Category: Maritime Sector

  • Customs, CDCFIB Unite to Bolster National Security

    Customs, CDCFIB Unite to Bolster National Security

    The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s enduring collaboration with agencies under the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB) on Thursday, 21 August 2025, stressing that shared facilities and operational cooperation remain key pillars of partnership.

    During a courtesy visit by the CDCFIB leadership to Customs Headquarters in Abuja, CGC Adeniyi highlighted ongoing collaborations, including the use of Customs facilities by Immigration and Correctional Services personnel.

    “In Ibadan, we have a five-storey building where two floors are dedicated to Immigration and a Correctional Service detachment,” he said. “In Kano, our facilities support Immigration recruitment exercises, while in Bauchi, a wing is set aside for our colleagues. These prove that, despite structural changes, our bond remains strong. We work together and will continue to do so.”

    Earlier, CDCFIB Secretary, Major General AbdulMalik Jibril (rtd), congratulated CGC Adeniyi on his tenure extension and commended his contributions to Nigeria’s economy and security.

    “As Secretary to the Board of these four services, I consider it necessary to rekindle our relationship and strengthen synergy. Whenever the need arises, we must be able to approach one another. This visit seeks to consolidate our partnership and reinforce cooperation for national security,” he said.

    He explained that the visit aimed to deepen collaboration in training, recruitment, and shared operational support, which aligns with the federal government’s whole-of-society approach to security management.

  • Tincan Island Port Generates ₦16.4 Billion In One Day via Bodogwu System

    Tincan Island Port Generates ₦16.4 Billion In One Day via Bodogwu System

    The Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service is pleased to announce a landmark revenue collection of ₦16,411,402,227.27 on Tuesday, August 19, 2025, which was made possible through the effective deployment of the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS) known as Bodogwu.

    In a statement made available to the press on Thursday in Lagos by the Public Relations Officers of the Command, Superintendent of Customs Oscar Ivara, the Customs Area Controller Frank Onyeka was quoted as saying that this achievement is a strong indicator of the efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness of the Bodogwu system in streamlining port operations.

    According to him, the Bodogwu system has drastically improved the ability of licensed Customs agents and stakeholders to access payment platforms and complete cargo clearance processes in real-time, without unnecessary delays or administrative bottlenecks.

    He also pointed out that the Bodogwu systems has integrated all key elements of port and Customs operations under one digital interface, enabling faster processing, accurate valuation, and enhanced monitoring of cargo activities. As a result, both the Command and port users can now operate in a more predictable and efficient environment that supports Nigeria’s economic goals.

    Speaking further, Comptroller Onyeka noted that this record-breaking revenue figure is not just about numbers. It reflects the game-changing role of the Bodogwu system in modernizing port operations and further highlights the benefits of the Command continues collaboration with all relevant stakeholders, which includes terminal operators, shipping companies, licensed Customs agents, and regulatory agencies. This coordinated approach ensures that cargo clearance processes are seamless, compliant, and business-friendly.

    He reiterated that the Command remains dedicated to enhancing trade facilitation, securing revenue for national development, and supporting all port users in achieving timely and cost-effective cargo clearance.

  • Nigerian Navy FOB Badagry Reports Major Gains In Anti-Smuggling, Anti-Trafficking Ops

    Nigerian Navy FOB Badagry Reports Major Gains In Anti-Smuggling, Anti-Trafficking Ops

    In line with the Nigerian Navy’s sustained mandate to curb smuggling, trafficking, and other cross-border crimes within its Area of Operations (AOO), the Forward Operating Base (FOB) BADAGRY intensified patrols and enforcement activities with remarkable success between Friday 18 July and Wednesday 20 August 2025. During this period, the Base conducted a series of targeted operations across Badagry-Porto Novo Creek, Tongeji axis, Akoro Beach, Owode-Apa, Gbaji, Iyafin, and adjoining waterways.

    According to a statement signed by the Commanding Officer, Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base Badagry, Navy Captain BO Omotayo, these operations led to the interception of petroleum products, foreign parboiled rice, cannabis sativa, and the rescue of victims of human trafficking.

