Category: News

  • Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni Assumes Duty As Oloyede Bows Out At Tincan Island Port Command

    Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni Assumes Duty As Oloyede Bows Out At Tincan Island Port Command


    The new Customs Controller of Tin-Can Island Port command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni has taken up his new role at the command.

    Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni, while delivering his maiden address yesterday on the occasion of his official assumption of duty as the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Tincan Island Port Command expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and outlined his vision for the command.

    Addressing the gathering, Comptroller Nnadi extended his appreciation to all present for welcoming him back to Tin-Can Island Port Command, where he assumes the role of the 20th Customs Area Controller since the command’s inception in 1977.

    He noted that it is always a pleasure to be part of the maritime industry and that he is eager to continue the ongoing reforms, both from his personal perspective and on behalf of the Nigeria Customs Service.

    Recognizing the dynamic nature of the maritime industry, Comptroller Nnadi stressed the importance of stakeholders working together to find solutions to individual and collective needs.

    He emphasized the need for proactive leadership and urged all stakeholders to lead from the front.

    Comptroller Nnadi outlined the key performance indicators for the Nigeria Customs Service, which include revenue collection, anti-smuggling efforts, and service delivery (facilitation of trade). These indicators, he noted, are essential in measuring the agency’s performance and will remain relevant until Nigeria achieves full economic development.

    The Comptroller acknowledged the challenging task ahead, with the command’s revenue target exceeding 801 billion Naira and standing at 52 percent completion with only three months left in the year 2023.

    The Tin-Can Port boss expressed confidence in achieving the remaining 48 percent of the revenue target, despite the challenges posed by the floating exchange rate affecting importers and exporters.

    Regarding security, Comptroller Nnadi emphasized the Customs Command’s role in securing the nation by intervening against economic saboteurs and those who import illicit goods that contribute to insecurity in the country.

    He commended the outgoing Controller and the command’s officers for their recent seizure of two containers of tramadol, reaffirming the commitment to combating the importation of illicit and unapproved drugs.

    In his words: “The concept of regional trade integration is pursuant to the new world order which encourages cooperation between independent countries within a region or sub region as the case may be to speed up economic and social development through removal of barriers in trade and movement of persons which may impede free movement of goods and services within a particular region.

    “This strategic agenda between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin is in line with the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) and would aid smooth transitioning into the Africa Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)”

    The CAC highlighted the recent agreement between the Customs Administrations of Nigeria and Benin to develop frameworks for clearing Nigeria-bound goods in Benin Ports and vice versa.

    He called for improved business processes and increased efficiency in service delivery to remain competitive with other ports in the subregion.

    Comptroller Nnadi called for the cooperation of shipping companies, terminal operators, and other government agencies in the command’s efforts to rebrand and improve service delivery.

    He stressed the importance of respecting various mandates and avoiding interference in revenue-related transactions, except where it falls within their regulatory functions.

    Nnadi assured that he would maintain an open-door policy for seamless trade while remaining resolute in his commitment to prevent activities that compromise the service’s mandates.

    He concluded by urging everyone to offer solutions rather than assign blame for the challenges facing the maritime industry.

    Comptroller Dera Nnadi, mni, assumes the role of Customs Area Controller at Tincan Island Port Command with a determination to lead the command toward greater efficiency and effectiveness.

  • Ogun II Customs Rakes N21.1 Billion From Excise Duty In 11 Months

    Ogun II Customs Rakes N21.1 Billion From Excise Duty In 11 Months


    The Ogun II Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it generated N14.650 billion from excise duty between January and August, 2023.

    The outgone Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu made this known after handing over leadership of the Command to the newly redeployed Controller, Comptroller Adebisi Alade at the Command’s headquarters on Wednesday, September 13, 2023.

    Giving a breakdown of the revenue collection, Compt. Shuaibu said: “The command generated N2.259 billion in January, N1.301 billion in February; N2.336 billion in March, N1.596 billion in April and N1.766 billion in May. “In June, N898 million was generated while N1.857 billion and N2.634 billion were generated in July and August, 2023.”

    Shuaibu noted that the feat was achieved because of stakeholders paid their excise duties as at when due despite the economic realities.

    He explained: “Today marks another milestone in our career. This meeting cannot be possible without the contribution of our stakeholders and officers. Our contribution since we assumed leadership are modest. It’s not easy to collect revenue and we have deep respect and regard for our stakeholders.

    “However, inspite of the economic realities you have paid your duty as at when it’s time and you pay accordingly. I am elated to tell you that you have done well eventhough the business environment is not easy, you pay taxes to state, local government and Customs. The template is set, no need for fear and anxiety especially with officers and stakeholders so if we can’t it, we should maintain status quo”.

