Category: News

  • HOUSE OF REPS PLEGDES SUPPORT FOR TINCAN AS ₦347 BILLION IS POSTED IN Q1

    HOUSE OF REPS PLEGDES SUPPORT FOR TINCAN AS ₦347 BILLION IS POSTED IN Q1

    The Tincan Island Port Command is pleased to report on its outstanding performance for the period covering January to March 2025. During this period, the Command has demonstrated exceptional growth, operational efficiency, and a continued commitment to safeguarding national interests.

    In a statement issued by the Customs Area Controller Frank Onyeka during the visit of the House of Representative Committee on Customs and Excise to the Command, Onyeka disclosed that the Command generated a total sum of ₦347,935,672.475.5 billion in the first quarter of 2025, marking a significant improvement compared to the same period in 2024, which saw a revenue collection of ₦303,791,379,473.67 billion. According to the Controller, the difference of ₦44,144,293,001.87 billion highlighted the remarkable growth and the effectiveness of the Command’s revenue generation strategies, reinforcing her commitment to driving economic development through improved operations and propelling a zero tolerance for revenue leakages. The Controller also noted that the revenue generated had an increase of approximately 14.54% compared to the same period in 2024.

    The first quarter collection also represents 91.2% of the total revenue target expected in the first quarter of 2025 which was given as N381,167,499,867.64 as well as 22.81% of the annual revenue target of N1,524,699,999,478.52.

    Speaking on the seizures recorded in the Command for the first quarter, Comptroller Onyeka informed the law makers that the Command recently handover of illicit drugs to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) which included a combined total of 1,863 packets of Cannabis Indica, weighing 931.25 kilograms, and 97 packets of Crystal Methamphetamine, all discovered in 2x20ft containers with a total street value of over ₦8,053,125,000.00

    According to the Area Controller, these achievements underscore the Command’s dedication to combating illegal activities and ensuring that national security is upheld.

    With regards to stakeholders’ engagement, Comptroller Onyeka disclosed that Tincan maintains an excellent working relationship with cross sections of critical stakeholders, ranging from Customs Licensed Agents, Shipping companies executives, the Armed Forces and Para-Military agencies, as well as civil society organizations. He revealed that these collaborative efforts have played a crucial role in enhancing operational efficiency, security, and the overall safety of the Port. Continuing, he said that these regular meetings, joint operations, and knowledge-sharing initiatives have further strengthened our collective ability to address security concerns and boost trade facilitation.

    In the area of Capacity building, the Area Controller said the Command has recognized the importance of continuous professional development for her officers and men. He added that as part of our commitment to fostering a highly skilled and ethical workforce, the Command had organized a series of training programs in the first quarter with key topics such as integrity, emotional intelligence in the workplace, and effective inspection and clearance classification procedures. These training initiatives have empowered our officers with the necessary tools to perform their duties with the utmost professionalism, ensuring that the Port operates seamlessly and in full compliance with international standards, he said.

    In light of the successes of the first quarter, the Controller offered a firm assurance that the Command will step up its administrative and operational capacity in the upcoming quarters of 2025. The Command is fully committed to ensuring the maximum collection of revenue for the government, effectively addressing any revenue leakages, and continuing to optimize its processes. Furthermore, the Command will continue to engage proactively with stakeholders, working collaboratively to enhance the revenue profile of the Port and ensure that it plays a vital role in supporting national economic objectives.

    Comptroller Onyeka appreciated the members of the Committee for their visit, and noted that it was a testament to their commitment to National Development. He also praised the continued support of the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR psc (+) and his management team, as well as the critical stakeholders for their commitment to fostering a secure, efficient, and profitable operational environment at Tincan Island Port.

    In his response, the Chairman of the Committee Rt. Honourable Leke Abejide applauded the Command for manifesting professionalism in the revenue collection and assured them of the continued support and corporation of the Committee. He noted that the Committee has visited the Command over Six times in the last Eight, and was quite impressed with the revenue profile of the Command.

    He noted that the Committee is working assiduously to ensure that any bill relating to the Nigeria Customs Service presented before the green chamber is granted speedy hearing. He commended the CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR for the ground breaking achievements recorded since his assumption in office.

