Category: News

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has held a high-level bilateral meeting with the Tanzania Shipping Agencies Cooperation (TASAC) aimed at strengthening regional collaboration and supporting the growth of Africa’s maritime sector.

According to a statement signed by the Deputy Director/Head, Public Relations, Mr. Osagie Edward, FNIPR “The meeting which was held on the side lines of the IMO General Assembly, also included the endorsement of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) by the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, and the Alternate Permanent Representative of Tanzania’s Mission to International Maritime Organisation, Dr. Devotha Edward Mandanda.

The MoU reaffirms the commitment of both nations to advancing maritime surveillance, developing seafarer capacity, strengthening cabotage administration, and expanding the use of digital information systems. It also outlines continuous knowledge sharing initiatives aimed at boosting operational effectiveness.

Both sides emphasized that the MoU marks the start of a new phase in regional maritime collaboration. They expressed confidence that the partnership will enhance maritime governance, improve operational capacity, and support the development of strong and resilient maritime institutions that contribute to sustainable growth across Africa.

Also at the meeting was the NIMASA Governing Board Chairman, Hon. Yusuf Hamisu Abubakar, Executive Directors, and Nigeria’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the IMO, William Bwala.

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, on Wednesday, 10 December 2025, received a delegation of the American Business Council (ABC) on a courtesy visit to the Customs House, Maitama, Abuja, with both sides agreeing to deepen structured engagements aimed at improving trade facilitation and strengthening investor confidence.

Welcoming the delegation, CGC Adeniyi said the Nigeria Customs Service has, in recent years, made deliberate efforts to institutionalise transparency, stakeholder consultation and regular engagement with industry players.
“No modern Customs administration can thrive without meaningful dialogue with the people who drive business across our ports and borders,” he said.

He stated that the Service has prioritised reforms that enhance predictability for traders, including the deployment of the One-Stop-Shop initiative across major commands to streamline processes and reduce delays during cargo examination and documentation.

Responding to concerns raised by ABC member companies, the CGC assured the delegation that Customs will continue to address operational challenges within its mandate. He emphasised that trade facilitation remains a shared responsibility among multiple agencies and underscored the importance of sustained dialogue to resolve issues as they arise.

Speaking earlier, Chief Executive Officer of the American Business Council, Margaret Olele, said the visit was aimed at strengthening ties with the Nigeria Customs Service. She acknowledged what she described as “clear improvements in port processes, communication channels and the ease of resolving trade-related enquiries.”

She added that many American companies operating in Nigeria have reported improved clarity in Customs procedures over the past year.
According to her,
“Predictability and transparency are essential for businesses. We are encouraged by the modernisation steps taken under the legal framework of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, and we look forward to deepening this partnership to address remaining concerns.”

Olele also appreciated the CGC for personally receiving the delegation, noting that his presence demonstrated the Service’s commitment to partnership.
She stressed that enhanced cooperation between Customs and the private sector will significantly strengthen Nigeria’s investment climate.

Both sides later agreed to hold quarterly engagement sessions to review progress, address emerging issues and keep communication channels open for American companies operating in the country.

Representatives from ExxonMobil, Chevron, Cisco, Mantrac, U.S. Embassy among other representatives participated in the meeting.

The attention of the Management of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has been drawn to media reports stating that the United States Coast Guard, in collaboration with the U.S. Navy, intercepted a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) SKIPPER with IMO Number 9304667, alleged to be Nigerian-owned and involved in crude oil theft and other transnational crimes.

According to a statement signed by the Deputy Director/Head, Public Relations, Mr. Osagie Edward, FNIPR “NIMASA wishes to put on record that the VLCC SKIPPER is not a Nigerian-flagged vessel, and its purported owners, Thomarose Global Ventures Limited, are not registered with NIMASA as a shipping company.

An analysis of the vessel’s movement, monitored through the Agency’s Command, Control, Communication, Computers and Intelligence (C4i) Centre, shows that the vessel was last sighted in Nigerian waters on 1st July 2024.

