable to attacks during their commute,” Nnadi stated.

    Reflecting on his tenure as a senior customs officer, Nnadi mentioned a past proposal to use waterways to alleviate road congestion. Despite some success, congestion issues at the port persisted. Upon his return as Area Comptroller, Nnadi, alongside Tin Can port manager Steve Egede, engaged in multiple meetings with management and received crucial support from the Nigerian Police to address these issues.

    Efforts to create public awareness about the dire state of the port access road were initiated, with the media playing a crucial role. “I personally made calls and encouraged media coverage to highlight the need to decongest this road. The media played a crucial role in raising awareness about the issue,” Nnadi said.

    These collaborative efforts eventually led to the clearing of the road, allowing for a safer commute for stakeholders. To capitalize on this development, the port extended its operational hours, starting with overnight container scanning and expanding to include physical examinations and other services.

    However, Nnadi emphasized the importance of infrastructure and security in sustaining night operations. “To make night operations viable, we need to light up the port and its corridors and ensure robust security measures. These steps are essential to maintaining the efficiency and safety of our operations,” he explained.

    Nnadi concluded by stressing that the slow pace of night operations is a strategic response to long-standing challenges rather than a temporary measure.

  • Navy Rescues Human Trafficking Victims, Arrests Stowaways In String Of Operations

    Navy Rescues Human Trafficking Victims, Arrests Stowaways In String Of Operations

    In a series of operations spanning from July 9 to July 13, 2024, the Nigerian Navy has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to maritime security by rescuing eight female victims of human trafficking, saving two drowning fishermen, and arresting eight male stowaways. Additionally, a sea robbery attempt was thwarted within this period.

    On July 9, the Quick Response Team of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry intercepted a wooden passenger boat carrying eight females aged 18-23 en route to the Benin Republic. Upon interrogation, it was discovered that they were victims of human trafficking. The rescued victims were handed over to the National Agency for Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation to identify the trafficking syndicate involved.

    In another incident on July 10, personnel from the Nigerian Navy FOB Ibaka in Akwa Ibom State intercepted suspected sea robbers attempting to rob a supply vessel along the Uyenghe River in Mbo Local Government Area. The robbers engaged the Navy troops with gunfire but were forced to retreat into the creeks after a heavy response from the Navy, effectively foiling the robbery attempt.

    On July 12, personnel from the Nigerian Navy FOB Lekki rescued two fishermen who were drowning around the Lekki Anchorage Area, approximately 10 nautical miles from the Dangote Refinery in Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area of Lagos State. The fishermen’s boat had capsized due to rough sea conditions.

    In a separate operation on July 13, the patrol team of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft arrested eight suspected stowaways in two speedboats attempting to board MV Northernlight along the Lagos Channel. Five of the suspects admitted they intended to travel abroad by boarding the vessel. The suspects and their speedboats were handed over to the Nigerian Immigration Service, Lagos State Port, and Marine Command for further investigation. NNS Beecroft has arrested 33 stowaways between January and July 2024.

    Commodore A. Adams-Aliu, Director of Information, reiterated the Navy’s dedication under the leadership of Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, to maintaining safe and secure Nigerian waters for legitimate economic activities. The Navy urges all operators and stakeholders within the maritime domain to comply with the law and warns against engaging in illegal activities.

    The public is requested to be informed about these developments as the Nigerian Navy continues to protect and safeguard the nation’s territorial waters.

  • Customs Made N36.95 Million In Adamawa/Taraba Operations Through Seizures of 43,000 Litres of PMS

    Customs Made N36.95 Million In Adamawa/Taraba Operations Through Seizures of 43,000 Litres of PMS


    In a recent press briefing held at Customs House Yola, the Headquarters of Adamawa/Taraba Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the Command highlighted significant successes in combating smuggling and illegal trade activities along its borderlines. Led by the Area Controller, the briefing detailed recent operations and seizures aimed at upholding the NCS mandate of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and suppression of smuggling.

    The Command disclosed that in collaboration with other security agencies, it has intensified efforts to enhance border management across its operational areas. Notably, on June 29, 2024, operatives acting on shared intelligence intercepted 85 drums (85×25L) of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) along the bank of river Benue at Ribaddo-Farkumo axis. The smugglers, upon sighting the officers, fled, abandoning the illicitly obtained PMS destined for illegal export to Cameroon.

