Category: Maritime Sector

The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Dera A. Nnadi mni, has proudly announced a significant achievement in revenue generation for the first quarter of 2024, achieving a 139% surplus over the targeted figures. This success translates into an excess revenue of ₦177,079,358,035.36 compared to the same period in 2023.

In a meeting held on April 15, 2024, Comptroller Nnadi credited the remarkable performance to the dedication and teamwork of the officers and men of the command. He emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards of service delivery for stakeholders and continuing to foster effective teamwork. The meeting also addressed challenges and laid out new strategies for meeting the revenue targets for April and the subsequent months, underlining the importance of treating stakeholders with respect while ensuring compliance.

During Q1 2024, the command’s total revenue collection reached ₦303,937,547,265.47, a stark increase from the ₦126,858,189,231.31 recorded during the same period last year. The month-by-month breakdown shows consistent growth, with January seeing a 107.9% increase, February a 141.8% increase, and March a 163.9% increase in revenue compared to the respective months in 2023.

The enforcement and anti-smuggling efforts have also been vigorous, with significant seizures made, including 57 packets of heroin and 3,612 packets of Colorado Indica, highlighting the command’s relentless pursuit to curtail illegal activities. These efforts complement the command’s strategy to minimize revenue loss and enhance operational efficiency.

On the innovation front, the command has been proactive in hosting various stakeholder forums and advancing initiatives like the Time Release Study (TRS) to boost efficiency in customs operations. The establishment of new terminals at TCIP is set to further streamline operations and accommodate the growing demand.

Furthermore, the command has seen a significant increase in export volumes and values, with exports like cocoa butter, cocoa beans, and cashew nuts showing substantial growth, enhancing the command’s contribution to the national economy.

In conclusion, Comptroller Nnadi expressed gratitude towards the Comptroller General of Customs, BA Adeniyi MFR, and his management team for their support and leadership. Looking forward, the command remains committed to leveraging digitalization and modernization to drive further improvements in service and performance.

Abuja, April 16, 2024 – A potential disaster was averted at the UTC Shopping Plaza in Garki, Abuja, thanks to the prompt response and joint effort of the Nigerian Navy (NN) Firemen, the Federal Fire Service (FFS), and the National Defence College (NDC) Fire Service.

The incident, which occurred on April 15, began when an electrical spark in one of the shops led to a fire that threatened to engulf the entire plaza. Eyewitnesses quickly alerted emergency services as smoke began to billow from the building.

The NN Firemen, a specialized unit from the Naval Headquarters in Garki, were among the first responders on the scene. Working in coordination with the FFS and the NDC Fire Service, they managed to contain and eventually extinguish the fire before it could cause more extensive damage.

Commodore Aiwuyor Adams-Aliu, the Naval Director of Information, commended the quick action and teamwork of all the fire service personnel involved. “This incident showcases the critical role of inter-agency cooperation in managing emergencies effectively,” said Adams-Aliu.

Fortunately, no lives were lost in the incident, and property damage was minimized. The quick response not only prevented a potential catastrophe but also underscored the efficiency and readiness of Nigeria’s emergency services.

… As Comptroller Jaiyeoba Harps on Benefits of Compliance

The Apapa Command of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has collected N489,614,095,022.15 as total revenue for the first quarter of 2024, which is over a hundred per cent higher than the N212.5b collected same period of 2023.

Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the command, Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba, commended the officers and port stakeholders for their cooperation towards the attainment of the laudable feat and called for sustained compliance by government and private sector stakeholders.

According to the press release by Abubakar Usman, Chief Superintendent of Customs
CPRO of the command “The Controller reminded them that the Apapa Command of the NCS is playing a critical role towards the realisation of the N5.7tr annual target of the NCS in 2024 and as such all hands should be on deck to achieve it.

According to him, the almost N 2 trillion target the command is expected to collect in 2024 is attainable through diligently abiding by the service books of instructions like the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023, government import/export prohibition lists, Common External Tariff and Federal Government approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).