    Between 29 July and 2 August 2025, the Base carried out coordinated patrols along Tongeji Creek, Moba Waterside, and Badagry-Porto Novo Creek, which resulted in the seizure of 823 bags of foreign parboiled rice. The bags, concealed in boats and other covert channels for onward distribution into Badagry and nearby communities, were part of a major smuggling network disrupted by the Nigerian Navy along the Nigeria–Benin maritime corridor.

    In addition, anti-smuggling operations within the same timeframe led to the confiscation of about 13,965 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). These seizures were recorded at Owode-Apa, Ashikpa, Badagry-Porto Novo Creek, Akoro Beach, and Tongeji axis. Intelligence revealed that the consignments were intended for illegal movement into Benin Republic. The entire contaminated PMS was subsequently destroyed to avoid recirculation into the local market in line with extant regulation.

    Furthermore, Between 23 July and 8 August 2025, the Base recorded significant success in countering human trafficking along Badagry–Porto Novo River. In the course of these operations, 8 victims were rescued and 2 traffickers arrested.

    Investigations revealed that the victims were being deceived with promises of better opportunities in neighbouring countries, with the intent of exploiting them to forced labour and prostitution. Notably, Mr. Godwin Benard Ifeanyi, a prime facilitator of the syndicate, was arrested and has since been charged to court. All rescued victims were profiled and handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation and the reunification with their families.

    Additionally, on 25 July 2025, acting on credible intelligence, naval personnel conducted a targeted raid on a suspected drug storage facility at Jegeme axis. The operation led to the recovery of 50 wraps of cannabis sativa, carefully concealed for onward distribution. The swift action not only disrupted the illicit drug supply chain but also reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s determination to prevent criminal elements from exploiting border communities as transit points for narcotics trafficking.

    On this day, 21 August 2025, In line with the Nigerian Navy’s Standard Operating Procedures and in keeping with extant regulations, the entire consignment of 823 bags of rice have been formally handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service Seme Area Command, while the 50 wraps suspected cannabis sativa was transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Seme Area Command, for further administrative action.

    These sustained efforts underscore the vision of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, as articulated in the CNS Strategic Directive 06–2023. The directive emphasizes the Nigerian Navy’s role in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime borders, countering economic sabotage, combating transnational crimes, and strengthening inter-agency cooperation to enhance national security.

    FOB Badagry remains committed to executing its mandate with professionalism, diligence, and resolve, while working closely with host communities and sister security agencies in the collective fight against smuggling, trafficking, and other maritime crimes.

  • Apapa Customs Will Always Stay Ahead of Smugglers – Comptroller Olomu

    Apapa Customs Will Always Stay Ahead of Smugglers – Comptroller Olomu

    Customs Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu fsi has reiterated that the Command will always be ahead of smugglers by always deploying intelligence with uncompromising enforcement to prevent prohibited items from being brought into the country.

    Comptroller Olomu, who said this on Monday, 18 August 2025, when he received Dr. Martin Iluyomade fsi, Director, Inspection and Enforcement Directorate of the National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), disclosed that renewed antics by smugglers to use fake registration numbers and false declarations have always failed.

    According to a press statement signed by its PRO, SC JT Ayagbalo the comptroller told the visiting Director, who doubles as Chairman of the Federal Task Force on Fake, Substandard Drugs and Unwholesome Food that Apapa Command is very committed to the implementation of the memorandum of understanding between the Comptroller-General of Customs and the Director General of NAFDAC aimed at preventing smuggling of items under the agency’s regulatory purview.

    While urging NAFDAC to expedite action in evacuating handed over containers from the port , the Area Controller assured that efforts will be sustained to achieve arrest of suspects and hand them over with the seizures.

    The CAC added that arresting the persons involved in the acts is a major step to demobilize the human element influence in the smuggling supply chain cycle and deter others from such illegal activities.

    He also disclosed that officers under his watch have joined the CGC in imbibing zero tolerance for smuggling and will do the needful to avoid situations where our laws are circumvented for the lives of Nigerians to be endangered by what they eat, drink or by the use of arms and ammunition brought into the country illegally.