    Further operations on July 6, 2024, resulted in the seizure of 795 jerry cans (795×25L) of PMS concealed in a bush path at Sahuda, along the Nigeria-Cameroon border. Additionally, a Carina E vehicle fitted with a hidden compartment carrying PMS was intercepted along Girei-Wuro Boki axis. These actions underscore the Command’s commitment to curbing illicit activities that undermine national economic interests.

    During the period under review, the Command recorded a total of 17 seizure cases, including PMS, a used tricycle, a motorcycle, and two vehicles, with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) amounting to N36,952,342.50. Despite the recent repeal of PMS subsidy in Nigeria, smuggling activities persist due to high demand and inflated prices in neighboring countries such as Cameroon, Niger, and Benin Republic, creating a lucrative market for illicit exports.

    In response to the resilience of fuel smuggling cartels, the Adamawa/Taraba Area Command emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen operational strategies and intelligence gathering capabilities. The Command reiterated its commitment to reducing smuggling activities to zero in the region, supported by the unwavering leadership of Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, the management of NCS, and collaborative efforts with various Customs units and security agencies.

    The Area Controller appealed to the public for support in reporting suspicious activities, stressing the collective responsibility in combating smuggling for the nation’s economic growth and security. The press was urged to continue enlightening the populace on the detrimental effects of smuggling. The briefing concluded with a call for sustained synergy between the media and NCS in the ongoing anti-smuggling crusade.

    The Nigeria Customs Service remains resolute in its mission to safeguard Nigeria’s economic interests and uphold national security through effective border management and enforcement actions.

  • NCS: Federal Operations Mourns Slain Officer, Vows Justice Against Smugglers

    NCS: Federal Operations Mourns Slain Officer, Vows Justice Against Smugglers


    In a tragic incident along the Daura-Kano Road in Jigawa State, Inspector of Customs Hamza Abdullahi Elenwo lost his life during a stop and search operation conducted by the Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone B. The incident occurred on Friday, 12 July 2024, when a suspected smuggled vehicle struck and fatally injured Inspector Hamza while attempting to evade arrest.

    Inspector Hamza, born on 15 April 1985 and hailing from Port Harcourt, Rivers State, joined the Nigeria Customs Service in 2013 and rose to the rank of Inspector of Customs in 2022. He leaves behind a wife and two children. After sustaining critical injuries, he was initially treated at General Hospital Kazaure before being transferred to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Katsina, where he was pronounced dead.

    Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu, Head of the Federal Operations Unit Zone B, expressed deep condolences on behalf of the entire unit to the family of the deceased. “This tragic incident underscores the dangers our officers face in the line of duty,” he stated, emphasizing the reckless actions of smugglers who disregard human life.

    Highlighting the unit’s commitment to justice, Comptroller Shuaibu confirmed the arrest of one suspect involved in the incident, now in custody at the Nigeria Police Force, Gwiwa Division in Jigawa State. He affirmed that the unit would continue its steadfast efforts against smuggling activities despite the risks involved.

    Inspector Isah Sulaiman, Superintendent of Customs and Public Relations Officer for the Federal Operations Unit Zone B, conveyed these sentiments in a press statement released on 13 July 2024. The statement concluded with a resolute message from Comptroller Shuaibu, affirming that the Nigeria Customs Service remains undeterred in its mission to uphold national security and enforce regulatory measures against smuggling.

    The tragic loss of Inspector Hamza Abdullahi Elenwo serves as a somber reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers in carrying out their duties to protect the nation’s borders.

  • Customs At Tin-Can Island Port Records N575bn Revenue In H1 2024, Marks 221% Growth

    Customs At Tin-Can Island Port Records N575bn Revenue In H1 2024, Marks 221% Growth


    The Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has achieved a historic revenue generation of N575,505,612,804.59 in the first half of 2024, marking a 221.13% increase from the N260,256,942,120.69 generated in the same period in 2023.

    This significant increase of N315,248,670,683.90 was announced by the Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi, during a media briefing at the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) secretariat. Nnadi highlighted that this achievement aligns with the Service’s statutory functions of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and enforcement/anti-smuggling activities.

    “In the first half of 2024, TCIP achieved a revenue collection of N575,505,612,804.59, reflecting an improvement of N315,248,670,683.90 and a 221.13% increase from the N260,256,942,120.69 collected in the first half of 2023,” Comptroller Nnadi disclosed.