  • Nigeria Customs Service Declares B’Odogwu A Huge Successs With ₦189.5b Revenue, Achieves ₦5.6b Daily Collection

    Nigeria Customs Service Declares B’Odogwu A Huge Successs With ₦189.5b Revenue, Achieves ₦5.6b Daily Collection

    The Ports Terminal Multiservices Limited PTML) Command of Nigeria Customs Service has declared a collection of ₦189,516,818,316.92k from November 2024 to mid April 2025 using the Unified Customs Management System also known as B’Odogwu.

    Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Tenny Mankini Daniyan who said this at the first quarter briefing with senior officers and sectional heads, described the platform as a top notch technology defying it’s initial teething challenges to become a part of the service success in revenue collection and trade facilitation.

    According to SC Abdullahi Tsafe Abubakar, Customs Public Relations Officer, PTML command also made history on April 14, 2025 when it collected ₦5,612,887,374.99 which stands out as the highest daily collection ever made in its over two decades history.

    Comptroller Daniyan who attributed the successes of the command to the visionary and focused leadership of Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, said the 2025 first quarter collection indicates the sustained positive trajectory championed by the management of the service.

    From January to March 2025,the command collected ₦90,204,703,451.72 which is 38.8% higher than the ₦66,920,181,586.30 collected same period of 2024.

    According to the CAC, the success of the B’Odogwu application in PTML being the pilot phase area, is responsible for the CGC’s approval of it’s simultaneous spread and full deployment across various commands.

    On trade facilitation, he said “The command holds the number one record of fastest cargo clearance time of two hours for compliant RoRo consignments and we are committed to improving on this by making the time shorter.

    “In addition to Europe vessels coming to PTML, the port is now receiving ships from China to expand the frontiers of trade and prospect of higher revenue from increased economic activities.

    “Working in line with Time Release Study (TRS) for faster cargo clearance, we are urging all our port users to make sincere declaration and stay compliant as those are the bedrock to enjoy more benefits in trade. Anyone who fails to make sincere declaration forfeits the benefits of faster clearance ” he said.

    He reiterated the command’s uncompromising disposition towards smuggling either as concealment, under declaration , under valuation and outright false declaration disclosing that our officers are trained and prepared to detect such infractions for seizure and possible arrest of persons suspected to be behind such acts.

    The CAC also said the command is ready for higher volume of trade including the handling of imported pharmaceutical products which was recently approved by the management of the service.

  • NCS Apapa Command Collects ₦694.1b, Gets Reps’ Commendation for Efficiency

    NCS Apapa Command Collects ₦694.1b, Gets Reps’ Commendation for Efficiency

    … As Compt. Olomu Assures of Higher Revenue With B’Odogwu

    The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded a staggering ₦694.1 billion in revenue for the first quarter of 2025, setting a new benchmark in the Service’s 135-year history. The figure represents a remarkable 41.8% increase from the ₦489 billion collected in the same period in 2024.

    Disclosing this during a working visit by the House of Representatives Committee on Customs, the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, attributed the Command’s success to the strategic leadership of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.

    “Under the guidance and effective supervision of the CGC, we are optimistic about surpassing last year’s total collection of ₦2.357 trillion,” Olomu stated.

    In a major milestone, the Apapa Command set a new record for the highest daily revenue collection with ₦18.9 billion generated on Friday, March 14, 2025—surpassing the previous record of ₦18.2 billion set in October 2024. Olomu described the achievement as historic and a testament to the Command’s operational efficiency.

    He emphasized the vital role of the Apapa Command in Nigeria’s economy, describing it as the country’s most significant trade gateway with the capacity to handle the highest volume of imports and exports in both West and Central Africa.

    Highlighting efforts to improve the ease of doing business, Olomu noted that the Command has leveraged digital innovations, particularly the B’Odogwu platform, which he said is gaining rapid acceptance among stakeholders and contributing immensely to trade facilitation.

    He also reported a major breakthrough in the automation of export processes, with the Apapa Command processing exports under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Guided Trade Initiative (GTI). He revealed that some Nigerian exporters have now been elevated to the status of Authorised Economic Operators (AEO), enhancing their credibility and access to global markets.

    The Area Controller further announced that the Command recently issued its first Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) under the B’Odogwu platform, calling it a significant milestone in the journey toward a fully indigenized, ICT-driven customs system.