    According to him, a recent seizure of 32 containers that attracted the presence of the CGC who personally supervised their handing over to NAFDAC attests to the smooth working relationship between both organisations and justifying their recently signed MoU.

    Iluyomade commended Comptroller Olomu for being uncompromising and making what he called Life Saving Seizures. He said, “You can kill one or two persons with guns, but you can kill a whole nation with fake drugs, unwholesome food, and harmful medicine. It’s like those importing it are declaring war on the citizens of this country. ”

    While describing Olomu as the best Controller Apapa command ever had, he recalled starting his career as a young employee of NAFDAC many years ago and confirmed that customs anti smuggling efforts have evolved for the better.

    Iluyomade added that awards of best command given to Apapa Area under Olomu were truly earned and very deserving. He also sought support to secure handed over containers from being pilfered ahead of NAFDAC evacuation.

  • Nigeria Customs Service, Shippers’ Council Strategize on B’Odogwu Implementation

    Nigeria Customs Service, Shippers’ Council Strategize on B’Odogwu Implementation

    In line with its modernisation drive and commitment to trade facilitation, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has engaged in a high-level consultation with the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) on the implementation of the Unified Customs Management System, more commonly known as B’Odogwu.

    Following concerns raised by freight forwarders and Licensed Customs Agents regarding delays and demurrage linked to the B’Odogwu rollout, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, met with the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Dr. Akutah Ukeyima, on Monday, 19th August 2025, at the Nigeria Customs Service’s headquarters, Abuja.

    According to a press statement signed by Customs National Public Relations Officer, AC Abdullahi Maiwada PhD, mnipr, mniia the engagement provided a platform to deliberate on practical solutions aimed at mitigating the inconveniences experienced by operators.

    The Executive Secretary of the Shippers’ Council conveyed industry feedback from freight forwarders and agents, noting operational challenges related to system integration, documentation, and port logistics. He stressed the need for urgent responses to minimise financial losses and prevent disruptions in the cargo clearance chain.

    Furthermore, the CGC reaffirmed that B’Odogwu, being a flagship project under the Customs Modernisation Programme, remains critical to achieving a transparent, technology-driven, and globally competitive clearance process. He assured that challenges in this initial phase would be systematically resolved through structured stakeholder engagement, phased improvements, and continuous system upgrades.

    With this engagement, the NCS and NSC underscored the importance of sustained dialogue and collaboration, noting that further consultations with stakeholders, including shipping lines and terminal operators, would continue to align processes and address emerging concerns. The Service also emphasised that while transitional issues are expected in large-scale reforms, measures are being implemented to limit disruptions and shield operators from excessive costs such as demurrage.

    It is pertinent to note that the B’Odogwu is an indigenous platform aimed at centralising Customs processes, integrating stakeholders into a unified system while cutting clearance timelines, reducing costs, boosting compliance, and strengthening government revenue. The NCS, therefore, calls on stakeholders to support the implementation process, provide constructive feedback, and partner with Customs in building a modernised trade ecosystem that promotes efficiency, competitiveness, and national development.

  • CNS Ogalla Expressed Delight Over The Progress Recorded By Nigerian Navy, Reaffirmed Commitment To Repositioning For Enhanced Maritime Security And National Development

    CNS Ogalla Expressed Delight Over The Progress Recorded By Nigerian Navy, Reaffirmed Commitment To Repositioning For Enhanced Maritime Security And National Development

    … As Clergy Emphasize Unity, Gratitude At Interdenominational Church Service In Navy Town

    As part of activities marking the 69th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy, a solemn interdenominational thanksgiving service was held on Sunday at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church, Navy Town, Ojo, Lagos. The spiritually uplifting gathering brought together naval personnel, their families, and well-wishers in an atmosphere of gratitude, reflection, and renewed commitment to peace and unity.