    On his part, the newly redeployed Controller, Compt. Alade promised to follow the footstep of his predecessor to take the command to greater height.

    According to him, trade facilitation, production, ease of doing business, as well as the ease of movement will be prioritise under his leadership; adding that he will reward hardworking officers.

    He said: “As long that there is production and for Naira to rise, there must be production, we are here to help you so production and trade are related. We know the law and we won’t violate it but we will administer the law to facilitate trade.

    “As long there is production, Naira will rise. I promise to do my best and you should expect the best from you.

    Compt. Alade continued: “I promise you amiable, considerate and welfarist leadership. I expect absolute loyalty. Also, revenue target is a fear and for the first time, revenue target is before me and this target is for all of us. I have the carrot and stick and I believe there are lot of benefits in using the carrot. I promise able leadership.

    “The revenue must not drop. Please let’s do our work deligently because this is a revenue command and when we do our work diligently in Excise command, revenue will come. So, let’s work harder so that our revenue will beat that of the former Comptroller”.

    Hybrid News reports that the Ogun II command is saddled with the responsibilities of enforcing and regulating all Excise (industries under Excise control), Free Trade Zone and Parcel Post related activities in Ogun State.

  • Five Years Of Nurturing Rule Of Law Culture At DSS

    Five Years Of Nurturing Rule Of Law Culture At DSS

    By Emeka Francis

    There is no gainsaying that the rule of law is the foundation upon which modern and contemporary societies draw their meaning and essence. This much was accentuated by the French philosopher and Judge, Baron Montesquieu in his book, The Spirit of the Laws.

    According to the 18th century historian, “the use of political power is subject to the formal constraint of standing rules that are codified in the positive laws of the land. It means that no one is above the law and that the actions of the state must conform in a consistent way to publicly known standards. The rule of law is the single most important factor, as Montesquieu sees it, in establishing moderation in government and therefore in protecting political liberty.

    It is interesting to note that, as a non-profit and independent civil society organisation committed to the deepening of the rule of law and democratic governance in Nigeria, we had undertaken the task of assessing critical institutions of government, especially security agencies, based on their compliance with the rule of law/due process.

    During this period of discreet monitoring that spanned between August 2018, and August 2023, the Coalition for Peace In Nigeria (COPIN) found the State Security Service (SSS), also known as the Department of State Services (DSS) to be outstanding in that regard.

    Consequently, our team took particular interest in the SSS because of the August, 2018 violation of the sanctity of the Parliament by hooded and fierce-looking personnel, who blocked the entrance to the hallowed institution, thereby preventing lawmakers from accessing their “sanctuaries”. Clearly, the intelligence agency descended into the arena, even as the development remains a sour point in the annals of the nation’s history.

    The period under review coincided with the appointment of Alhaji YM Bichi (fwc, CFR) as the Director General of the State Service (DG SS), by former President Muhammadu Buhari, on September 13 2023; he resumed on September 14 2018. This explains why this performance score revolves around the spy master

    In the course of our evaluation, we discovered that suspects in the custody of the Service, especially high-profile ones, are held pursuant to properly-secured, valid orders of courts of competent jurisdiction.

    Under Alh. Bichi, our observation team found that, before suspects are taken into custody, preliminary investigations into pending cases would have been concluded, and prima facie evidence established.

    In line with its standard operating procedure (SOP), which accords with global best practices, the suspect is then invited to appear at a convenient date for what is referred to as “interview”, in security circles. Adherence to these processes and procedures are a defining characteristic of due process, and the rule of law by any responsible agency of the State.

    Without prejudice to the current status of the trial of the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, we are aware that, upon his re-arrest sometime in June 2021, the Federal High Court in Abuja had granted the DSS the permission to remand the separatist agitator in custody.

    In a similar vein, and having shown more than passing interest in the case involving the suspended Governor of the Central of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, we realized that the Bichi-led agency was in possession of a valid order of court, to hold the apex banker pending arraignment, which has since happened.

    We found it curious, however, that the remand order granted by a court of record, was not given as much publicity as other instances, which portrayed the secret organisation in negative light, thereby suggesting deliberate put-it-down campaign by those the institution that is charged with the responsibility of detecting and prevention of crimes and threats against national (internal) security, refer to as subversive elements.

    For instance, on the lawful arrest of Emefiele, we discovered that a competent court, in a ruling, had refused to grant the following reliefs sought by the Applicant: an Order setting aside his arrest and detention by the Service; an Order setting aside the detention Order obtained by the Service; an Injunction restraining the Service from further arresting and detaining him. The Court, however, noted that since the detention Order exhibited by the Service has expired on 10th July 2023 the Service is hereby Ordered to arraign him within 48hrs or release him on bail. Investigation revealed that that order has since been complied with.