    Chairman of the House Committee on Customs, Hon. Leke Abejide, commended Comptroller Olomu for his leadership and innovation, describing the Apapa Command as a model of productivity. He assured the CAC of the lawmakers’ continued legislative support, particularly in promoting trade facilitation through technology and global best practices.

    “We are impressed by the Command’s performance and your ability to think ahead in revenue generation and trade facilitation,” Hon. Abejide remarked.

    With the first quarter figures indicating strong momentum, Comptroller Olomu expressed confidence in the Command’s capacity to deliver even greater results in the months ahead.

  • AVM Mamman: NAFRC Commandant Partners Mrs. Onari Duke To Empower Officers With Entrepreneurial, Managerial Skills

    AVM Mamman: NAFRC Commandant Partners Mrs. Onari Duke To Empower Officers With Entrepreneurial, Managerial Skills


    In a renewed drive to empower officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces with vital post-service life skills, the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) on Monday inaugurated the 14th edition of the Middle and Senior-Level Officers’ Entrepreneurship and Management Course. The programme, held in collaboration with EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation, marks the second of four sessions scheduled for the year 2025.

    Addressing participants at the official opening ceremony, Commandant of NAFRC, Air Vice Marshal BR Mamman, expressed confidence in the transformative potential of the course. He emphasized that while the training is not a pre-retirement programme, it is critical in preparing officers for the realities of post-service life.

    “This Course will equip you with the skills, mindset, and resilience needed to navigate the dynamic world of business and leadership,” AVM Mamman stated. “It aligns with our mandate to provide quality training that adequately prepares personnel for reintegration into civilian life.”

    AVM Mamman disclosed that the Centre has so far trained over 47,000 personnel from the Senior Non-Commissioned and Non-Commissioned Officers cadre, many of whom now successfully run small and medium-scale businesses across Nigeria. He added that over 200 senior officers have benefited from this course since its inception, a number expected to grow significantly in 2025 with its quarterly rollout.

    He further noted that the training covers core areas such as entrepreneurship, agriculture, business law, human resource management, and marketing. In his words, “Success in entrepreneurship is not just about a great idea, but about strategic planning, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to hard work.”

    In her keynote address, Mrs. Onari Duke, Country Director of EMPRETEC Nigeria Foundation, lauded the Defence Headquarters and NAFRC leadership for their unwavering commitment to officer development. She said the collaboration reflects a national need to shift focus from traditional employment to entrepreneurship in addressing economic challenges.

    “NAFRC’s commitment to capacity building is critical in today’s entrepreneurial landscape,” she said. “This course will empower senior and mid-level officers with the skills required to succeed as entrepreneurs and managers in their post-service journeys.”

    Mrs. Duke highlighted the comprehensive curriculum for the training, which includes practical sessions, workshops, and visits to successful enterprises like Spectra Industries, Calaway Farms, Commint Buka, and Songhai Farm in Port Novo. She emphasized that the training represents a vital mindset shift for officers who have long devoted their lives to service, offering them a rare opportunity to invest in personal growth and future impact.

    Courses for senior officers include *21st Century Leadership Challenge*, *Strategic Thinking for Profitability*, *Financial Modelling and Budget Forecasting*, *Project Management*, *Conflict Resolution*, and *Corporate Governance*. Meanwhile, mid-level officers are receiving instruction in *Emotional Mastery*, *Inventory Management*, *Health and Wellness*, *Business Expansion*, and *Product Specification*.

    The Commandant officially inaugurated the course and charged participants to fully embrace the opportunity to plan, strategize, and begin building their entrepreneurial future while still in service.

    The event concluded with appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, for his support and foresight, and to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his enduring leadership and commitment to the welfare of military personnel.

    The initiative reinforces NAFRC’s vision of preparing service personnel for a seamless transition into impactful civilian life through entrepreneurship, innovation, and enterprise development.

  • Avon Medical Launches State-Of-The-Art Facility In Lagos

    Avon Medical Launches State-Of-The-Art Facility In Lagos

    In a landmark moment for Nigeria’s healthcare sector, Avon Medical, a subsidiary of Heirs Holdings, formally unveiled its ultramodern medical facility in Lagos on Monday. The launch event brought together government dignitaries, healthcare professionals, industry leaders, and members of the press to witness what many described as a game-changing milestone in the private health sector.