    The service was officiated by a team of dedicated military clergy including Very Reverend Father (Capt) Richmond Diala, Reverend Father (CDR) JO Ukpogu, Rev. Fr. (Lt CDR) MM Vandu, Rev. Fr. (Lt CDR) J Elises, Rev. Fr. (Lt CDR) BM Benson, Rev. Fr. (Lt CDR) S Kogi, and Rev. Fr. (Lt CDR) ZO Adebayo.

    The First Reading was taken by the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) Naval Doctrine Command (NAVDOC), while the Responsorial Psalm was led by Lt. OR Ukachukwu-Eke. The Second Reading was delivered by the FOC Western Naval Command (WNC), and the Gospel was proclaimed by Rev. Fr. (Lt CDR) MM Vandu. Rev. Fr. (Lt CDR) BM Benson led the general intercessions, and the service concluded with prayers and benediction by Rev. Fr. (CDR) JO Ukpogu.

    In his homily titled *“TOGETHER”*, Rev. Fr. (Capt) Richmond Diala delivered a deeply reflective message, calling for national and institutional introspection.

    “This celebration is a call to consciousness,” he declared. “It’s not a new message, but a reminder—a reaffirmation of what we already know. On a day like this, I ask: what has sustained the Nigerian Navy? What has sustained Nigeria as a country? And what will sustain us in the future? The answer is togetherness.”

    Fr. Diala emphasized the importance of unity across religious, ethnic, and institutional divides. He recalled past predictions that Nigeria would disintegrate by certain milestones, yet the country remains intact. “Is that not enough for us to thank God?” he asked the congregation, urging all present to embrace gratitude and maintain hope.

    “A good Christian can never be a bad soldier,” he added, encouraging service members to remain steadfast in faith while upholding their military responsibilities.

    The homilist’s delivery, laced with humor, personal anecdotes, and emotional appeals, drew laughter, reflection, and spontaneous applause from the congregation. He spoke of his years in ministry and the inspiration he has drawn from the resilience of service members and citizens alike. Quoting a Nigerian saying, he reminded the congregation: “If you don’t know who you are, you may never know where you’re going.”

    In his remarks, Vice Admiral Ikechukwu Emmanuel Ogalla expressed delight over the progress recorded by the Nigerian Navy and reaffirmed the service’s commitment to repositioning for enhanced maritime security and national development.

    He stated: “I’m delighted to make this remarks on this special occasion on the commemoration of the Nigeria Navy 69th Anniversary Celebration. It is through the mercy of God that we all are able to witness this year’s anniversary. Over the years, we have continued to develop the Nigerian Navy in order to reposition ourselves to curb rising security challenges facing our nation and the West African Sub-Region in general.

    In line with our strategic plans and objectives, we have focused on capacity building, acquisition of platforms, infrastructural development, and the welfare of our personnel and civilian staff. While this development drive will be sustained towards operational effect, efficiency, and effectiveness of the service, it is imperative that we remain prayerful, steadfast, and focused. It is also important that we remain peace-loving and law-abiding citizens, and abide by the principles that foster unity in our nation.

    The Holy Bible, in II Chronicles 7:14, says, ‘If my people who are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven, I will forgive their sins and will heal their land.’ As we gather here today, let us pray for Nigeria, let us also pray for the Nigerian Armed Forces and the Nigerian Navy in particular, that the Almighty God will continue to heal our land and grant us the grace to carry out our roles for the good of the people.”

    He emphasized that the Navy under his leadership will continue to prioritize welfare and enhance operational efficiency through the acquisition of modern platforms and tools necessary for optimal performance.

    “During this anniversary celebration,” he revealed, “we will be commissioning three ships and three helicopters, several works and office blocks. We are also expecting several other platforms to join the fleet within this year. Let me also assure you that under my watch we will strive to mitigate accommodation challenges in the Nigerian Navy, knowing fully well that shelter is one of the basic needs of man.”

    Vice Admiral Ogalla further disclosed the establishment of the Station Operational Command in Makurdi and the Nigerian Navy Marine unit to support expeditionary warfare and land-based operations, reflecting the Navy’s adaptive posture to emerging security threats.

