Category: Maritime Sector

  • Navy Records Successes In Anti-Crude Oil Theft Operations

    Navy Records Successes In Anti-Crude Oil Theft Operations

    The Nigerian Navy’s Operation DELTA SANITY, aimed at combating crude oil theft and illegal oil bunkering, has reported continuous successes in its efforts from February 5 to February 26, 2024. Various naval platforms deployed for the operation have conducted aggressive patrols to address the ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s maritime environment.

    During this period, multiple illegal refining sites (IRS), metal storage tanks, ovens, wooden boats, dugout pits, fibre boats, and pumping machines were targeted and appropriately handled. Notably, Forward Operating Base FORMOSO in Bayelsa State, on February 19, conducted anti-crude oil theft operations around Brass River, Akassa, Lagosgbene, Tebidaba, and Oyeregbene general areas. The operation led to the discovery of an illegal refining site and two wooden boats laden with 62.9 barrels (10,000 litres) of suspected stolen crude oil.

    Forward Operating Base ESCRAVOS, on February 19, also carried out anti-crude oil theft operations around Aghor-Kutu Community in Warri Southern Local Government Area of Delta State. The operation revealed an illegal refining site, three ovens, one reservoir, one pumping machine, 10 jerricans, and 38 drums laden with 195.9 barrels (31,150 litres) of suspected stolen crude oil.

    Nigerian Navy Ship PATHFINDER, during operations from February 20 to 23 around Abuloma, Abonnema, Woji, and Taraba jetty in Borikiri, Rivers State, raided a car wash used for storing illegally refined products. The team discovered an illegal refining site, seven ovens, 60 drums, and two reservoirs laden with about 120,000 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil.

    On February 21, Forward Operating Base IGBOKODA conducted anti-crude oil theft operations around Agadagba in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State. The team discovered four wooden boats laden with 1,200 litres of products suspected to be stolen Automotive Gas Oil.

    Nigerian Navy Ship SOROH patrol team, on February 21, intercepted two private vehicles conveying 79 sacks of product suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil around Okarki general areas of Bayelsa State. Additionally, the team, in conjunction with NSS 030, intercepted five ovens, nine drums, 25 iron pipes, one pumping machine, and one wooden boat laden with about 1,500 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil.

    On February 22, Forward Operating Base BADAGRY patrol team conducted cordon and search operations around Agbojetho Akorin in Lagos State. The team discovered 9,000 litres of products suspected to be illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil in a building.

    Furthermore, on the same day, Forward Operating Base IBAKA patrol team intercepted a large wooden boat from the Republic of Cameroon around Uyenghe in Ibaka area, Cross River State. The boat was laden with about 5,100 litres of product suspected to be illegally syphoned Premium Motor Spirit.

    In summary, during the reviewed period, three illegal refining sites, 15 ovens, two reservoirs, eight wooden boats, and one fibre boat were appropriately handled. The Nigerian Navy’s anti-crude oil theft operations denied oil thieves approximately 55,120 barrels of suspected stolen crude oil, 141,200 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil, and 9,000 litres of illegally siphoned Premium Motor Spirit. The estimated value of the denied products amounts to N7,422,792,302.58.

    The success of the Nigerian Navy’s operations demonstrates the effectiveness of Operation DELTA SANITY in curbing illegal activities and safeguarding the nation’s maritime environment. The Navy remains committed to its mission, contributing to national security and prosperity.

  • NCS, DG TAXUD EU Forge Alliance For Streamlined Export Processes, Trade Growth

    NCS, DG TAXUD EU Forge Alliance For Streamlined Export Processes, Trade Growth


    In a bid to enhance export monitoring and trade facilitation, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has forged a collaboration with the Directorate General Taxation and Customs Union (DG TAXUD) of the European Union (EU). The announcement was made during a meeting at the NCS Corporate Headquarters on February 27, 2024, by Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

    The collaboration aims at streamlining export documentation processes, with the NCS serving as the competent authority for rules of origin. Comptroller General Adeniyi assured that the NCS is committed to facilitating the export process, highlighting the importance of fostering peace through flourishing trade.

    Acknowledging the initiative as a step towards economic union, the CG welcomed the Registered Exporters program. He called for a framework between Customs and DG TAXUD, emphasizing the need for a digital platform to enhance document validation for export commodities.