    The Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who officially commissioned the facility, lauded Avon Medical for its continued commitment to improving access to quality healthcare in Nigeria. He described the newly opened 50-bed facility as “a bold statement of what is possible when vision meets investment and commitment.”

    “This is not just another building—it is a symbol of what we can achieve when the private sector takes initiative in solving real human problems. Healthcare delivery cannot rest solely on the shoulders of the government. What Avon Medical has done here is admirable and commendable,” the governor said.

    The event also featured Dr Awele Elumelu, OFR, Chairperson of Avon Medical Practice, who delivered an emotional keynote, tracing the organisation’s journey from a single-site clinic in 2009 to a full-service hospital with a Dialysis Centre, Diagnostics Unit, Maternity and Paediatrics Wards, and several workplace clinics across the country.

    “This is a particularly emotional moment for us at Avon Medical,” Dr Elumelu said. “It is a moment of pride and deep fulfilment. We started this journey 16 years ago with a simple but powerful belief: that world-class healthcare should not be reserved for the wealthy or privileged few. It should be accessible and affordable for everyone.”

    She reflected on the challenges that initially inspired the founding of Avon Medical and Avon HMO—the lack of modern equipment, overstretched medical professionals, and the inability of many Nigerians to access timely, quality medical care.

    “We could not look away. So, we decided to do something about it,” she said. “We built Avon Medical to deliver excellent care, and Avon HMO to make that care financially accessible. That combination was deliberate—because access without affordability is no access at all.”

    Governor Sanwo-Olu echoed her sentiments, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to partnering with visionary organisations that share the goal of strengthening Lagos’ health infrastructure. He cited recent achievements such as the construction of five Mother and Child hospitals across the state, the upcoming Mercy Children’s Hospital, and the 1,000-bed Mental Health Institute in Ketu-Ejirin—set to be the largest of its kind in Sub-Saharan Africa.

    “We have prioritised healthcare in our budgeting. Between 8 to 10 per cent of our state budget annually goes to health, because we know that a healthy population is the bedrock of a thriving economy,” the governor noted.

    Dr Elumelu went further to situate Avon Medical’s vision within the broader philosophy of Africapitalism, the development framework championed by the Heirs Holdings Group and her husband, Mr Tony Elumelu, CFR. “We believe that the private sector must play a central role in solving the continent’s most pressing problems. We’re not just here to generate profit. We are here to create lasting impact.”

    The statistics she presented were stark: Africa accounts for over 20% of the global disease burden, but has access to only 1% of the world’s healthcare resources. Nearly half of Africans lack access to quality healthcare, and only 3% of global health workers serve the continent. Nigeria, in particular, continues to struggle with limited availability of doctors, hospital beds, and modern medical technology—pressures exacerbated by the brain drain of healthcare professionals.

    “These are not just numbers. They are stories. They are lives. Far too often, they are the lives of women and children,” she stressed. “This facility means more women will receive the maternal care they need. More children will get life-saving diagnoses. More families will have access to the care they deserve.”

    The facility, located in Lagos, will serve as a hub for Avon Medical’s growing network. It is a tangible expression of their vision to build a healthcare system that leaves no one behind.

    Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the investment as “patient capital”—the kind that recognises long-term societal value over short-term returns. “We need more of this thinking—investors who are not just looking for what to take from the country, but what to give. We can’t solve our health challenges through public funding alone. We need the private sector to step up, and Avon Medical has done just that.”

    He also addressed the issue of medical tourism, lamenting that Nigeria loses over $2 billion annually to citizens seeking treatment abroad. “Let us reverse that trend. Let us build facilities we can trust. Let us create a system where our people, including our medical professionals, choose to stay—because they see hope, opportunity, and dignity at home.”

    Dr Elumelu concluded her remarks by acknowledging the dedication of the Avon Medical team and the support from public sector partners, especially the Lagos State Ministry of Health. “This day belongs to our teams—clinical and non-clinical—who show up every day, committed to our mission. We also thank our partners in government for creating the environment that makes this collaboration possible.”