    We seize this platform to note that a recent opinion article written by the Public Relations Officer of the SSS, Dr. Peter Afunanya, corroborated our finding of adherence to the dictates of the rule of law, as well as due process, which is the fulcrum of democratic governance.

    For the sake of clarity, the relevant aspects of the write-up are reproduced herein: “The Service operates on the basis of rule of law. Its operations are rule governed. As required, it obtains arrest and detention warrants when and if needed. For the fact that such instruments are not advertised does not suggest otherwise. Critics should get conversant with the law and rules of engagement and desist from misinforming, misleading or inciting the public.

    “Those seeking to weaken the Service through premeditated reforms may be on a wild goose chase. Consistent attack on it based on ignorance, unrealised interests and emotional assessments and judgements does the country no good. The DSS has stood so firmly for Nigeria. It will continue to.

    “For those who canvass the opinion that the DSS has no business in investigating the matters referred to it are obviously not taking seriously the omnibus powers of the President, as enshrined in the enabling Acts of the SSS and the NSA”

    The Coalition for Peace In Nigeria will not end this piece without reiterating our non-aligned, non-profit, and patriotic disposition in the quest to berth a Nigeria that will assume her pride of place in the comity of civilized nation’s.

    While encouraging other agencies of government to emulate the fidelity of the DSS to the principle of rule of law, we congratulate Alh. Bichi on his 2nd year anniversary as the head of the foremost domestic intelligence agency.

    Francis, the National President of COPIN wrote from Abuja, the nation’s capital

  • Minister Bosun, Your Inquiry About NIPOST Is Timely — GridCodes

    Minister Bosun, Your Inquiry About NIPOST Is Timely — GridCodes

    Nigeria and Nigerians face a reputational challenge in the global technology arena, and we urgently need to counter the unfair narrative surrounding Nigerians in the tech sector.

    GridCode Technology offers a unique opportunity for Nigeria to shine on the global stage. It’s a homegrown technological solution that addresses a crucial infrastructure problem, one that 75% of countries worldwide are still grappling with. This is a narrative you should be deeply interested in.

    Your approach as a minister in seeking citizen input for policy formulation is commendable and groundbreaking. You’ve opened a new door in governance by using social media as a platform for direct engagement, where leaders actively seek opinions rather than being solely on the receiving end of demands.

    Your commitment to this engagement is setting a high standard, and it’s apt that you’ve chosen NIPOST as a testbed, considering its historical struggles to modernize.

    NIPOST has faced numerous challenges, including attempts to commercialize assets, partnerships with foreign companies, and efforts to license logistics/delivery firms. The common thread in these struggles is addressing, the core issue. If we get addressing right, it will lay the foundation for all other commercial services. Even when GridCodes, a globally acclaimed digitally navigable addressing innovation, emerged from Nigeria, NIPOST missed the opportunity.

    GridCodes is now thriving in Rwanda, operating as iPOSITA, Nigeria’s equivalent of NIPOST. Perhaps, Minister Bosun, you can rectify this situation. What are the key obstacles?

    Providing accurate, digitally navigable addresses for all buildings falls under a nation’s responsibility, tied to land rights. Countries like the UK and the US achieved address codification over several decades and at significant costs. Emerging nations like Nigeria can’t afford this luxury. This is where disruption enters the picture, much like how wireless technologies replaced cabled telephone lines.

    GridCodes offers Nigeria a chance to leapfrog traditional methods, delivering superior address codification, even better than the UK’s PostCodes. Every codified address can become operational immediately, and with proper execution, the entire country can be covered in 12-18 months.
    We’re now in 2023, and this could have been accomplished by 2020/21. Regrettably, opportunities were missed, well-documented in the public domain.

    Starting in 2018, when the Founder of GridCodes raised concerns about a contract with a British competitor, the Digital Addressing Council, under VP Osinbajo’s leadership, evaluated the system for national adoption. It passed all evaluations but hit roadblocks. It’s a common global knowledge that the military-industrial complex often fosters innovations that contribute to a nation’s GDP.

    In this case, the founder of GridCodes, a retired Nigerian Air Force officer, is well-respected in the industry. The GridCode Technology is widely seen as the solution.

    Minister Bosun, here’s a solution that can address multiple challenges. The ball is in your court.”