    “Note that we will continue to improve on our operational strategies to curb criminality in the maritime environment and on land,” he said. “We will also continue on our strategies to assert our duties as a regional sea power for the Gulf of Guinea by ensuring sustained freedom of communication within this region.”

    Acknowledging the support of the Federal Government, he stated, “The successes of the Nigerian Navy in terms of acquisition and infrastructural development would not have been possible without the support of Mr. President. On this note, I want to seize this opportunity to thank and appreciate the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for his unflinching and unrelenting support to the Nigerian Navy. I make bold to say that the President takes issues concerning the Nigerian Navy very passionately to the extent that he has never turned down any of our requests.”

    He concluded with a renewed pledge of commitment: “We are committed towards the sustained security of our maritime domain. We will also continue to support land-based operations for national security in support of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda for economic prosperity and national development of our nation.”

    The event was capped with a tour of the newly commissioned projects and a brief reception in the new multi-purpose hall, named in honor of the CNS.

    The service also served as a reminder of the Navy’s spiritual foundation and the importance of divine guidance in national security and personal life. As the Nigerian Navy celebrates nearly seven decades of existence, the message of the day was clear: unity, gratitude, and shared responsibility are the anchors for future progress.

    The service ended with a rousing chorus of praise and thanksgiving, setting a spiritual tone for the week-long anniversary celebrations.

  • Western Naval Command, Conduct Joint Environmental Sanitation In Apapa

    Western Naval Command, Conduct Joint Environmental Sanitation In Apapa


    The Western Naval Command (WNC), in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry for Environment, executed a large-scale environmental sanitation exercise at Aremu Junction, Trailer Park and Marine Bridge in Apapa, Lagos State.

    The cleanup exercise involved various environmental stakeholders, including the Lagos State Waste Management Agency (LAWMA), the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation Corps (KAI), the Lagos State Waste Water Management Office (LAWMO), the Office of Environmental Services, and the Office of Drainage Services.

    The Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Micheal Gregory Oamen described the exercise as part of the Nigerian Navy’s civil-military relations initiative, which aligns with the strategic directive of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla, Admiralty Medal. He underscored the Navy’s role as a key stakeholder in the Apapa community and highlighted the importance of supporting the Lagos State Government’s mandate to maintain a clean and healthy city for businesses to thrive.

    The Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Environment, Engr. Kunle Rotimi Akodu acknowledged the contributions of the Nigerian Navy and the support from other environmental agencies. He emphasized that their collective efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to improving public hygiene and maintaining a cleaner urban environment across Lagos.

    On her part, the Chairman of Apapa Local Government, Honourable Idowu Adejumoke Senbanjo, appreciated the Nigerian Navy for the initiative and called on other agencies to contribute their own quota towards keeping Apapa clean.

    During the exercise, participants cleared drainage channels, removed waste, and engaged local residents and traders on the significance of proper waste management. This initiative has strengthened the cooperation between Nigerian Navy and civilian institutions.

    The sanitation drive emphasizes the growing importance of collaborative environmental responsibility in Lagos State, setting an example for future joint efforts to enhance the city’s cleanliness.

  • IMION Director General Tasks Participants During Executive Course on Collaboration, Sustainability of Blue Economy

    IMION Director General Tasks Participants During Executive Course on Collaboration, Sustainability of Blue Economy

    The International Maritime Institute of Nigeria (IMION) successfully concluded its two-day Executive Course on Sustainability for the Blue Economy, held from May 22 to 23, 2025. Rear Admiral Thaddeus Udofia (Retired), Director General of IMION, delivered the closing remarks, emphasizing the significance of inter-agency collaboration and sustainable development for Nigeria’s maritime sector.

    Addressing participants, Rear Admiral Udofia expressed profound appreciation for the collective engagement over the course. “We started with shared expectations and a collective vision; today, we part enriched with insight, equipped with strategies, and united in purpose,” he said. The discussions covered key issues such as climate change resilience, marine resource governance, innovative financing, and stakeholder inclusivity.