    To the patients who will walk through the doors of the new facility, she gave a simple but powerful promise: “We are here because of you. Your health matters to us.”

    Also speaking, Chairman Heirs Holdings, Mr. Tony Elumelu acknowledged the support and assistance provided by both the Federal Government, the State Government, and the health institutions, noting their collective contributions to strengthening the healthcare system.
    “In particular, I must commend the Lagos State Governor for the truly outstanding support he has extended to the health sector. We all witnessed how the system held up during the COVID-19 pandemic—an indication of robust structures and proactive leadership.

    “At the helm of this response were dedicated officials, including the governor and Commissioner of Health, who gave us hope during a difficult time and have remained committed ever since. In fact, the governor just returned to the country yesterday to be here today—an act that speaks volumes.

    “I also want to thank His Excellency and the State Executive Council. Despite a scheduled meeting on Monday, he adjusted his plans to be physically present here. That level of commitment can only come from a governor who truly understands and values the critical role of healthcare.

    “Healthcare is not just about treating illness; it is foundational to creating wealth and driving sustainable progress. On behalf of all of us, I say thank you, Your Excellency.”

    With the official ribbon cut and the facility now operational, the launch marks a new chapter in the ongoing story of private sector-driven health innovation in Nigeria—one that places people, purpose, and progress at the heart of care.

    Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Avon Medical Practice, Dr Akinbiyi Gabriel Oke, shared details about the facility’s offerings and the healthcare provider’s mission to make world-class healthcare affordable and accessible for Nigerians.

    “This facility represents another bold step in our journey,” Dr Oke stated. “It combines clinical expertise with empathy and innovation to create a modern and welcoming space where access to high-quality medical care is not a privilege but a right.”

  • Maritime Reporter, Joshua Yousouph Bags Master’s Degree In Communication Studies

    Maritime Reporter, Joshua Yousouph Bags Master’s Degree In Communication Studies

    A distinguished maritime journalist and communications professional, Joshua Yousouph has added a significant milestone to his academic and professional journey by earning a Master of Science (MSc) Degree in Communication Studies from Lagos State University (LASU).

    Yousouph, who currently serves as a News Reporter with Shipping Position Daily—Nigeria’s first and only maritime daily newspaper, successfully balanced his rigorous full-time reporting job with the demands of a full-time postgraduate programme. He also doubles as an On-Air Personality on Shipping Position Live, a leading maritime radio programme airing thrice weekly on Star FM 101.5FM, Lagos.

    Yousouph’s academic journey began with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mass Communication from Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, which he earned in 2019. His passion for professionalism and excellence drove him to enroll for an academic Masters Degree in Communication Studies at the prestigious Lagos State University.

    A core highlight of his postgraduate journey was his MSc dissertation titled “Maritime Reportage in Some Selected Newspapers in Nigeria.” In this research work, Yousouph conducted a content analysis of three major national dailies, critically examining the volume, depth, and consistency of their maritime coverage. The study explored how these newspapers portray maritime issues and the implications for public awareness, sector development, and policy engagement. His research is considered a valuable contribution to the ongoing discourse on strengthening maritime communication and visibility in mainstream Nigerian media.

    In addition to Yousouph’s academic and professional accomplishments, Yousouph is a member of the Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria (MARAN) and sits on the Editorial Board of MARAN News, a bi-monthly tabloid publication dedicated to maritime sector issues. Over the years, he has served on various editorial boards, building a reputation for excellence in content curation, storytelling, and public interest journalism. He is also an Associate Member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), further cementing his professional standing in the communications field.

    Reflecting on his journey, Yousouph described the experience as a test of resilience and determination. “Combining a full-time career in maritime journalism with the academic demands of a full-time Master’s degree was not a walk in the park. There were long nights, tight deadlines, and countless sacrifices. But I’m incredibly grateful for how far I’ve come and the support system around me,” he said.

    Yousouph dedicates this achievement to his family, mentors, colleagues, and every aspiring journalist who continues to chase their dreams in the face of challenges. “This degree is not just a personal achievement, but a symbol of what is possible when passion, perseverance, and purpose align.” he noted.