  • Ecobank Announces Back-To-School Packages For Customers

    Ecobank Announces Back-To-School Packages For Customers

    Ecobank Nigeria is offering special loan packages for parents and guardians to enable them pay school fees for their children and wards ahead of resumption for the 2023/2024 school year. In another master stroke, the bank is making special infrastructure loans available to educational institutions. This, according to the bank, will equip them adequately for the new session. The bank also said it has optimised its digital platforms to make them convenient for school fees and other education-related payments.

    Announcing the various ‘back to school’ initiatives of the bank in Lagos, Head, Consumer Banking, Korede Demola-Adeniyi, said it is in line with the bank’s overall strategy to support the development of the nation’s education sector, adding that Ecobank’s digital offerings are targeted at reducing the financial burden on parents, students and schools, and also facilitating the ease of payment of fees without hassles. She listed the digital offerings to include Ecobank Mobile App, EcobankPay and Ecobank Online for contactless fees payment; personal loans and salary advance packages at competitive interest rates, international transfers for offshore school fees payment and affordable remittance offerings. She also noted that families abroad who wish to send money home to help with fees can do so at zero charges on the Rapidtransfer app. 

    The bank has also provided the Banking-for-School pack for educational institutions to access working capital and loans. The features of this pack include easy fee collections, zero charges on collection accounts with EcobankPay, secure online banking with Omni Lite and cards for easy payments. Speaking specifically on the loans available for the educational institutions, she noted that they could be accessed without bottlenecks as the bank has taken into cognisance the country’s current economic realities.

    According to her, “As a bank that is passionate about education, we are prioritizing the pedagogical needs of our customers at this period when schools resume. Children deserve to go to school and we are making it easy for parents to provide them this basic right.” Mrs. Demola-Adeniyi urged schools to appoint the bank as their preferred financial institution for payments and collections, noting that Ecobank has demonstrated pedigree and expertise in fees collection, locally and internationally. She encouraged schools and individuals that are yet to open Ecobank accounts to do so in order to access the offers available.

  • Nigerian Navy Partner HMS Trent On Maritime Security Mission To West Africa

    Nigerian Navy Partner HMS Trent On Maritime Security Mission To West Africa


    …Offshore Patrol Vessel HMS Trent Strengthens UK-Nigeria Maritime Security Synergy

    …The HMS Trent, a state-of-the-art British Royal Navy ship, is on a month-long assignment in the Gulf of Guinea

    The offshore patrol vessel HMS Trent, operated by the Royal Navy of the United Kingdom, has made a significant return to Lagos, Nigeria, marking the second visit in recent years.

    Commander Langford, leading his crew on this mission, expressed the honour and pleasure of being alongside their Nigerian counterparts during this visit, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in addressing maritime insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea and the broader West African region.

    Commander Langford highlighted the continuity of purpose, as a few members of his ship’s company had participated in the 2021 visit.

    In his words: “This visit provides an opportunity for the UK and Nigeria to collaborate closely with the Nigerian Navy to counter maritime insecurity, including piracy, counter-narcotics activities, and combating illegal fishing”

    Also speaking, Mr. Johnny Baxter, the Deputy British High Commissioner based in Lagos, extended a warm welcome to Commander Langford and his crew aboard HMS Trent.

    He underlined the significance of the UK’s relationship with Nigeria and praised the vital support provided by the Nigerian Navy during the visit.

    The Deputy High Commissioner emphasized the need for stability, safety, and prosperity in Nigeria, as it plays a pivotal role in Africa, boasting the continent’s second-largest economy and its largest population.

    Baxter pointed out that the UK-Nigeria trade relationship is thriving, with a current value of €7.6 billion pounds, and expressed optimism about further economic collaboration.

    When asked about the activities planned for the visit’s initial days, Commander Langford discussed collaborative efforts with the Nigerian Navy on various fronts, with a focus on countering piracy, narcotics, and other illicit maritime activities.

    He stressed the importance of nations working together to address the rising piracy threats in the Gulf of Guinea.

    Regarding the nature of this visit compared to the previous one in 2021, Commander Langford clarified that it is indeed a routine exercise conducted with friendly nations.

    He emphasized that Nigeria remains a preferred partner for the UK, with historical ties, and expressed regret that the pandemic had delayed their return.

    In response to whether this visit is aimed at boosting Nigeria’s security, Commander Langford emphasized that it presents an opportunity for both navies to identify solutions to maritime insecurity collectively.

    He highlighted the importance of sharing lessons learned and working together at sea and in training exercises.

    Finally, Commander Langford revealed that this marks only the second visit of HMS Trent to Nigeria for this purpose, with a brief hiatus due to the global pandemic.

    The visit of HMS Trent to Lagos underscores the commitment of the United Kingdom to strengthening maritime security and cooperation with Nigeria, ultimately contributing to stability and prosperity in the Gulf of Guinea and the wider West African region.