    The Command also reported impressive export figures, with the total value of commercial goods exported through Tin Can Island Ports reaching N1,032,601,044,744.00 and a total volume of 489,594.50 Metric Tons (MT) in the first half of 2024. This is a substantial increase from the N182,333,764,943.00 and 291,436.00 Metric Tons (MT) recorded in the same period of 2023. Soya beans topped the list of export commodities, valued at N92,059,078,980.00, while self-adhesive materials were the lowest, at N17,560,865.00.

    In the area of seizure and anti-smuggling, Comptroller Nnadi highlighted the command’s ongoing efforts to combat smuggling and criminal activities. Significant seizures included three plastic drums concealing several packets of Cannabis Indica, forty-six bags containing 2,144 packets of Cannabis Indica weighing 1,072 kilograms, imported from Canada. The approximate street value of these illicit substances is N3.216 billion. The total Duty Paid Value of all seizures amounted to N8.9 billion.

    Nnadi emphasized the importance of these seizures in preventing the distribution of illicit drugs, arms, and ammunition that could wreak havoc in the country. He credited the command’s success to the support from critical stakeholders in the industry, including shipping companies and terminal operators.

    “We continue to express our appreciation for the support and clear sense of direction from the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adeniyi, MFR, and the Management of the Nigeria Customs Service for their relentless and continuous efforts towards strengthening the capacity of the Service and introducing innovative methods to perform its statutory responsibilities in line with international best practices,” Nnadi said. He also acknowledged the contributions of his management team and officers, urging them to continue their support for the administration.

    This remarkable performance by the Tin Can Island Port Command showcases the NCS’s commitment to enhancing revenue generation and maintaining security at Nigeria’s ports.

  • OIL THEFT: Nigerian Navy Extends Operation Delta Sanity

    OIL THEFT: Nigerian Navy Extends Operation Delta Sanity

    The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has announced the extension of the Nigerian Navy’s Operation Delta Sanity by 90 days. Launched on January 6, 2024, the operation aims to combat oil theft and related crimes in alignment with the President’s directive to eradicate crude oil theft and boost Nigeria’s oil production for economic improvement.

    Operation Delta Sanity has seen the deployment of personnel, platforms, helicopters, and UAVs for aggressive surveillance and interdiction operations across the Niger Delta. The initiative has achieved significant successes, including the recovery of stolen products, dismantling of illegal refining sites, arrests of suspects, and seizures of stolen goods. Due to these achievements, the operation was previously extended in April 2024 for another 90 days.

    During a press briefing on July 9, 2024, the Commander of the Task Group, Rear Admiral Samson Bura, reported that since the April extension, 22 suspects have been arrested, and about 122 illegal refinery sites were deactivated. Additionally, large quantities of crude oil and illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil were seized. The Navy also deactivated 57 wooden boats, 45 dugout pits, and 65 storage tanks while arresting six vessels. Several items and equipment used in illegal refinery operations were also seized.

    Given these ongoing successes, Vice Admiral Ogalla approved the extension of Operation Delta Sanity for another 90 days, starting from July 10, 2024. The announcement was made onboard the Nigerian Navy Ship Okpabana in Onne, Rivers State, by the Chief of Training and Operations, Rear Admiral Olusegun Ferreira, representing the Chief of the Naval Staff.

    Vice Admiral Ogalla expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Armed Forces, particularly the Nigerian Navy.

    The public is encouraged to be informed of this development, as the Navy continues its efforts to secure Nigeria’s maritime domain and combat illegal activities effectively.

  • IDIROKO COMMAND: Ogun Customs Generates Over N862.9m In Q2 2024

    IDIROKO COMMAND: Ogun Customs Generates Over N862.9m In Q2 2024


    In a press briefing held today, Customs Area Controller (CAC) James Ojo of Ogun I Area Command, Nigeria Customs Service, lauded the command’s outstanding achievements in the second quarter of 2024. Addressing the media in Abeokuta, Controller Ojo underscored significant milestones in revenue generation and anti-smuggling operations, emphasizing the command’s commitment to national economic development and security.

    Controller Ojo reported that Ogun I Area Command generated N92,369,227.00 in revenue during Q2 2024, marking a notable 52.46% increase from the N53,983,622.00 recorded in the same period last year. Highlighting exceptional performance in June 2024, the command surpassed its monthly revenue target of N34,122,666.90 by an impressive 77.86%. He credited this success to the dedication and professionalism of the officers and men, aligned with the strategic directives of the Customs leadership.