    “As part of our outreach program, we are working with other Nigerian government agencies to maximize opportunities and reduce export processing time,” stated the CG. He highlighted the establishment of a ‘one-stop-shop’ export seat for documentation, aiming to expedite the release of goods from Nigerian ports.

    The CG also announced plans to conduct a Time Release Study for exports, focusing on identifying bureaucratic obstacles causing delays. The goal is to create a faster and more efficient system for exporters.

    Gary Wilkinson from DG TAXUD discussed the tariff discount of 4 percent for Nigerian products exported to the EU under the Generalized System of Preference (GSP) scheme. He emphasized periodic visits to developing countries to ensure the authenticity of exported products and highlighted the importance of cooperation between Customs departments in trade agreements.

    The collaboration signifies a proactive effort to strengthen ties between Nigeria and the EU, promoting smoother trade processes and economic growth for both regions.

  • Apapa Customs Records Daily Revenue of N16 Billion As Comptroller Jaiyeoba Emphasizes Sincere Declaration

    Apapa Customs Records Daily Revenue of N16 Billion As Comptroller Jaiyeoba Emphasizes Sincere Declaration


    In a historic accomplishment, the Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) reported a remarkable daily revenue collection of N16,021,660,412.00 on February 23, 2024. This achievement surpasses the previous highest daily collections of N11.3 billion on November 22, 2023, and N10 billion on August 3, 2023.

    Customs Area Controller (CAC) Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba attributes this success to strategic initiatives implemented under his leadership. He commended the officers and staff for their dedication to zero tolerance for infractions and emphasized the importance of upholding the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023.

    The impressive revenue collection amid a decline in trade volume is credited to weekly strategy meetings between the CAC and sectional heads. These meetings focus on reviewing and addressing challenges to enhance the command’s performance.

    Comptroller Jaiyeoba highlighted increased stakeholder engagements, fostering collaboration with government agencies, importers, exporters, and terminal operators. The command’s commitment to modern customs administration is evident in the improved efficiency of container scanning, reducing processing time.

    While commending the commitment and integrity displayed by the officers, Comptroller Jaiyeoba urged importers, licensed customs agents, and freight forwarders to embrace scanning. He emphasized that sincere declaration is a mark of integrity, saving time and money. Failure to do so could lead to delays, demand notices, and hinder the benefits of fast track and potential migration to Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status.

    Customs Public Relations Officer CSC Abubakar Usman, speaking on behalf of CAC Apapa Command, expressed appreciation for the collective efforts that led to this milestone, highlighting the command’s commitment to utilizing information and communication technology (ICT) for efficient trade facilitation.

    The Apapa Customs Service, under the leadership of CAC Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba, continues to set new standards in revenue generation and trade facilitation, marking a positive trajectory for the future of customs operations in Nigeria.

  • Navy Conducts Search, Rescue Exercise To Combat Boat Mishaps In Rivers

    Navy Conducts Search, Rescue Exercise To Combat Boat Mishaps In Rivers


    In response to the rising incidents of boat mishaps in the country, the Nigerian Navy, NNS Pathfinder under the Eastern Naval Command, executed a comprehensive search and rescue simulation exercise aimed at saving lives at sea and mitigating casualties associated with boat mishaps within the nation’s maritime domain.

    Directed by the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, the exercise included collaboration with 10 other agencies, such as the Nigerian Airforce, Nigerian Army, Civil Defence, Police, NEMA, NIMASA, NIWA, NPA, the Rivers State Government, among others.

    Commodore Desmond Igbo, the Naval Commander of NNS Pathfinder, highlighted the Navy’s commitment to protecting lives at sea alongside safeguarding the maritime environment. The simulation aimed to enhance the capabilities of various maritime stakeholders in emergency Search and Rescue (SAR) operations, encouraging the activation of the Rivers State Government’s Emergency SAR team.

    Igbo emphasized the need for the Nigerian Navy to not only secure the maritime environment and assets but also fulfill its mandate to protect lives and properties. The simulation exercise involved Naval boats and ships deployed strategically in the creeks to respond promptly to emergencies.

    Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, represented by Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, commended the Nigerian Navy for organizing the exercise and hinted at plans to revitalize the State Emergency Management Agency. The Governor recalled the heroic act of Joe Blankson, a Rivers indigene who sacrificed his life to rescue 14 persons during a boat mishap in 2018.

