Category: News

…As CGC Adeniyi Revitalizes Airwing Operations

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has taken a significant step towards strengthening its air surveillance capabilities with the acquisition of a Cessna Grand Caravan EX-208B. The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, inspected the newly acquired aircraft on Friday, 20 September 2024, in Bartlesville, Washington, USA, marking a pivotal moment for the NCS airwing operations.

The aircraft, registered as 5N-BAA is set to enhance the Services’ air patrol and surveillance efforts. Powered by the reliable PT6 Pratt and Whitney engine, the Cessna Grand Caravan is globally recognised for its rugged versatility, short-field take-off and landing capabilities, and ability to operate on remote airstrips—making it ideally suited for border security operations in Nigeria.

CGC Adeniyi emphasized the importance of this acquisition, noting that the aircraft is fitted with the modern Garmin G1000 Avionics cockpit system, enabling operations under day, night, and low-visibility conditions. “This aircraft will be a game-changer for the Nigeria Customs Services’ Airwing. Its ability to carry 10 officers, coupled with its six-hour aerial endurance, will significantly enhance our capacity for air surveillance and border patrol,” CGC Adeniyi stated.

The Cessna Grand Caravan will play a crucial role in air patrols aimed at detecting smuggling routes, deploying armed personnel, and providing swift support for ground operations. “With this aircraft, we will strengthen our air border patrol capabilities, which will not only help us intercept illegal activities but also provide quick extraction support when necessary,” CGC Adeniyi explained, aligning the move with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

Additionally, the aircraft will serve as a strategic asset for Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd, offering logistical support and revenue generation for the Service. CGC Adeniyi underscored the cost-efficiency of the Cessna Grand Caravan, noting that its operational costs are relatively low compared to other aircraft in its class. “This is a long-term investment for the Service that not only enhances our operational efficiency but also contributes to the sustainability of our air surveillance programs,” he added.

Capt. Kuhi Mbaya, the Aircraft Operations Coordinator and Managing Director of Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd, lauded the acquisition as a milestone for the NCS aviation unit. “With this aircraft, the Nigeria Customs Service is poised to revitalize its air border patrol activities, securing our borders more effectively and improving revenue generation for both the Service and the nation,” Capt. Mbaya remarked.

The acquisition of the Cessna Grand Caravan is expected to provide significant tactical advantages to the Nigeria Customs Service, tightening border security, and sending a clear signal to economic saboteurs that the Service is better equipped than ever to combat smuggling activities.

The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Badagry has successfully intercepted and rescued seven suspected victims of human trafficking in two separate operations, leading to the arrest of an alleged trafficker. The victims, all young girls, were handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation.

In the first operation on October 1, 2024, around 3:20 PM, the Navy’s Quick Response Team (QRT) at the FOB Badagry jetty intercepted a fibre boat heading towards Panshi Jetty from Mile 2. During routine checks, four young women, aged between 19 and 21, were identified as potential victims of human trafficking. Upon interrogation, the girls revealed they were unaware of their exact destination but were instructed to call a contact once they arrived at Panshi Jetty. They were told someone would take them to the Republic of Benin and Mali, promising them a better life.

A similar incident occurred on October 2, 2024, at around 6:19 PM, when another fibre boat heading to Panshi Jetty was intercepted. During the routine stop and search, three more girls, aged between 15 and 17, were found to be victims of suspected trafficking. They were traveling with a woman identified as Mrs. Sharon Idehen, 29, who claimed to be their relative and was allegedly taking them to Ghana for a better life. Mrs. Idehen was arrested, and the girls, along with a one-year-old child, were taken into custody.

On October 4, 2024, the alleged trafficker and the seven victims were formally handed over to NAPTIP’s zonal office in Ikeja, Lagos, for further investigation and prosecution. This action is in line with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution (HSOP-AD&P) 2016.

Navy Captain Bitebobo Augustus Amakiri, the Commanding Officer of FOB Badagry, commended the efforts of the Quick Response Team, noting that the Nigerian Navy’s ongoing commitment to maritime security is aimed at ensuring a safe environment both in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea. These operations, he added, align with the Chief of Naval Staff’s Strategic Directive 2023-6, which emphasizes the importance of maritime security.

The Nigerian Navy’s swift response underscores its determination to combat human trafficking and ensure the safety of those at risk within its area of responsibility.

The Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) Badagry has rescued 12 young women suspected to be victims of human trafficking in two separate operations. The interceptions occurred on September 30, 2024, as part of the Navy’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal activities along the nation’s waterways.

In the first incident, the FOB Badagry Quick Response Team (QRT) deployed at Tongeji Island intercepted a fibre passenger boat en route to Panshin Jetty in Owode. During the routine search and interrogation of passengers, eight young women, aged between 19 and 24, were suspected to be victims of human trafficking.

Later that evening, at around 8:10 PM, another fibre boat transiting to the Republic of Benin was intercepted at the Base Jetty. Four additional young women, also suspected of being trafficked, were rescued during this operation.

On October 1, 2024, the 12 rescued victims were handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) Lagos State Border Patrol Command in Seme, Badagry, for further investigation. This handover was in accordance with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution (HSOP-AD&P) of 2006.

In the same vein, the operatives arrest of an alleged human trafficker and the rescue of three suspected victims of trafficking. This operation took place on September 30, 2024, when the FOB Badagry Quick Response Team (QRT) intercepted a fibre passenger boat near Tongeji Island en route to Panshin Jetty in Owode.

During a routine search and interrogation of the passengers, it was discovered that three young women, aged between 19 and 21, were being trafficked by one Mr. Chidubem Arinze. The trafficker reportedly intended to transport the women across the border into the Republic of Benin and further into Côte d’Ivoire.

Following the interception, the suspected trafficker was arrested, and the victims were safely rescued. On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, the suspect and the rescued victims were handed over to the Lagos Zonal Office of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further investigation and prosecution. This action is in line with the Harmonized Standard Procedures on Arrest, Detention, and Prosecution (HSOP-AD&P) of 2016.

Navy Captain Biterobo Augustus Amakiri, Commanding Officer of FOB Badagry, praised the swift action of the Navy personnel, emphasizing that these efforts align with the Chief of Naval Staff’s Strategic Directive 2023-6, which seeks to ensure a secure maritime environment in Nigeria and the Gulf of Guinea.

The Nigerian Navy continues to demonstrate its dedication to curbing human trafficking and other illegal activities in its Area of Responsibility (AOR), reinforcing maritime security and safeguarding vulnerable individuals.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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