    The briefing also detailed the command’s enforcement achievements, including interceptions of contraband goods. Among the seized items were 219 sacks and 1,725 parcels of cannabis sativa, 940 rounds of live ammunition, 44,466 liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 2,227 pieces of pneumatic foreign-used tires, and significant quantities of frozen poultry products, foreign parboiled rice, vehicles, motorcycles, and used shoes, with a combined Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N770,666,237.00. Controller Ojo emphasized that these seizures reflect the command’s unwavering resolve against smuggling, safeguarding public health, and preserving economic integrity.

    Drawing attention to the health implications of seized items, Controller Ojo highlighted risks associated with smuggled cannabis sativa, foreign-used pneumatic tires, and frozen poultry products. He underscored dangers such as psychoactive effects, safety hazards from expired tires, and health risks from chemical contamination and antibiotic resistance in poultry products, underscoring the command’s role in protecting citizens’ well-being.

    Recognizing the collaborative effort essential to their success, Controller Ojo praised the support of traditional rulers and security agencies in Ogun State. He noted the pivotal role of these stakeholders in enhancing operational effectiveness through intelligence sharing and joint initiatives aimed at curbing smuggling and promoting national security.

    In conclusion, Controller Ojo expressed gratitude to Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adeniyi and commended the dedication of Ogun I Area Command personnel. He reaffirmed commitment to excellence and collaboration with stakeholders, emphasizing the role of media in transparent reportage. Looking ahead, he pledged continued efforts to build on achievements, tackle emerging challenges, and contribute to Nigeria’s economic prosperity and security.

  • INTER-AGENCY COLLABORATION: Comptroller Ojo Pays Courtesy Visit To Alake, Other Traditional Rulers, Security Agencies In Ogun State

    INTER-AGENCY COLLABORATION: Comptroller Ojo Pays Courtesy Visit To Alake, Other Traditional Rulers, Security Agencies In Ogun State

    Comptroller James Ojo, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Ogun I Area Command, Nigeria Customs Service, recently embarked on a courtesy visit to the Alake of Egbaland, His Royal Majesty Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo CFR, other esteemed traditional rulers, and sister security agencies in Ogun State. The visit aimed to foster sustainable collaboration and synergy to enhance economic growth and security along Nigeria’s borders with the Republic of Benin through intelligence sharing and collaborative anti-smuggling operations.

    During his visit, Comptroller Ojo expressed deep appreciation for the unwavering support of traditional rulers and emphasized the crucial role they play in maintaining peace, order, and security within their communities. He highlighted the importance of leveraging traditional institutions’ influence and insights to effectively combat smuggling activities and enhance border security.

    Comptroller Ojo’s engagements also included fruitful discussions with sister security agencies in Ogun State. These meetings underscored the need for continuous and robust collaboration among security agencies to address the challenges posed by smuggling and other cross-border crimes. By sharing intelligence, resources, and expertise, the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies can create a formidable front against those who seek to undermine Nigeria’s economic stability and national security.

    The courtesy visit aligns with the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of Customs, who has emphasized the principles of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation. Comptroller Ojo reiterated the commitment of the Ogun I Area Command to these principles, noting that such engagements are crucial for fostering a secure and prosperous environment for the people of Ogun State and Nigeria at large.

    Acknowledging the strategic importance of Ogun State’s borders with the Republic of Benin, Comptroller Ojo assured that the Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with traditional rulers and security agencies, will continue to implement intelligent and innovative strategies to safeguard the nation’s borders and promote economic growth.

    The responses from all the critical stakeholders visited were positive and impressive. The CAC was assured of continuous support and collaboration with Ogun I Area Command and was accorded a warm reception throughout his visit. The sister security agencies visited include the Nigerian Police Force, 35 Artillery Brigade Nigerian Army, Federal Road Safety Corps, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Nigeria Correctional Service, amongst others.

    In his concluding remarks, Comptroller Ojo expressed optimism about the positive outcomes of the visit and the strengthened relationships with traditional rulers and security agencies. He called for ongoing cooperation, vigilance, and commitment to tackling the challenges ahead. Comptroller Ojo affirmed that the Ogun I Area Command is dedicated to working in the spirit of unity and shared purpose to achieve their collective goals.