    Police Commissioner Olatunji Disu expressed the readiness of the marine Police to collaborate with other agencies in conducting rescue operations within the state’s waterways. He emphasized the crucial role of the marine Police in water operations.

    The Port Harcourt Area Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Surv. Bernard Ekawu, reiterated NIWA’s commitment to safety on waterways, highlighting established search and rescue centers across all area offices. Ekawu emphasized adherence to safety protocols, including restrictions on sailing at night, boat overloading, and ensuring the use of life jackets.

    South-South Zonal Coordinator of NEMA, Mr. Adebiyi Razaq, represented by Zonal Secretary Mr. Ochoche Samson Ochepo, mentioned ongoing advocacy and sensitization efforts by NEMA to reduce disasters on waterways.

    The collaborative efforts of various agencies underscore a holistic approach towards enhancing safety and security on Nigeria’s waterways.

  • MARITIME SECURITY: Nigerian Navy Forge Stronger Ties With Nigeria Customs To Fight Smuggling In Nigerian Waters

    MARITIME SECURITY: Nigerian Navy Forge Stronger Ties With Nigeria Customs To Fight Smuggling In Nigerian Waters


    In a significant move to bolster Nigeria’s maritime security, the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, met with the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, at the Nigerian Navy Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, 19 February 2024. The meeting aimed to reinforce the collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Navy (NN) in combating smuggling activities along the nation’s waterways.

    Adeniyi emphasized the urgency of joint operations and the sharing of intelligence between the two forces as essential strategies in the fight against smuggling. He outlined the Customs Service’s plans to enhance its marine unit’s capabilities, including the maintenance of its ocean-going vessels, with the support of the Nigerian Navy.

    Vice Admiral Ogalla welcomed the initiative, highlighting the Navy’s readiness to provide training facilities to Customs personnel and to assist in enforcing Customs laws. He also called for a review of the five-year-old Harmonized Standard Operating Procedure (HSOP) for monitoring maritime crimes, to reflect the current challenges and enhance operational efficiency.

    This collaborative effort marks a pivotal step towards securing Nigeria’s maritime borders and underscores the commitment of both agencies to safeguard the nation’s economic and territorial integrity.

  • NN Thwarts Illegal Oil Refining Operation, Seizes 750,000 Litres of Stolen Diesel In Rivers State

    NN Thwarts Illegal Oil Refining Operation, Seizes 750,000 Litres of Stolen Diesel In Rivers State


    In a strategic move to curb illegal oil refining activities, the Nigerian Navy has successfully uncovered an illicit refining site in the Abonema Wharf area of Port Harcourt City, Rivers State. Led by the Commander of Nigerian Navy Ship, NNS Pathfinder, Commodore Desmond Igbo, the operation resulted in the confiscation of approximately 750,000 litres of illegally refined Automated Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel.

    The raid, executed on Tuesday following a tip-off, aligns with the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla’s mandate to eradicate illegal oil bunkering and crude oil theft in the Niger Delta and other parts of the nation.

    Speaking to journalists after the operation, Commodore Desmond Igbo emphasized the economic sabotage and environmental degradation associated with illegal oil bunkering. He stated, “This is another illegal oil bunkering site in Port Harcourt. As you can see, we have lots of drums fully loaded with this illegally refined products. We also have some loaded in the bags too. Here, we have not less than 750,000 litres of AGO stolen by criminals stocked here.”

    Highlighting the danger posed by such operations within the city, Commodore Igbo stated, “Apart from being saboteurs of the nation’s economy by stealing these oil, it is also an act of environmental degradation. They also constitute danger to the citizens and properties of people around here because, if there is any form of fire outbreak, it will burn down the entire community.”

    He reassured the commitment of the naval forces to persist in their efforts, despite challenges and attempts at sabotage. Commodore Igbo affirmed, “The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogala has given us this mandate to go to the creeks, the water and the land to make sure that crude oil theft in Niger Delta is put to an end. We will not relent and we won’t be deterred even with all forms of sabotage and blackmails.”

    The Commander urged those involved in illegal activities to seek legal means of livelihood, emphasizing the negative impact on the nation’s economy and the environment.

    The confiscated products will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further action. The Nigerian Navy remains resolute in its mission to eradicate illegal oil-related activities and ensure the security and prosperity of the nation.