    The Royal Navy is here because the UK is a committed partner for Nigeria and the wider West African region.”

    “We will continue to work with the Nigerian authorities to address illegal activity; improve maritime security; counter-piracy and tackle the Illegal Wildlife Trade.”

  • Apelogun Congratulates Tinubu, Says Okada Remains Cheapest Means Of Commuting After Subsidy Removal

    Apelogun Congratulates Tinubu, Says Okada Remains Cheapest Means Of Commuting After Subsidy Removal


    Amb. (Prince) Adebayo Samsudeen Apelogun, the National President of Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle and Tricycle Owners, Repairers and Riders Association of Nigeria ACOMORAN, and GMD of All-rounder Groups, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR on his victory at the Tribunal.

    In a press release from his office, Apelogun asked the President and particularly the Honourable Minister of Transportation, Sa’idu Alkali to properly harmonise and strengthen every sub-sector of the transportation industry as Commuters now see motorcycles and tricycles as the cheapest means to their transportation needs, cushioning the effect of petrol subsidy removal, while the riders also see it as a source of livelihood, reducing the level of unemployment in the country.

    He said, “We introduced uncompromisable enforcements mechanism to regulate riders’ attitude, adherence to Safety, compliance to traffic regulations, proper identification of riders and effective monitoring their operations to ensure local and national security is not breached.

    “The Ministry of Transportation should foster collaboration with the Motorcycle and Tricycle Riders Association to create a special registration number with Riders’ codes that can be easily verified through any Mobile Telephone Network provider. The workability has being carefully explained on our website (www.acomoran.org), the adoption of the idea by the present government will give the transport sector a better operational leverage compared to what it was several years ago”

    “Lagos Blue Rail line project and the Abuja Metro Line forms part of the standard transport systems, however, the use of Motorcycles for public transportation which started in Nigeria in the 1970’s in about 5 States, before spreading to Lagos and other States in the 1980s can not be undermined especially in the rural communities where road network are very poor and almost non existent where the food basket of Nigeria is located.

    “The fact remains that Commercial motorcycles and tricycle unions rank among the front-liners in revenue generation in some states as well as one of the highest employers of labour in Nigeria considering the over 25 million membership strength. Hence, the importance of the impactful standardisation of the union which Prince Apelogun has embarked upon in the last five years.

    “The transportation sector of any economy is always its backbone. This is the network that connects every part of a country together, it connects homes to religious gatherings, connects farms to markets and even connects students’ accommodation to schools however, Public transport is a critical means by which citizens can effectively access goods and services across the expanse of today’s cities.” Apelogun said.

    The National President has religiously ensured that the Ministry of Transportation and other management staffs are carried along with the activities of the union in order to foster collaboration, evident in the timely and regular exchange of ideas and brainstorming on areas of interest with a view to building the transport sector and improving the union.

    Apelogun, who is well known to many as “All Rounder” given the thick and thin he has been through in the days of core and the capacity to rise to prominence in the union, is believed to have a magic finger with a calm and gentle mien of achieving any set goal. Without delay, he put the machinery in motion to ensure he doesn’t disappoint his teeming supporters and well-wishers by commencing a nationwide consultation across the 36 states to find ways out of the woods for the union.

    It is on record that under this dispensation in the ACOMORAN, all the 36 state chapters, including the Federal Capital Territory, are functioning effectively without any scores to settle with their respective state governments. This is due to the dynamic leadership of the man at the helm of the affairs of the union. Under the watch of Alhaji Apelogun, the union successfully conducted elections in Ogun, Oyo, and Osun states and successfully put new leaders in place.

    It is on record that there had never been a time in the history of ACOMORAN before now that the union had a better relationship with relevant government agencies such as this. The Apelogun-led administration has been able to move ACOMORAN closer to government agencies in a way that has placed the entire union at a vantage point.

    However, the efforts of the present leadership of ACOMORAN have changed public perception about commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators.

    In Nigeria today, Alhaji Adebayo Shamsudeen Apelogun is without doubt writing his name in gold with his sterling leadership qualities through which he is driving the affairs of ACOMORAN for greater opportunities across the country and beyond the shores of Nigeria. And it would not be out of place to say that a model for other transport unions in the country is here!

  • Nigeria Customs Service Confiscates N1.8 Billion Contrabands In Seme Command

    Nigeria Customs Service Confiscates N1.8 Billion Contrabands In Seme Command


    The Seme Border Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) made N1,904,459, 390.77 revenue between January 23 and September 8, 2023, which represents 97.2% of N1,960,000,000 allotted target for the year. This shows an increase of 51.98% from the N885,543,098.11 made in the corresponding period for 2022.

