Tuesday, 20 January 2026

Comptroller Matawale Emphasises Discipline, Integrity, Professionalism @ Kebbi Area Command 1st 2026 Parade

Comptroller Matawale Emphasises Discipline, Integrity, Professionalism @ Kebbi Area Command 1st 2026 Parade 

Bisi Akingbade 


The Kebbi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has convened its first parade of the 2026 operational year, bringing together officers and men of the Command in a ceremony that combined solemn remembrance, renewed commitment to national duty and a comprehensive health screening for all personnel.

Comptroller Ibrahim MM MNIM, fdc extended New Year wishes to officers and their families, and paid tribute to fallen colleagues who lost their lives in service, offering prayers for their souls and comfort for their families.

In his address, he  expressed deep appreciation to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, PhD, Chairperson of the World Customs Organization, WCO, Council, for his visionary leadership, unwavering support, and dedication to the welfare of officers across the nation.
He noted that the CGC’s commitment to professionalism, innovation, and discipline continues to inspire the Service to new heights of excellence.

Comptroller Matawalle emphasized that the parade was more than a routine gathering, it was a moment of reflection, recommitment, and renewed dedication to the Service’s core mandate; securing Nigeria’s borders, protecting the national economy, preventing smuggling and economic sabotage and facilitating legitimate trade and revenue generation. He urged all officers to embody loyalty, vigilance, and excellence in their duties.

He charged officers to uphold the 7Cs of the Nigeria Customs Service Courtesy without loss of dignity, Clear questions, Careful examination, Clean hands in all respects, Command attention, Control situations, and Consult colleagues. These principles, he stressed, are essential guides for conduct at border posts, in the field, and within the Command.

Discipline was highlighted as the bedrock of the Service. The CAC made clear that negligence or any betrayal of trust would not be tolerated while dedication, loyalty, and excellence would be recognized and rewarded. He reminded officers that each is an ambassador of the NCS, and their conduct reflects on the Service’s reputation in both public and private life.
The Command is located  on critical international borders with Niger and Benin Republics, Kebbi Area Command plays a frontline role in combating smuggling and illegal trade.
Comptroller Matawalle expressed concern over prevailing security challenges within the border corridors and charged officers to remain vigilant, proactive, and security-conscious at all times. He emphasized the need for improved intelligence gathering, strict adherence to operational procedures, and strengthened collaboration with sister security agencies, host communities, and other stakeholders to effectively tackle insecurity.

The Command also reaffirmed its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, CSR, initiatives, including the construction of boreholes and the supply and installation of solar-powered street lights in border communities. These efforts aim to foster goodwill, improve living conditions, and enhance security in the region.

As part of the parade, a comprehensive health check was carried out for all officers, underscoring the Command’s commitment to the well-being of its personnel. Recognizing that _health is wealth_, the leadership prioritized this exercise to ensure that every officer is physically fit, mentally alert, and prepared to perform their duties with maximum effectiveness.

Comptroller Ibrahim noted that a healthy force is a strong force, capable of safeguarding borders, combating smuggling, and facilitating trade with vigor and precision. The initiative reinforces the Service’s dedication to maintaining a resilient, disciplined, and high-performing team.

The Kebbi Area Command reaffirmed its commitment to discipline, professionalism, and the 7Cs, standing united as a frontline force protecting Nigeria’s borders and economy. By prioritizing the health and readiness of its officers, and by engaging in meaningful community development, the Command ensures it remains prepared to fulfill the Nigeria Customs Service’s mission with excellence and honor, under the inspiring leadership of CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, PhD.

Monday, 19 January 2026

Oyetola Inaugurates Nigerian Shippers’ Council Governing Board

Oyetola Inaugurates Nigerian Shippers’ Council Governing Board
*CAPTION* 
Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, CON (seventh from left); Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs. Fatima Sugra Mahmood (fifth from left); Chairman, Nigerian Shippers’ Council Governing Board, Dr Ibrahim Shehu Shema (fourth from right); Executive Secretary/CEO of Nigerian Shippers' Council, Dr Pius Akuta (third from right) and other Board Members of the Nigerian Shippers' Council at the inauguration of the NSC Governing Board in Abuja, on Monday.

Bisi Akingbade 


The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, today, Monday 19th January 2026, formally inaugurated the Governing Board of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council. 

The inauguration ceremony was held at the Honourable Minister’s Conference Room at the Ministry in Abuja. 

In his address at the event, Dr Oyetola described the inauguration as a significant milestone in strengthening institutional governance and accountability within Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy sector. He stated that the constitution of the Board, approved by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in furtherance of the Renewed Hope Agenda, underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to good governance, institutional effectiveness, and the strategic repositioning of the maritime sector as a catalyst for national economic transformation.

The Minister emphasised that the Nigerian Shippers’ Council, as the designated Port Economic Regulator, occupies a critical position in promoting efficiency, fairness, and transparency in port pricing, charges, and service delivery. He noted that effective regulation remains essential to reducing the cost of doing business at Nigerian ports, facilitating trade, protecting the interests of shippers, and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and global commerce.

Dr Oyetola charged members of the newly inaugurated Board to provide strategic direction, policy guidance, and vigilant oversight in line with statutory provisions and government policies. He urged the Board to work harmoniously with the Management of the Council, uphold professionalism, and ensure that every meeting and decision delivers measurable outcomes in trade facilitation, cost reduction, and sectoral competitiveness. 