  • Air Force Officer Heroically Foils ‘One-Chance’ Robbery Attempt In Abuja

    Air Force Officer Heroically Foils ‘One-Chance’ Robbery Attempt In Abuja


    In a remarkable display of courage and quick thinking, Air Commodore John Ijudigal, a serving officer in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), successfully thwarted a robbery and kidnapping attempt by notorious ‘one-chance’ operators in Abuja on February 14, 2024. The incident unfolded at Accra Road, Wuse Zone 5, resulting in the apprehension of three suspects and the rescue of two kidnapped victims.

    At approximately 7:28 pm, Air Commodore Ijudigal, commuting home in his staff car, encountered a distressing scene—an Abuja-painted taxi (Mazda 323, registration BWR 232 XB) reversing at high speed, with terrified passengers screaming for help. A black Toyota Land Cruiser was in pursuit. Air Commodore Ijudigal instinctively joined the chase, using his official vehicle to block the escape route of the criminals.

    In the ensuing collision between the ‘one-chance’ vehicle and Air Commodore Ijudigal’s official car, significant damage occurred to both vehicles. The impact forced the ‘one-chance’ vehicle into a nearby garden. Undeterred, Air Commodore Ijudigal pursued one of the fleeing suspects into a nearby bush with the assistance of onlookers. The driver of the ‘one-chance’ vehicle and two other suspects (a male and a female) were apprehended, while two female victims were successfully rescued.

    Air Commodore Ijudigal promptly contacted the nearest police post and personally handed over the three criminals to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commissioner of Police, Mr. Benneth Igweh, at his office.

    FCT Commissioner of Police Mr. Benneth Igweh commended Air Commodore Ijudigal for his courage, emphasizing that his intervention not only thwarted a potential tragedy but also contributed significantly to the apprehension of criminals posing a security risk in the FCT. The Commissioner praised the senior officer’s act as a demonstration of bravery and unwavering commitment to public service, stating that, “The swift and decisive measures taken no doubt averted a potential tragedy, reinstating confidence in the security forces.”

    Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, expressed commendation for Air Commodore Ijudigal’s bravery and selfless service. The senior officer, a former NAF Deputy Director of Sports and currently the Deputy Director of Logistics at the Defence Headquarters, received recognition for his exceptional actions during a critical security incident.

  • NCS Idiroko Command Celebrates Third Edition Of Art Festival For Economic Development, National Security

    NCS Idiroko Command Celebrates Third Edition Of Art Festival For Economic Development, National Security


    In a vibrant celebration merging art, education, and customs awareness, the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun 1 Area Command, joined hands with the Integration Art Palace and Tour company for the third edition of the Festival of Art for Economic Development. The five-day event, held from February 10 to February 14, 2024, aimed to explore the pivotal role of the Nigeria Customs Service in both economic development and national security.

    The festival witnessed active participation from academic institutions such as Olabisi Onabanjo University, Yaba College of Technology, and selected secondary schools in Ipokia Local Government Area, fostering a diverse and engaged audience.

    Chief Superintendent of Customs, Hammed Oloyede, led participants on a tour of the Sentry Customs House, providing insights into seized vehicles, petroleum products, and perishable items warehoused there. The destruction site for seized frozen poultry products was also showcased, emphasizing the Customs Service’s commitment to combatting illicit activities.

    A symposium hosted at the Command’s Headquarters included dignitaries such as Customs Area Controller (CAC) Ahmadu Shuaibu, Director of DSS Mr. IK Ikiriko, and heads of other agencies. The CAC commended the initiative and highlighted the festival’s potential to curb youth restiveness while promoting creative skills. Assistant Comptroller of Customs Emmanuella Chukwu, the guest speaker, elaborated on NCS’s crucial functions in revenue generation, anti-smuggling efforts, and national security.

    Dr. Bonny A. Botoku, the festival initiator, emphasized the choice of Valentine’s Day for the event, aiming to channel youthful energy constructively and prevent unwanted pregnancies. Dr. Botoku expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service, acknowledging its significant role in the nation’s economy and security.

    The festival concluded with a grand finale at the Integration Art Palace and Tour cultural center in Idiroko on February 14, 2024. Customs Area Controller’s representative, Deputy Comptroller Administration, DC Charles Ogunesan, presented certificates of participation and awarded prizes to outstanding secondary school participants. The art exhibition, opened by the CAC’s representative, will run until the end of February.