  • NCS Hosts House Of Representatives Committee On Customs And Excise On Oversight Visit

    NCS Hosts House Of Representatives Committee On Customs And Excise On Oversight Visit

    The Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, on Monday, 7th April 2025, received the house of representatives committee on Customs and excise who were at the command for oversight visit, led by the Chairman, Right Honourable Leke Abejide. The visit is part of the National Assembly’s statutory oversight responsibilities as enshrined in Sections 88 and 89 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Welcoming the delegation, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Dr. Ben Oramalugo, PhD, expressed deep appreciation for the Committee’s presence, describing it as a strong demonstration of their commitment to enhancing Customs administration, trade facilitation, and national revenue optimization.

    According to CSC Isah Sulaiman, Public Relations Officer, Seme Area Command, the Comptroller Dr. Oramalugo highlighted the strategic importance of the Joint Border Post (JBP) along the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor, which serves as a vital hub for regional trade. He reiterated the Command’s dedication to embracing the JBP initiative, which fosters cooperation with the Republic of Benin, promotes intelligence sharing, and improves customs clearance through the one-stop border post model.

    Since assuming office on 11th February 2025, the Comptroller has focused on four key mandates: revenue generation, trade facilitation, anti-smuggling operations, and inter-agency collaboration. Under his leadership, the Command has recorded significant achievements including:

    *Revenue Generation*: The Command generated One Billion, Nine Hundred and Eighty-Six Million , Three Hundred and Ninety-Five Thousand, Five Hundred and Sixty-Five Naira and Eighty-Five Kobo (N1, 986,395,565.86k) in the first quarter of 2025 through improved compliance, risk management, and enforcement.

    *Trade Facilitation*: Export activities were notably boosted with over 96,000 metric tonnes of goods with a Free On Board value of Twenty Billion, Four hundred and Fifty-Four Million, Eight Hundred and Eighty-Eight Thousand, Four Hundred and Thirty-Two Naira and Eighty-Seven Kobo (N20, 454,888,432.87k) only, facilitated from January to March 2025.

    *Anti-Smuggling*: From January to March 2025, several seizures were made ranging from petroleum products, narcotics, foreign rice, poultry, vehicles, foreign parboiled rice and more with Duty Paid Value (DPV) of Eight Hundred and Fifty-Five Million, Seven Hundred Thousand, Five Hundred and Twenty-Four Naira (N855,700,524.00k) only.

    Comptroller Dr. Oramalugo, however, outlined several operational challenges faced by the Command, including poor infrastructure, shortage of personnel and equipment, lack of power supply for over Seven (7) years in the entire Seme axis, and ocean encroachment. He called for urgent government intervention, especially in technology deployment, environmental protection, and enforcement of contractual obligations on stalled projects.

    Responding, the Chairman of the House Committee on Customs, Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide, reaffirmed the Committee’s resolve to critically assess the operations, revenue performance and capital projects in line with the 2023 and 2024 budgetary approvals.

    “We are here to check your books, operations, and ongoing projects to ensure alignment with appropriated funds and to determine areas for retention or removal in the 2025 budget,” Hon. Abejide stated.

    He emphasized the need for the Command to provide data on revenue performance in relation to targets, impact of E-Customs and digital platforms and efforts made in suppressing smuggling and promoting Nigeria’s trade competitiveness.

    Furthermore, Hon. Abejide assured that the welfare of Customs officers is of equal priority, encouraging the Command to use the opportunity to present actionable needs for inclusion in the 2025 budget.

    The visit concluded with mutual assurances of continued collaboration in strengthening the Nigeria Customs Service as a key driver of economic development, regional integration, and national security.

  • Senator Orji Refutes Fraud Allegations, Demands Apology

    Senator Orji Refutes Fraud Allegations, Demands Apology

    Former Governor of Abia State, Senator Theodore Orji, has strongly condemned a recent publication that falsely accused him of fraudulent activities in connection with Effdee Nigeria Limited.

    In a statement from his liaison office, Senator Orji decried the report as a deliberate attempt to smear his hard-earned reputation.

    The publication, he said, was riddled with falsehoods, calling it “baseless” and “malicious,” and accused its authors of failing to conduct proper fact-checking.

    One of the glaring inaccuracies cited in the statement was the claim that Senator Orji served as Governor in 2016 and 2017—despite his tenure ending in May 2015.