    The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni, who made this known while briefing Maritime Reporters on the activities of his Command for the period under review in Badagry today, said the achievement was a result of painstaking efforts made in partnership with stakeholders.

    You may recall that in its anti-smuggling efforts, the Command made a headline seizures of fake six million US dollars equivalent to N2.7 billion naira. This is in addition to other notable seizures recorded between January and August 2023.

    The Duty Paid Value (DPV) for items seized for the period of January to September 8 2023 is 1,827, 362, 619. 00.

    They include: 6,569 of 50kg bags of rice equivalent to 16 trailer loads of foreign parboiled rice with a DPV of N312,242, 064.93k; 13,835 x 30 liters Jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) equivalent to 415,050 liters or 13 petroleum tankers with Duty Paid Value of 738,276, 461k and 15,389 of general merchandise goods.

    Hard Drugs and Narcotics: 41 parcels of Cannabis Sativa; 4,900 Tablets 225mg of Tramadol Tamol-X; 3,600 Tablets 225mg Tramadol Royal 225; 157 Tablets of Heineken Ecstacy, and 864 Packs of Cigarette.

    Similarly, operatives of the Command acting on credible intelligence intercepted 1,364 of 30 liters jerrycans of PMS equivalent to 40,800 litres over one tanker load with a DPV of N24,663,355 at the early hours of Friday, September 8, along the Badagry Coast.

    According to the Area Controller, Comptroller Dera Nnadi mni, Seme Command advantageously lies on the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor (ALCO) which connects Lagos-Cotonou-Lomé-Accra-Abidjan, but noted that the region is yet to maximise this advantage.

    He said: “The significance of the corridor as an economic, cultural and political platform for regional integration of West Africa cannot be over emphasised.

    With a population of over 350 million people, the corridor and Command accounts for about 70 per cent of the transit traffic in the ECOWAS sub-region”

    “The route is also a component of the Lagos-Kano-Jibiya (LAKAJI) corridor which extends from Lagos through Ogun, Oyo, Kwara, Niger, Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa and Kastina states in Nigeria. The LAKAJI corridor compliments the trade route from Abidjan through Cotonou to Niamey and even to Libya and Egypt.

    Nnadi stated that the Seme Area Command is the platform for the sustenance of the regional integration expected to be driven through the ECOWAS Protocol on the free movement of persons, goods, and services, the implementation of the various trade policies of the sub-region and the continent especially the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) and the emerging African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    “The objective of the ETLS and AfCFTA is to liberalise trade by abolishing customs duties and fees on imports and exports and the elimination of non-tariff barriers among member states. It is intended to achieve unhindered market access to the countries of the sub-region. Seme Area Command has worked assiduously to ensure that the region optimises this expectation.

    “Among the trade blocks in Africa, the ECOWAS region has a population of 428.6 million people and ranks second in Africa after East Africa region with a population of 474.9 million people. It is expected that the potential inherent in this advantageous position will be translated to increased trade among countries of the ECOWAS subregion especially between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin with a combined population of nearly 250 million people.

    “Sadly, ECOWAS ranks fourth at 10 per cent when it comes to trade within the African Continent. Southern African Development Community (SADC) with a population of 69.2 million people ranks first in trading among themselves at 32.12 percent, Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) at 20.32 per cent, and Community of Sahel-Saharan States (CEN-SAD) at 16.59 per cent.

    “This is an indication that the ECOWAS region is yet to maximize the gains of ETLS. Again, this underscores the level of our limited preparedness for the African Continental Fre Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    “Several factors have been adjudged to hamper trade (between Nigeria and her proximate neighbour) within the sub-region especially transit trade across the countries and along the corridor. There have been several complaints by operators against the closure of the borders, the non-adherence to transit agreements signed under the ECOWAS, World Trade Organisation (WTO), World Customs Organisation (WCO) and the General Agreement on Trade and Tariff”.

    “Upon my assumption of duty on the 23 of January, 2023, I pledged to adopt new strategies to boost trade while enforcing the nation’s anti-smuggling laws along the Abidjan Lagos Corridor (ALCO) in line with the ECOWAS protocols on free movement of goods and persons.

    “I also promised along with officers and men to encourage compliant traders along the corridor bearing in mind the challenges of the JBP as one that is still recovering from the effects of the border closure. We have kept faith with that as will be explained in due course.

    ‘It is important to note that the Nigeria 2022 Fiscal Policy Measures by the Federal Ministry of Finance lifted the ban on export of goods imported into Nigeria hitherto prohibited under item 8 Schedule 6 of the Common External Tariff. It is hoped that our stakeholders take full advantage of this gesture while our brothers from other countries in the sub-region particularly the Republic of Benin will reciprocate this gesture where there are existing trade barriers.