    Udofia highlighted the diverse and cross-sectorial nature of the participants, which included representatives from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Customs Service, private companies such as Al Range Limited, and other public sector stakeholders. “Your presence reaffirms the necessity of inter-agency collaboration in unlocking the full potential of our maritime domain,” he stated.

    The Director General charged attendees to act as ambassadors of sustainability in their various institutions and communities, urging them to turn the lessons from the course into institutional reforms, innovative policies, and practical actions to ensure a resilient and thriving blue economy for future generations.

    Gratitude was extended to the Akwa Ibom State government, led by Governor Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, for supporting maritime education and research. Udofia also acknowledged the steadfast support of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa OFR, and the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, whose leadership has been instrumental in positioning IMION as a center of excellence.

    The course benefited from the expertise of consultant Paul Usoro & Co, numerous facilitators, coordinators, partner organizations, and the media, whose role in amplifying the event’s message was appreciated.

    Earlier, Mrs. Mfon Ekong Usoro, IMION consultant and managing partner, underscored the course’s focus on embedding sustainability principles into blue economy development. She explained that sustainability not only involves environmental stewardship but also social inclusivity, particularly the meaningful participation of host communities as stakeholders rather than mere beneficiaries.

    Mrs. Usoro emphasized the critical need for a “whole-of-government” approach, highlighting that the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy must collaborate with other key ministries such as Environment, Tourism, Oil and Gas, Agriculture, and Biotechnology to effectively govern and develop Nigeria’s blue economy.

    “This course has reiterated that sustainability for the blue economy requires collaboration at all levels, especially ministerial,” she concluded.

    Rear Admiral Udofia officially closed the event, wishing all participants safe travels and urging them to continue their commitment to the sustainable development of Nigeria’s oceans and maritime resources.

  • Nigerian Navy Set To Commission Ships, Helicopters, And Accommodation For Junior Officers In 69th Anniversary Celebrations

    Nigerian Navy Set To Commission Ships, Helicopters, And Accommodation For Junior Officers In 69th Anniversary Celebrations

    The Nigerian Navy has unveiled a line-up of activities for its 69th Anniversary Celebration scheduled to hold from Friday, 23 May to Sunday, 1 June 2025 in Lagos. Rear Admiral Ibrahim Abdullahi Dewu, Chief of Policy and Plans at the Naval Headquarters in Abuja, made this known during an international press conference held on Monday, 19 May 2025.

    Rear Admiral Dewu stated that the Navy Week, as the celebration is popularly known, commemorates the establishment of the Nigerian Navy on 1 June 1956. According to him, the Navy has grown from a modest coastal force into a formidable maritime institution with influence in the Gulf of Guinea and sub-Saharan Africa.

    He noted that the Navy Week is also an opportunity to present the scorecard of the Nigerian Navy under the leadership of the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla.

    He explained that the Navy, under Ogalla, has achieved a high level of operational readiness in fulfilling its constitutional roles, especially in the fight against crude oil theft. The operation, initially launched in January 2024 as Operation Delta Sanity, was relaunched in December 2024 as Operation Delta Sanity II. The operations led to the arrest of 215 suspects, seizure of 26 vessels, and destruction of 468 illegal refinery sites in 2024 alone.

    In 2025, more than 103 illegal sites have already been destroyed, with the arrest of 34 suspects and the seizure of 39 wooden boats and one ship. So far, about 773,000 litres of crude oil and 150,000 litres of refined products have been recovered this year. Dewu stated that these achievements align with the President’s directive to eradicate oil theft and boost national oil production.

    The Nigerian Navy also maintains constant situational awareness through its Falcon Eye and Regional Maritime Awareness Capacity Systems, which have contributed to Nigeria’s zero-piracy rating in the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy assessment.

    The Nigerian Navy has taken a leadership role in regional security, hosting the 8th Symposium of Heads of Navies and Coast Guards of Gulf of Guinea nations in November 2024. The symposium discussed the operationalization of a Combined Maritime Task Force for the region.

    In February 2025, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, signed an agreement with the African Union for strategic sealift support by the Nigerian Navy. Dewu affirmed the Navy’s readiness to support AU peace operations and humanitarian missions.