After departing Nigerian waters, the vessel continued on its international voyage pattern and was tracked operating in the Arabian Sea (Asia) and later in the Caribbean region, where the U.S. interdiction eventually took place.

Records indicate that SKIPPER which was formerly owned by Triton Navigation Corp, has undergone multiple name changes over time.

The Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to collaborate with all relevant stakeholders, including U.S. authorities, in the ongoing investigations. He emphasized that criminality will not be tolerated in Nigerian waters.

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, has approved the appointment of Deputy Comptroller Abubakar Lucky Aliyu as the new National Coordinator of the Operation Whirlwind Team.

Aliyu succeeds Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) I.K. Oladeji, who has been redeployed to the Enforcement, Inspection and Investigation (E, I & I) Department at the NCS Headquarters.

Until his recent appointment, Aliyu served as Deputy National Coordinator of Operation Whirlwind, a role in which he distinguished himself through strategic leadership and operational effectiveness. Widely regarded as an expert in counter-terrorism and insurgency, his professional experience spans academics, customs enforcement, intelligence operations, and public administration.

The announcement coincided with Aliyu’s investiture as a Professor of Practice by Omniversity Imperial College, headquartered in Missouri, United States of America, during a well-attended ceremony held in Lagos.

In his acceptance and defence of the professorial award, Aliyu reflected on the root causes of smuggling, terrorism, and insurgency, particularly within developing societies. He identified the abuse and trafficking of illicit drugs as a major catalyst fueling criminality, youth involvement in smuggling, and the escalation of insecurity.

According to him, meaningful engagement of citizens—especially young people—through productive and lawful means remains critical to addressing social vices and strengthening national security. He further attributed insecurity to the preference for illegal and quick financial gains over legitimate livelihoods.

Describing smuggling as a grave threat to national development, Aliyu warned that it undermines local industries, weakens economic growth, and enriches foreign economies at the expense of Nigeria. He reaffirmed his commitment, in line with his oath as a Customs officer, to intensify efforts aimed at reducing smuggling to the barest minimum.

He stressed that effective border control and anti-smuggling operations would not only safeguard local production but also position the country to earn much-needed foreign exchange and achieve sustainable economic advancement.

Speaking on behalf of the institution, the management of Omniversity Imperial College explained that the Professor of Practice award is designed to promote the application of knowledge, encouraging graduates to translate academic learning into practical solutions.

The President of Omniversity in Lagos, Prof. Akersdolu-Ale, lamented what he described as the growing disconnect between theory and practice in higher education. He noted that it was increasingly embarrassing to find individuals bearing professorial titles in engineering disciplines who lacked the practical competence to handle basic technical tasks.

“We had to pause and ask ourselves how quality should truly be measured. Practice is the missing link,” he stated.

Former Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dakuku Peterside, supported the institution’s stance, advocating for a comprehensive review of academic curricula to align with modern realities.

He likened outdated educational methods to using World War I equipment to fight contemporary warfare, emphasizing the need for adaptive, skills-driven education.

Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Ibidapo-Obe, representing the Lagos State Commissioner for Education, highlighted the Ministry’s strategic plan focused on educational reform and economic transformation.

All speakers at the investiture ceremony unanimously called for the adoption of practice-based education models and structured recognition of professional skills as a pathway to national development.

The event also featured the induction of several fellows into the institution, including Dr. Dakuku Peterside, further underscoring the college’s commitment to bridging the gap between academia and real-world practice.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday, 11 December 2025, paid a courtesy visit to the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, at his palace in Lagos.

During the visit, the COAS expressed profound appreciation to the revered monarch and the council of Obas for their consistent support to the Nigerian Army. He noted that the purpose of his visit was not only to extend his gratitude but also to seek the blessings of the royal father, stressing that Nigeria’s customs and traditions remain sacrosanct and must always be honoured.