  • INTER-AGENCY COLLABORATION: Navy Seizes, Hands Over Suspected Cannabis Sativa To NDLEA

    INTER-AGENCY COLLABORATION: Navy Seizes, Hands Over Suspected Cannabis Sativa To NDLEA

    In a significant operation demonstrating their ongoing commitment to maritime security, the Nigerian Navy’s Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has intercepted and handed over bags of products suspected to be cannabis sativa to the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Seme Special Area Command.

    The interception occurred on May 31, 2024, at approximately 0620 hours, during a routine patrol along the waterways. Acting on credible intelligence, the naval personnel moved swiftly and intercepted the suspected drugs at the beachside near the Falcon Eye sensor, at Daddi, Barrier Island. The drugs, believed to have been smuggled from Ghana, were transported via a wooden boat and subsequently beach-landed.

    On June 20, 2024, Lieutenant Commander BI Zoaka, the Base Operations Officer of FOB Badagry, officially handed over four seized sacks to Assistant Commander Narcotics Ogbogoh Emmanuel, all suspected to be cannabis sativa. This action aligns with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution (HSOP-AD&P) of 2016.

    The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, has emphasized the mission to maintain a professionally competent naval force capable of defending Nigeria’s maritime interests. Under his leadership, the Nigerian Navy has intensified efforts to secure maritime environments and curb illegal activities. Supporting this mission, Rear Admiral Mustapha Bala Hassan, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, launched Operation WATER GUARD on November 9, 2023. This operation aims to deny smugglers and other criminal elements freedom of action within the Badagry General Area, thus ensuring regional security and economic stability.

    The sustained efforts of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base Badagry reflect the CNS Strategic Directive 2023-6, which seeks to secure the maritime environment of Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea. This recent interception marks the second significant operation since the current administration of FOB Badagry assumed office in February 2024.

    Captain Bitebobo Augustus Amakiri, Commanding Officer of the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base Badagry, commended the personnel for their vigilance and dedication, reiterating the navy’s commitment to national security and economic prosperity through sustained maritime security operations.

  • NCS Intercepts Over N3.1b Illicit Drugs At Tin-Can Port

    NCS Intercepts Over N3.1b Illicit Drugs At Tin-Can Port


    In a bold move against illicit activities, the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted and seized significant quantities of illicit drugs and pharmaceutical products worth over N3.2bn at various points across the country.

    Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, addressed a packed press conference in Lagos today, detailing the latest seizures and emphasizing the NCS’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and communities.

    Opening the conference, Adeniyi highlighted the recent successes in intercepting illegal shipments, including drugs, arms, wildlife, and petroleum products. These seizures underscore the ongoing battle against criminal networks attempting to undermine national security and economic stability through illegal activities.

    “The misuse of drugs such as Cannabis Indica and codeine poses severe dangers to our society,” Adeniyi stated, addressing the devastating impact on youth and the broader community. He pointed out that these substances not only jeopardize public health but also contribute to increased criminal activities and social unrest.

    Providing specific details, Adeniyi disclosed the seizure of two containers by the Tin-Can Command of the NCS:

    – Container 1 (40ft): Concealed within were 3 plastic drums holding packets of Cannabis Indica and 46 bags containing a total of 2,144 packets, weighing 1,072 kilograms. The estimated street value of the seized substances is N3,216,000,000.00 (Three Billion Two Hundred Sixteen Million Naira).

    – Container 2 (40ft): This shipment from India contained 877 cartons of Barcadin cough syrup with codeine (200 bottles of 100ml per carton) and 82 cartons of Really Extra Diclofenac Sodium 50mg tablets (600 packs per carton).

    The approximate street value of the seized cough syrup amounts to N964,339,348.00 (Nine Hundred and Sixty Four Million, Three Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Forty Eight Naira). Totalling (N4,180,339,348.00) Four Billion, One Hundred and Eighty Million, Three Hundred and Thirty Nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Forty Eight Naira Only.

    Adeniyi emphasized that these operations exemplify the NCS’s determination to intercept and disrupt criminal activities.

    He acknowledged the collaborative efforts with agencies like the Nigeria Drug and Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), which have proven instrumental in these successes.

    “We continue to urge all patriotic Nigerians to engage in legitimate business activities,” Adeniyi urged, underscoring the NCS’s commitment to supporting lawful trade while combating illicit practices. 

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