    “It is gratifying to note that the CGC and the government of both countries and the stakeholders are all on the same page regarding the need to improve our relationship with a view to maximize the opportunities offered by the proximity of our two countries to the border and develop trade along the corridor”.

    The anti-smuggling czar disclosed that in line with the Service’s dictate of encouraging its personnels, the Officers and Men of the Command that were involved in the seizures of fake $6,000,000 currency, 15 fake international passports and 10 Driver’s license, and that of Donkey skins in January have been commended by the Ag. Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

    He presented the commendation and congratulatory letters from the Command to the beneficiaries today.

    Comptroller Nnadi appreciated the CGC for his support to the Command, as well as the Seme Badagry Community for their cooperation and to officers and men of the Command for their gallantry and patriotism.

  • Acting NCS CG Marks Official Groundbreaking Of Customs Service Zone B Headquarters In Mando, Kaduna

    Acting NCS CG Marks Official Groundbreaking Of Customs Service Zone B Headquarters In Mando, Kaduna


    The Ag. Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, on Thursday, 7th August 2023, performed a groundbreaking ceremony for the massive construction of Customs Service Zone B Headquarters.

    The extraordinary edifice of 25 hectares of land situated in the Mando area of Kaduna State is part of CGC’s unalloyed commitment to improve the welfare and efficiency of the Service.

    Speaking at the ceremony, the CGC described the initiative as a magnificent project that will pave the way to establishing a solid and efficient infrastructure to drive the activities of the Service.

    “I am glad to be here this morning, and as previously stated, this is the second project site I will be visiting – and it is my wish that this site will be put to a difference in remarkable readiness and preparations.”

    According to him, redefining the Nigeria Customs Service has been his priority since he assumed duty as the Ag. Comptroller-General of the Service, “to continue from where my immediate predecessor stopped – to fast-track a more robust implementation of a good project for the Service.”

    The Customs Boss, who said that the to-be-completed Zone B Headquarters is one of the ongoing projects that the Service started across the federation, assured the construction company of his support to ensure it is delivered in good time.

    He also told the Chairman of CCECC Nigeria Limited that once the project is delivered on time and in good shape, it will open ways for them to get more opportunities from the Service.

    Earlier, the Chairman of the Chinese-owned construction company, CCECC Nigeria Limited, Jason Zhang, commended the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, for entrusting them with the responsibility to construct the Zone B Headquarters.

    He said the construction will serve as a landmark project for the Service, adding that “your presence today emphasizes the significance of this occasion – and I want to assure you of our esteem commitment to deliver this project properly.”

    Speaking to journalists shortly after laying the project’s foundation, the CGC said the Headquarters will be more of a cantonment that entails everything the Service needs for optimal Customs operation in Zone B and other places across the Federation.

    The site at mando consists of Nigeria Customs Service Zone B Headquarters, Auditorium, Residential Accommodation for the ACG, Comptrollers then block of flats for DCs, ACs, CSC and other ranks.

    Other facilities include Farmers Market, shopping mall, religious buildings, water treatment plant, sewage treatment plant, roads and drainage.

  • The Mu’azu Jaji Sambo I Know. Happy Birthday To A Distinguished Nigerian

    The Mu’azu Jaji Sambo I Know. Happy Birthday To A Distinguished Nigerian

    I’m not one given to sycophancy or vain praise, but in the last few months, working for and walking with the highly revered Mu’azu Jaji Sambo has expanded my worldview on certain life issues and rejigged my commitment to humanity more than ever before.

    Calling him a great man alone doesn’t encapsulate the essence of his being in its entirety. Without any attempt at exaggeration, it is safe to term him an “angel” among men.

    When meeting him for the first time, it is easy to underestimate him. His quiet mien, unassuming disposition, respectful worldview, genuine genuflection and accommodating spirit are not characteristics you find among politicians, respectfully speaking, albeit Mu’azu Jaji Sambo is all shade good.

    Watching him tuck his legs under his frame on a prayer mat in utter reverence and piety to his maker, or watching him bask in the air of conviviality among his kin and acquaintances, it is easy to label him as just any person, but a careful look at him through the lenses of a wise soul dawns upon one that he is greatness and mastery packed into a person.

    The verisimilitude of his essence exudes grace, his persona is endearing, his laughter is infectious, his concerns are sincere, his people skills are top-notch, his cerebral acuity is unique, his fatherly mien is large, his experience is vast, his philosophies are deep, his soul is beautiful, and above all, his type is rare.