General Shaibu lauded Oba Akiolu for the fatherly role he has continually played in supporting Army formations and institutions across Lagos State. He described the Oba’s guidance and goodwill as invaluable to the Army’s operational and civil–military cooperation efforts.

In his response, the Oba of Lagos commended the Nigerian Army for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation and maintaining peace. He described the Army as a critical pillar upon which the Nigerian State stands, adding that the sacrifices and professionalism of its personnel have contributed significantly to national stability.

Oba Akiolu also applauded the COAS for his steadfast leadership and dedication to ensuring a peaceful and secure country. He thereafter offered special prayers for sustained peace in Nigeria and for Lieutenant General Shaibu’s successful tenure as the 25th Chief of Army Staff.

The visit underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to strengthening relationships with traditional institutions as vital stakeholders in the nation’s peace and security architecture.

The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has applauded the dedication, courage and sacrifice of retiring personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria as 576 participants graduated from the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) Course 2/2025. He was represented by the Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha, at the Passing Out Ceremony held on Friday, 12 December 2025.

Delivering the CNS’s goodwill message, Rear Admiral Mustapha said it was “a moment of pride, joy and reflection,” as the nation honoured men and women who had devoted over three decades to defending Nigeria’s peace, unity and territorial integrity.

He described the ceremony as more than a routine event, but a tribute to the resilience and professionalism of personnel who served in war and peace, counter-insurgency operations, peacekeeping missions and humanitarian assignments at home and abroad.

“You stood firm in the face of danger and uncertainty, and your contributions to national security remain indelible,” he stated.

The CNS urged the retirees to apply the vocational, entrepreneurial and management training received at NAFRC as they transition to civilian life, noting that financial prudence, discipline and adaptability would be crucial to their success after service.

He advised them to remain role models in their communities and support security initiatives in collaboration with law-enforcement agencies, while upholding the honour and integrity synonymous with the Nigerian military.

Vice Admiral Abbas expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to personnel welfare and post-service reintegration support. He also commended the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd), and the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, OFR, for their leadership.

He further lauded the Commandant of NAFRC and the entire staff for sustaining high training standards and continuously improving the Centre’s entrepreneurship and vocational programmes.

Earlier, in his welcome remarks, the Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal Bashir Rimi Mamman, described the event as a landmark moment that celebrates the resilience, commitment and achievements of the graduating participants.

He noted that NAFRC has, since inception, trained over 54,000 personnel from the Armed Forces, paramilitary agencies and allied nations, reinforcing its reputation as a Centre of Excellence in vocational and entrepreneurial development.

AVM Mamman outlined major reforms undertaken under his leadership, including: Renovation of the Headquarters Complex Reception, Corporal and Below Quarters, SNCO Quarters, Resource Centre and participant accommodations; Construction of seat-outs and installation of solar streetlights; Upgrade of the Lt Gen TA Lagbaja Block and Charity Gate Quarter Guard; Procurement of operational vehicles; Completion of a new administrative block for NAFRCOWA, scheduled for commissioning during the ceremony.

He also highlighted enhanced Research and Development efforts and the introduction of quarterly entrepreneurship and management training for mid-level and senior officers. A total of 39 officers and two civilian staff recently completed the EMPRETEC programme.

In partnership with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), NAFRC introduced lectures on business registration to help participants appreciate the legal, financial and branding benefits of formalised ventures.

Despite funding constraints, the Centre expanded its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives, offering vocational training to youths, widows and orphans of deceased personnel. Additionally, its 30-hectare agricultural land in Epe is being developed in collaboration with the Lagos State Government to strengthen training in agriculture, waste management and renewable energy.

AVM Mamman thanked President Tinubu for approving increments in starter packs and supporting the upgrade of digital infrastructure and industrial workshops.

Also speaking, the Deputy Director of Training, Navy Captain Jennifer Oklobia, presented the highlights of Pre-Discharge Course 2/2025, noting that the programme began on 6 January 2025 with 629 participants.