    In a press release from CSC Hammed Oloyede, the Public Relations Officer of Ogun 1 Area Command, the Customs Area Controller reassured continuous support for the festival’s sustainability. The collaborative effort showcased a commitment to integrating customs awareness with cultural and educational initiatives, fostering a positive impact on the community’s economic and artistic development.

  • Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft Nabs Motor Tanker SAISNIL II In Suspected Crude Oil Theft Bust

    Nigerian Navy Ship Beecroft Nabs Motor Tanker SAISNIL II In Suspected Crude Oil Theft Bust


    In a significant demonstration of maritime security capability, the patrol team of Nigerian Navy Ship BEECROFT, led by its Commander, Commodore Kolawole Olumide Oguntuga, also the Maritime Component Commander Operation AWATSE, apprehended the Motor Tanker Vessel SAISNIL II for suspected crude oil theft.

    The flagged St. Vincent & Grenadines vessel, with 11 crew members on board at the time of arrest, was intercepted after it turned off its Automatic Identification System (AIS).

    Rear Admiral MB Hassan, the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, highlighted the significance of AIS in monitoring vessel activities, emphasizing that turning off such systems often raises suspicions of illicit maritime activities.

    Rear Admiral Hassan disclosed that the vessel, en route from Lagos to Port Harcourt for the evacuation of approximately 720,000 Liters of Crude Oil Sludge, raised suspicion due to a 48-hour manipulation of its AIS around the ABO field. Samples of the onboard product have been collected for analysis, with the results determining the subsequent course of action.

    Addressing the press, Rear Admiral Hassan stressed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to transparency and invited relevant agencies to conduct independent analyses of the vessel’s cargo. He underscored the Navy’s dedication to eradicating crude oil theft in the nation’s maritime environment for economic prosperity.

    The successful operation aligns with the strategic directives of Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, Chief of the Naval Staff, and showcases the Navy’s relentless commitment to combating maritime illegalities.

  • NCS Seizes Contraband Worth N854 Million

    NCS Seizes Contraband Worth N854 Million


    The Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) revealed on Tuesday that its officers conducted successful operations in January 2024, resulting in the seizure of various contraband items across different locations in Ogun State.

    Comptroller Ejibunu, head of the unit, disclosed the notable seizures during a press briefing at the unit’s headquarters. The seized items included 104 brand new motorcycles (“Okada”), 11 used vehicles, 23,025 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 556 cartons of slippers, and a significant quantity of foreign parboiled rice, amounting to 6.5 trailer loads. The total number of seizures amounted to 60, with a Duty Paid Value estimated at N854,156,712.

    Ejibunu highlighted the diverse nature of the confiscated items, ranging from foreign rice and used clothes to cannabis sativa (Indian Hemp) and foreign tomato paste. The list also featured items like used tyres, motorcycles, slippers, and used vehicles.

    Expressing appreciation for the hard work and dedication of his officers and men, Comptroller Ejibunu commended the diligence exhibited in the previous year. He also acknowledged the compliance of importers, exporters, and agents, emphasizing the importance of business integrity and adherence to Customs procedures and regulations.

    Speaking about the unit’s mandate, Ejibunu emphasized the gravity of smuggling, detailing its various forms, including false declarations, concealment of goods, use of unapproved routes, forging of Customs documents, under-payment of Customs duties, and trafficking in prohibited or restricted goods. He stressed the severe repercussions of smuggling on the economy, environment, health, and security.

    In their renewed effort to combat smuggling, the unit activated enhanced intelligence gathering and information sharing mechanisms. This strategy identified new smuggling hot spots and schemes employed by smugglers, resulting in the successful seizures with a total duty paid value of N854,156,712.

    Ten suspects were arrested in connection with the seized goods, and a revenue recovery of N83,141,803.60 was generated through documentary checks and issuance of demand notices on consignments that were found to have been short-paid.

    Comptroller Ejibunu appealed to the public for support with credible information on economic sabotage and suspicious movement of goods, emphasizing that security is the collective responsibility of all citizens. He urged the public to be aware of the consequences of smuggling, emphasizing that curbing this menace requires the collaboration of all patriotic citizens and enforcement agencies.

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