While thanking the officers for their punctulity, diligence, and non compromise in the discharge of their responsibilities, Jaiyeoba reminded them of the CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi and Customs Management confidence vested in them.

The CAC reminded them that the present customs management has created room for multiple benefits for those who operate in compliance with the rules. He stated that the recently launched AEO is one of such benefits.

He described the command’s first quarter collection as a bold step towards the realisation of the target and reminded all port users about the importance of compliance, which, according to him, comes with multiple benefits.

Jaiyeoba said, “I want to urge all stakeholders in Apapa Port to keep supporting us in achieving an efficient system where everyone plays by the rules to achieve smoother, seamless, and faster import/export cargo clearance.

“Making honest declaration puts the declarant at a vantage position to have a credible reputation and enjoy the benefits that come with earned integrity such as fast track and possible migration to the authorised economic operator (AEO).

“Such attitude of compliance saves time and money as examination officers would find the cargo less cumbersome to process and other units of the service including sister government organisations would not need to flag such cargo for seizure or arrest of the importers/exporters. The cargo gets cleared on time, and payments for penalties after demand notices are not necessary as no DN is issued on compliant import/export.

“I will continue my weekly engagement of stakeholders at various levels to sustain the tempo of our achievements and consolidate on the gains from regular enlightenment of every member of the port community.
“As we step into the second quarter to end the first half of 2024, I am convinced we will do better in revenue collection, facilitate more trade through our port and prevent smuggling under any guise” the CAC said.

In a bid to foster unity and collaboration among diverse religious and professional communities, the Customs Area Controller of Tin-Can Island Port, Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni, organized a special dinner event. The gathering not only marked the 18th day of IFTAR with the Muslim community but also served as a precursor to Easter celebrations with the Christian community. Held at the Tin-Can Island Area Command this evening, the event aimed to emphasize the importance of collective prayer and cooperation in advancing the nation’s development agenda.

Comptroller Nnadi, in his address to attendees comprising representatives from sister security agencies, port stakeholders, and the press, lauded the recent accomplishments of the Port Manager, Mr. Sylvester Egede. The Port Manager’s swift action and effective collaboration with various stakeholders have significantly contributed to enhancing operations at the port, underscoring the vital role of synergy in achieving shared goals.

During his speech, Comptroller Nnadi reiterated the significance of dedication and commitment from all stakeholders towards national growth and development. He particularly commended the collaboration of truck operators in addressing traffic congestion issues, emphasizing its positive impact on trade facilitation and the ease of doing business at the port.

In response, Mr. Sylvester Egede, the Port Manager of Tin-Can Island Port, shared insights into how his extensive experience and environmental awareness, coupled with institutional knowledge, facilitated the resolution of traffic challenges that previously hindered vehicular movement from Mile 2 to the Tin-Can Seaport.

As the event drew to a close, Comptroller Nnadi expressed heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, with special recognition given to the Imam of TCIPC Mosque, who concluded the gathering with prayers for the nation’s success and prosperity under its government’s leadership.

The joint celebrations at Tin-Can Island Port not only serve as a testament to the spirit of unity and collaboration but also exemplify the collective resolve to promote peace, harmony, and progress within the port community and beyond.

The Inter-Agency Border Security Forum, spearheaded by Comptroller Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu, Customs Area Controller, Ogun 1 Command, convened crucial meetings on March 27, 2024, involving security agencies from both Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, alongside community leaders and youth representatives from Idiroko.

Dr. Bonny A. Botoku, the Secretary General of the Inter-Border Security Forum, played a pivotal role as a mediator between the two nations.

The primary objective of these meetings was to address persistent challenges hindering cooperation and peace among the security agencies of both nations. Through extensive discussions, submissions, and deliberations, stakeholders worked towards finding common ground and viable solutions.

After thorough engagement, the meetings concluded with a remarkable achievement—a peaceful resolution. This outcome signifies a significant step forward in enhancing cross-border cooperation and fostering enduring peace along the shared border.