One participant, she said, passed away due to ill health, while 52 were medically unfit and returned to their units but will receive Certificates of Exemption. A total of 576 retirees met all requirements to be awarded the NAFRC Pre-Discharge Certificate. “The composition of the graduating cohort reflects a broad representation of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. A total of 576 personnel successfully completed the rigorous Pre-Discharge Course 2/2025, distributed as follows: Nigerian Army – 366 personnel
The Army formed the largest contingent, comprising senior non-commissioned officers and other ranks transitioning after decades of dedicated service; Nigerian Navy – 90 personnel
The Navy’s representation included Master Warrant Officers, Warrant Officers and ratings who have distinguished themselves across various operational commands; Nigerian Air Force – 120 personnel
The Air Force cohort featured seasoned airmen and women who have contributed significantly to air operations, logistics and technical support roles.

This diverse tri-service participation underscores the Armed Forces’ unified commitment to ensuring that retiring personnel receive robust training and support as they prepare for reintegration into civilian life. She also acknowledged 26 female participants, 17 from the Navy and 9 from the Air Force.

Captain Oklobia said the six-month training covered 33 entrepreneurship and vocational trades including automobile mechanics, welding, fabrication, cosmetics, and household product manufacturing. Participants also underwent written and practical assessments and an eight-week industrial attachment across government farms, agencies and private organisations nationwide.

The ceremony ended with goodwill messages, presentation of certificates and words of encouragement from the leadership of the Armed Forces.

The CNS congratulated the graduates and urged them to remain steadfast, disciplined and patriotic as they embark on a new phase of life.

“Retirement is not the end of service,” he said. “It is a new beginning one filled with opportunities to lead, inspire and contribute to national development.”

MILO Nigeria has welcomed a new group of influencers to strengthen its long-standing connection with consumers in Northern Nigeria. In a press release endorsed by Lois Nweke, the Corporate Affairs Specialist for Nestlé Nigeria, the company confirmed that the influencers include Ahmed Musa, Nigerian professional footballer and youth role model; Mansurah Isah, actress, filmmaker, humanitarian and social impact advocate; Ali Jita, songwriter and musician; Sulaiman Yahaya (popularly known as Bosho), Kannywood actor and comedian Anita Asuoha (Real Warri Pikin), who has renewed her contract as a member of the MILO family.

Speaking on the new partnerships, Gilbert Tweneboah-Koduah, Category Manager, Beverages, Nestlé Nigeria, emphasized the brand’s commitment to inclusivity.

“This partnership reflects our dedication to ensuring that every Nigerian child experiences the nourishment, energy and possibilities that MILO represents. By working with creators who authentically reflect their communities and whose values align with ours, we are celebrating the bonds MILO has built with families across Nigeria in the most inclusive and meaningful way.”

During their induction, the influencers went on an immersive factory tour to get first hand information on MILO’s key ingredients, including cocoa, milk, and sorghum, which is 100% sourced in Northern Nigeria. , They had the opportunity to see how these ingredients are transformed into the final product through cocoa roasting, milk blending, and malt preparation. Their reports confirmed that the visit highlighted MILO’s dedication to quality, nutrition, hygiene and food-safety standards.

Reflecting on the experience, Mansurah Isah said: “Seeing how MILO is made gave me a new level of respect for the brand. I was particularly impressed by the level of hygiene maintained throughout the process. The thoroughness, the quality checks at every stage were remarkable. It made me even prouder to take this journey with MILO.”

The signing ceremony took place at the Nestlé Head Office in iIlupeju, Lagos, where the influencers engaged with employees and shared their personal reflections on joining the MILO family.

Ahmed Musa spoke about his excitement, highlighting MILO’s significant impact in communities across Northern Nigeria. “What stands out for me is how MILO invests in young people. From sports to school activities, you see the brand’s impact everywhere. I’m excited to use my platform to inspire even more children across the North,” he said.

For Sulaiman Yahaya (Bosho), the opportunity to partner with a brand that consistently supports youth development was a key motivator. “MILO has been part of our lives for years. To now be part of this journey is something special,” he shared.