    The statement also dismissed as false any associations between Senator Orji and Mr. Uchenna Erondu or Mr. Austin Akuma, emphasising that neither individual had any role in his administration.

    Senator Orji further denied any knowledge of, or connection to, Effdee Nigeria Limited – the company wrongly linked to him in the report.

    “This publication is not only false but also maliciously intended to damage Senator Orji’s hard-earned reputation. He is a man known for his integrity and dedication to public service,” the statement read.

    Consequently, Senator Orij demanding a full retraction of the story across all platforms where it was published, including major national newspapers and online outlets.

  • Fidelity Bank Distributes Food Packs to FCT Communities

    Fidelity Bank Distributes Food Packs to FCT Communities

    As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, recently donated food packs to Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja residents.

    Themed, the Fidelity Food Bank initiative, the outreach saw the bank’s officials distribute the food items to seven communities in the Mabushi district of the FCT.

    Speaking at the distribution event, the Executive Director, North, Fidelity Bank Plc, Mr. Sufiyanu Garba, emphasized the bank’s commitment to community development and its alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 2, which seeks to eradicate hunger.

    “This initiative stems from our deep-seated responsibility to support underserved communities and contribute to the fight against hunger in Nigeria,” said Mr. Garba. “At Fidelity Bank, we firmly believe that by addressing the root causes of poverty and hunger, we can make a meaningful impact on the lives of those in need. While we may not be able to solve all societal challenges, our contributions are making a difference, as evidenced by the positive feedback we continue to receive.”

    He further reiterated the bank’s commitment to empowering communities, stating, “We recognize the importance of fostering growth and prosperity within the communities where we operate. By investing in their well-being, we contribute to the creation of a more sustainable and equitable society.”

    The Fidelity Food Bank is one of the key pillars of the bank’s CSR strategy, focusing on health and social welfare. As a nationwide project, the initiative seeks to provide food relief to underserved communities across Nigeria, with a particular focus on supporting women and children.

    Expressing appreciation for the initiative, the District Head of Mabushi Community, Mr. Hassan Danagna, commended Fidelity Bank for its generosity and its impact on the community.

    “Fidelity Bank’s support to our community is unprecedented, and we are deeply grateful for this initiative, which provides relief to vulnerable households and less privileged families,” said Mr. Danagna. “Given the current economic challenges, this support is timely, particularly as we approach the holy month of Ramadan.”

    One of the beneficiaries, Mr. Mukhtar Mohamed, also expressed his gratitude to the bank, acknowledging the significant impact of food distribution.

    Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged commercial bank with over 9.1 million customers who are serviced across its 251 business offices and various digital banking channels in Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

    The Bank is the recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine. Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

  • IMPRESSIVE REVENUE: Tin Can Island Port Command Rakes Over ₦347 Billion in Q1 2025

    IMPRESSIVE REVENUE: Tin Can Island Port Command Rakes Over ₦347 Billion in Q1 2025

    The Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has set a new benchmark in revenue generation, raking in a total of ₦347.9 billion in the first quarter of 2025. This impressive figure represents a 12.6 percent increase compared to the ₦304 billion recorded in the same period in 2024.

    Comptroller Frank Okechukwu Onyeka, who assumed leadership of the command on December 20, 2024, disclosed the revenue figures during a media briefing at the command’s conference room. The new Customs Area Controller (CAC), widely described as charismatic and result-oriented, credited the success to the strategic implementation of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi’s policy of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation.

    Breakdown of the quarterly earnings reveals that the command generated ₦116.4 billion in January 2025, marking a 24.06 percent increase from ₦88.4 billion in January 2024. February saw revenue of ₦103.2 billion, a 2.9 percent rise from ₦100.3 billion recorded in the same month last year. The upward trend continued in March, with the command generating ₦128.2 billion—10.3 percent higher than the ₦115.1 billion collected in March 2024.

    While applauding the continued support of the Comptroller-General and the positive media coverage of the command’s activities, Comptroller Onyeka emphasized the importance of accurate declarations by stakeholders. He noted that honest documentation will ensure a more seamless operational environment and mutual benefits for all players in the port ecosystem.

    He further pledged to maintain robust engagement with stakeholders to drive improvements across the board in port operations.

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