    When you are around him, you can’t help but notice his distinct cerebral acuity. Chai, Alhaji Sambo, is brilliant and vast.

    A voracious reader and a methodical fellow. Nothing is in a rush. Never!
    The exuberance of youth beclouding me is always enveloped with his calmness, genuine smiles and fatherly mien. He always has a superior perspective.

    His people’s spirit is unique. He always seeks out the good in others. Philanthropist generalissimo. He believes in people, no matter their creed or clime; as long as you draw breath, you will be heard.

    His humility is infectious; he doesn’t believe in titles or appellations. No Engineer, No Honourable, nothing. Just call me Mu’azu, that’s all. It was tough at the initial stage, but he didn’t care. Call me Muazu, he says.

    Mu’azu Jaji Sambo is impeccably neat. His clothes are all well-ironed, you can’t but notice him in the crowd. His babariga sits comfortably on his square shoulder, and his carriage is so endearing. His graceful walk step is a talk for another day.

    His assumption as the 43rd Honourable Minister of Transportation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria will forever shape the history of our transportation sector as a country.

    On assuming office, he decided to go after the proverbial low-hanging fruits that will positively impact the maritime landscape in a short time – 9 months. He took a thorough assessment of projects in all parastatals under the ministry, made a list of deliverables, and put in the will and resources to achieve them.

    Without knowing the proponents behind the Badagry Seaport, reading through the memorandum and being convinced that it would further boost shipping activities in Nigeria, he presented it to the Federal Executive Council at his maiden appearance and got immediate approval.

    He fast-tracked the realization of bringing shipping closer to the hinterlands of Nigeria through the established policy of Inland Dry Ports (IDPs). To this end, the inland dry ports of Dala in Kano, Kano state and Funtua in Katsina state were declared as ports of origin and final destination, following the completion of all necessary infrastructure at the two locations.

    Within his short time as well, the Lekki Deep Sea Port was commissioned by the then President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR. He also got the approval for the Development of the Ilaje Deep seaport in Ondo State, Snake Island in Lagos and the Burutu Port in Delta State. These ports are to be executed through Public -public-private partnership (PPP) arrangements and will enhance the activities of this chamber in the long run.

    Subsequently, against all odds, he got the Presidential approval to disburse the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund. In the same vein, he got approval for a cargo tracking scheme for all imports and exports across all borders and seas. The Electronic Cargo tracking note which is an official marine waiver certificate document required by several African countries to effectively control and manage import/export traffic has come to stay. This scheme will block revenue leakages and provide transparency in cargo invoicing. The implementation of this scheme will abet the problem of under-declaration, concealment and wrong classification of cargo.

    Furthermore, his appointment as the Taraba State Coordinator of the Tinubu/Shettima Campaign Council in conducting an effective message-driven campaign leading to the Tinubu/Shettima ticket’s victory in the 2023 presidential election was worthy of commendation.

    He delivered on his mandate, against all odds. I make bold to say, that MJS spent the bulk of his funds in ensuring Taraba State delivers on its mandate for the presidential Election. He won’t rest on his oars, working with his kinsmen and the enviable structure he has put in place, across all wards and polling units, ensuring he delivers on his mandate. Immediately after the vote casting, he instructed that a situation room be opened and all election results be collated in real-time, and transmitted to the Central APC Monitoring room in real-time.

    He won’t bat his eyelids but was alert all through in ensuring he doesn’t fail his principals. I remember vividly, that he stood for hours on a stretch, analysing results, comparing notes with polling unit officers and seeking the views of critical stakeholders to ensure they were within the purview of their mandate. He was a proponent of politics of no bitterness.

    The victory of the party was not negotiable and this surpasses personal interest.

    He believes in teamwork across all strata.

    A lot to say about the good man, Mu’azu, but this day is unique, being his birthday, at the right time we will give voice to our thoughts and make known the indelible marks made by this distinguished Nigerian.

    As you Celebrate Another year of Excellence in good health and a heart filled with kindness, we pray that the Almighty God will continue to reward you.

    Your exemplary leadership is worthy of emulation, your vision for nation-building, team spirit and elevating the lives of many through sincerity, diligence, passion and hard work is what we all admire.

    May the Almighty God Keep Safe from Harm.

    Baba Nana!
    Tafida Beka!
    A jolly good fellow
    A fine Gentleman
    Philanthropist Generalissimo
    A team Player
    An active listener
    A team Player,
    An Epitome of Simplicity and Humility
    A detrabalised Nigerian
    An illustrious son of Muri
    CON kena!

    Happy Birthday good sir.

    Sam Idiagbonya
    SA M&P to MJS

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