From the MILO Basketball Championship to Building Champs and other school-driven programs, MILO continues to nourish children, support communities, and inspire a generation to grow stronger through active and healthy living.

Our purpose is to unlock the power of food to enhance quality of life for everyone today and for generations to come. For over 62 years of its operation in Nigeria, Nestlé has delighted consumers around Nigeria by consistently delivering high quality nutritious food and beverages under its iconic brands: MAGGI, MILO, GOLDEN MORN, NESTLÉ PURELIFE, CERELAC, NESCAFÉ and NIDO.

With 3 manufacturing sites, 7 branch offices and a head office located in Lagos, Nestlé Nigeria is a force for good, helping to improve the wellbeing and livelihood of individuals and families to build thriving communities while taking action to protect the planet.

Barely 5 days after the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) uncovered 25.5kg cocaine in a Brazilian flagged vessel, both agencies have seized Canadian Loud, an expensive strain of cannabis concealed inside an imported vehicles.

In a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Isah Sulaiman “Following credible intelligence provided by the NDLEA, both agencies uncovered total of 2,374 packages of cannabis concealed in 55 bags hidden inside a 1x20ft container with No FCIU 6369526 laden with two vehicles. Total weight of the illicit drug is 1,187kg

Both agencies, in the course of joint examination, discovered the seizure which has been taken into the custody of the NDLEA. A breakdown of the drugs indicates that they were packed in 500 grams per sachet

Speaking on the seizure, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, commended the robust synergy between the NCS and NDLEA while reiterating the service zero tolerance for smuggling.

“Few days ago, I stated that no consignment will exit our control from this port without due check. Our synergy as agencies of government will always put us ahead of criminal elements.

“No matter the volume of trade we are processing, we will never sacrifice national security and economy for any form of trade. While we are focused on collecting maximum revenue for government, our eagle eyed officers are activated to be alert at all times.

“Let me warn, once again for the umpteenth time, any trader- importer, exporter, freight forwarder or licensed customs agent that dares our resolve this Yuletide season and beyond ,will face the full wrath of the law. Investigations are ongoing on this seizure and we shall bring the perpetrators to book” Comptroller Oshoba said.

Sterling Bank Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) of Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) to certify graduates of its Non-Oil Export Academy.

This strategic partnership underscores the Bank’s commitment to diversifying Nigeria’s economy by supporting non-oil export growth. This landmark agreement follows the recent launch of the Sterling Bank Non-Oil Export Academy, designed to position Nigerian exporters for global competitiveness.

The launch was preceded by a series of nationwide training programs in Lagos, Ondo, and Kano states, culminating in a grand finale themed “Excel in Non-Oil Export.”

The initiative aims to equip exporters with practical tools to thrive in international markets, thereby reducing Nigeria’s reliance on oil revenues.

Speaking at the signing ceremony in Lagos, Sterling Bank’s Managing Director and CEO, Mr. Abubakar Suleiman, affirmed that the Bank is intentional about creating an ecosystem where non-oil exporters are well-informed and equipped to advance national interests.

“We are not just training people to understand how to export; we want to train them to be competitive exporters of non-oil products,” Suleiman said.

“Our goal is to build a community of knowledgeable, certified, and confident exporters who can collaborate to solve challenges beyond their immediate capacity. Our North Star is to reach a point where hundreds of people have completed this programme and are ready to compete on a global scale.”

Dr. Nneka Okekearu, Director of the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. “Having spent the last twenty-three years deepening the competencies of entrepreneurs, we thoroughly understand what is needed and are excited to be part of this initiative,” she noted.

Dr. Okekearu emphasized that the export market has been neglected for too long. “With the right structure, standards, and mindset in place, entrepreneurs passing through this programme will help create not only a better Nigeria but more sustainable communities,” she added, noting that she looks forward to the case studies that will emerge from the programme’s participants.