    He also announced the establishment of a Special Operations Command in Makurdi, Benue State, on the North Bank of the River Benue, aimed at bolstering security in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.

    In terms of fleet renewal, the Navy will commission three new patrol vessels—NNS Shere, NNS Faro, and NNS Ikogosi—acquired from Singapore and South Korea. Additionally, three Agusta Westland 109 Trekker helicopters will be added to the Navy’s fleet, bringing the total number of helicopters to 14.

    Dewu also highlighted the Navy’s participation in international exercises, including the recently concluded Exercise Obangame Express 2025, conducted from 10 to 16 May with partner nations such as the USA, Brazil, Italy, and Spain.

    He outlined the Navy Week events, starting with Juma’at prayers on Friday, 23 May in Abuja, and an interdenominational church service on Sunday, 25 May in Lagos. Other activities include Medical Rhapsodies and outreach by the Naval Officers’ Wives Association on Monday, 26 May, a sailing competition and boat race on Wednesday, 28 May, and the unveiling of a remodeled auditorium at the International Maritime Institute of Nigeria.

    On Thursday, 29 May, naval ships will be open to public visitors in Lagos, Warri, Port Harcourt, and Calabar. On Friday, 30 May, the public will have an opportunity to go onboard ships for sea cruises, and there will also be a golf tournament at the Dolphin Golf Club in Navy Town, Lagos.

    The commissioning of ships, helicopters, and accommodation for junior officers will take place on Saturday, 31 May at NNS Beecroft, Apapa, Lagos, while the celebration will end on Sunday, 1 June with a ceremonial sunset and dinner at the Naval Dockyard in Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Rear Admiral Dewu appreciated the media for its continued support and called on journalists to give adequate publicity to the Navy Week activities.

    He then opened the floor for questions from members of the press.

  • Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, Area Controller Nigeria Customs Service Ogun I Command Idiroko Hands Over To Comptroller Olugbenga Otunla

    Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, Area Controller Nigeria Customs Service Ogun I Command Idiroko Hands Over To Comptroller Olugbenga Otunla

    The Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun I Command, Comptroller MS Shuaibu, has formally handed over the leadership of the Command to Comptroller GA Otunla, marking the end of a brief but impactful tenure characterized by enhanced anti-smuggling operations, strategic partnerships, and revenue generation.

    Speaking at the handing-over ceremony held at the Command’s headquarters in Idiroko, Shuaibu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve, describing his time at the helm as a defining moment in his long-standing career in the Nigeria Customs Service.

    “It has been an incredible journey, marked by challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons. Serving as the Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Command has been the pinnacle of this journey,” he said.

    During his three-month tenure, the Command recorded notable achievements, including the generation of ₦43,412,794.00 in revenue and 161 seizures of various contraband items. Among the seizures were 3,699 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, 150 sacks of Indian Hemp, three single-barrel long guns, four packets of cartridges totaling 100 rounds, and a cash haul of 7 billion CFA Francs.

    Shuaibu attributed the Command’s achievements to the dedication and professionalism of the officers under his leadership, as well as robust collaboration with sister security agencies, traditional rulers, and stakeholders in the border communities.

    “I am immensely proud of what we achieved together. Our efforts have positioned the Ogun I Command as a key player in Nigeria’s economic and security architecture,” he added.

    He urged officers, stakeholders, and sister agencies to extend full cooperation to his successor, Comptroller GA Otunla, emphasizing that continued support is essential for sustaining the Command’s progress.

    In his address, Shuaibu reflected on the tough decisions taken during his tenure, acknowledging that some may have stirred controversy but were necessary for the advancement of the Command. “Toes were stepped on, feathers were ruffled, but those decisions were never for personal gain. They were made in the interest of performance and national interest,” he said.

    Shuaibu thanked the Comptroller-General of Customs and the Service’s management for the trust and opportunity to lead, noting that his time in Ogun I Command had been fulfilling and transformative.

    Quoting Apostle Paul in conclusion, he said, “I have run with perseverance and have finished the race. Whether I have finished it successfully or not is not for me to say – I leave that to you.”

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