Beyond sectoral outcomes, the initiative reinforces Sterling Bank’s commitment to support the development of human capital that positively shapes and impacts the wider economy. The Academy will run four cohorts within the year, commencing in 2026.

With this partnership, Sterling Bank and the Enterprise Development Centre are laying the foundation for a new generation of globally competitive Nigerian exporters, professionals equipped not only with knowledge, but with the certification, confidence, and networks needed to scale.

As both institutions align their expertise to strengthen non-oil export capacity, this collaboration signals a bold step toward a more resilient, inclusive, and diversified economy.

The Non-Oil Export Academy therefore serves as a catalyst for national transformation, empowering businesses and communities to unlock Nigeria’s full potential on the world stage.

Sterling Bank Limited is a full-service national commercial bank in Nigeria and a member of Sterling Financial Holdings Group. With a heritage of more than 60 years, the bank has evolved from Nigeria’s pre-eminent investment banking institution to a trusted provider of retail, commercial, and corporate banking services.
Sterling is a forward-thinking financial institution committed to transforming lives through innovative solutions, exceptional service, unwavering integrity, and a steadfast focus on its HEART strategy, which centers on Health, Education, Agriculture, Renewable Energy, and Transportation. As pioneers in digital banking and financial inclusion, Sterling continues to lead by example, showing how purpose-driven leadership can deliver transformative outcomes for individuals, businesses, and society at large. Guided by a culture of innovation and a passion for excellence, Sterling Bank remains dedicated to redefining the banking experience for millions of customers across Nigeria.

This Detty December, Lagos will witness a cultural milestone, the unveiling of the first-ever 30-foot Christmas tree made entirely from Nigerian fabrics, a groundbreaking installation designed to celebrate sustainability, unity, fashion, and community spirit happening on Christmas Eve, the 24th December at the J. Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Onikan Lagos Island.

Spearheaded by Culture Influencer, Media Personality and Fashion Entrepreneur, Ebunoluwa “ebbiekikz” Dosumu, the founder of Trybe, the tree is made from hundreds of donated fabrics Aso-oke, Ankara, Adire, George, lace and more crowd sourced from families across the country each piece carrying its own memory, its own tribe, and making it a community project at its core.

Together, they form a towering masterpiece that reinforce a simple truth: fashion is one of the strongest threads that bind Nigerians together.

Attendees of A Shakara Christmas will be immersed in a day designed to spotlight the richness, beauty, and diversity of Nigerian culture. Highlights include an Interactive Stage Play, described as the first of its kind in Lagos, and a Cultural Fashion Runway by Shakara Trybe, a runway showcase featuring original Nigerian cultural pieces.

There will also be nostalgic experiences and festive characters, including throwbacks to the joys of growing up in Nigeria, traditional games, festive icons, and elements that evoke deep cultural nostalgia.

The event will further offer an Indigenous Food Tasting Experience, a curated tasting session of Nigerian dishes across tribes celebrating the nation’s culinary diversity and the flavours that connect communities.

Cultural spotlights and immersive installations will also be featured, with creative displays capturing the stories, traditions, and artistry that define Nigeria’s cultural landscape.

The night will close with a heartwarming moment led by Loud Urban choir in a communal carol session beneath the illuminated 30-foot fabric tree symbolizing togetherness, hope, and the spirit of a united Nigeria.

A Shakara Christmas marks the beginning of Ariya Village, a vibrant 13-day cultural festival dedicated to showcasing tradition, fashion, food, storytelling, community living, indigenous craftsmanship, and Nigerian creativity.

A Shakara Christmas is designed for Nigerians at home and abroad seeking meaningful, family-friendly, culturally rooted Detty December experiences.

For Nigerians and the diaspora searching for Detty December events in Lagos, family-friendly Christmas activities, cultural festivals in Nigeria, Nigerian Christmas experiences, sustainable fashion installations, heritage-driven creative events, end-of-year Lagos celebrations, and diaspora-friendly Nigerian cultural events.