He further assured the Board of the Ministry’s full support and collaboration, calling on members to justify the confidence reposed in them by the President and through integrity, discipline, and demonstrable results.

The Governing Board of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council is chaired by Dr Ibrahim Shehu Shema, former Governor of Katsina State. Other members include Dr Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Council; Dr Emi Membere-Otaji, representative of the Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA); Mr John Aluya, representative of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN); Rt Hon Chiji Collins; Mrs Olufunmilayo Olaseinde; Dr Funmilola Rashidat Adeoti; Alhaji Mele Kofo Gladem; Mrs Hafsatu Mohammed, representative of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL); Hon Maharazu Adamu Dayi; and Mrs Uzoamaka Okereke, representative of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

Responding on behalf of the Board, the Chairman, Dr Ibrahim Shehu Shema, expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve the nation in such a strategic capacity. He also thanked the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy for the confidence reposed in the Board and for his visionary leadership in repositioning the sector. 

Shema assured that the Board would discharge its responsibilities with dedication, professionalism, and integrity, and pledged its commitment to providing effective oversight, strengthening regulatory efficiency, and supporting initiatives that will enhance port performance, improve trade facilitation, and advance the national economic agenda. 

He further assured that the Board would work in close collaboration with the Ministry and the Management of the Council to deliver tangible and sustainable results for Nigerian shippers and the wider economy.

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council is the designated Port Economic Regulator responsible for promoting efficiency, transparency, competitiveness, and fairness in port operations and service delivery, while protecting the interests of shippers and improving Nigeria’s maritime trade environment. 


"Your tenure as Comptroller-General has been defined by strategic foresight, institutional discipline and an unwavering commitment to national service,” Dr. Afolabi

"Your tenure as Comptroller-General has been defined by strategic foresight, institutional discipline and an unwavering commitment to national service,” Dr. Afolabi 

 Bisi Akingbade 

The Chairman, SIFAX Group, Dr. Taiwo Afolabi, CON, has extended warm 60th  birthday felicitations to the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, commending his exemplary leadership and far-reaching contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth and global trade standing.

In a goodwill message issued on behalf of the Board, Management and Staff of SIFAX Group,  Afolabi described Adeniyi as a transformational leader whose tenure has brought renewed professionalism, efficiency and credibility to the Nigeria Customs Service.

According to him, Adeniyi’s leadership has been instrumental in driving significant reforms across customs operations, leading to sustained revenue growth, improved trade facilitation, enhanced border security and accelerated digital transformation within the Service.

“Your tenure as Comptroller-General has been defined by strategic foresight, institutional discipline and an unwavering commitment to national service,” Dr. Afolabi stated. “These achievements have not only strengthened Nigeria’s trade ecosystem but have also positively impacted the ease of doing business for stakeholders across the maritime, aviation and logistics sectors.”

He noted that the milestone reflects Adeniyi’s competence, integrity and global outlook, adding that it is a source of pride for Nigeria and inspiration for public service leadership across Africa.
As the Chairman of a leading pan-African conglomerate with interests in maritime, aviation, logistics, oil and gas and hospitality,  Afolabi affirmed that SIFAX Group deeply appreciates the Comptroller-General’s stakeholder-focused approach and his commitment to collaboration in building a more efficient, transparent and globally competitive customs system.

Dr. Afolabi concluded by praying for continued good health, wisdom and strength for Adeniyi as he consolidates ongoing reforms and attains greater milestones in service to Nigeria and the international community.
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President Tinubu Hails CG Adeniyi @ 60

President Tinubu Hails CG Adeniyi @ 60 
... Commends Adeniyi landmark Reforms, , Recognition as WCO Chairman 
 
Bisi Akingbade 


President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Comptroller-General of Customs , CGC, Comptroller Bashir Adewale Adeniyi on his 60th birthday with the milestone heralded by dedicated service to the nation, and landmark reforms since he assumed leadership that have repositioned the organization. 

The Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga stated this in a press statement made available for journalists that 
President Tinubu noted the efforts of Dr Adeniyi to graduate the NCS into a globally competitive, and relevant institution, resulting in the remarkable recognition and election of the Comptroller-General as Chairman of the World Customs Organization, WCO, in June, 2025. 

The President commends the Comptroller-General for projecting Nigeria and Africa on the global stage by providing inclusive, practical and charismatic leadership at the WCO and rallying of Customs Administrations and critical stakeholders for implementation of the AFCTA through C-PACT platform. 

President Tinubu notes the integration of the Authorized Economic Operator Programme in Nigeria, supported by the WCO, to improve cargo clearance times at ports, improve revenue performance and strengthen partnership with traders, and the adoption of WCO SAFE Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade. 

The President affirms that the internal reforms, evidenced by streamlining of operations through automation and digitization, upskilling and training of officers, high level diplomacy and adoption of global best practices have resulted in commendable changes in trade facilitation and revenue collections. 

President Tinubu acknowledges the visionary leadership of the Customs boss that has resulted in better community relations, steady surpassing of revenue targets, enhanced trade partnership with countries and multilateral institutions, and improved security around the borders. 

 As the Customs boss turns 60, the President prays that the Almighty God will grant him more strength, good health and wisdom to keep serving the nation. 


Friday, 16 January 2026

4th Quarter 2025: Kaduna Area Command Generates N14:686bn as Revenue


4th Quarter 2025: Kaduna Area Command Generates  N14:686bn as Revenue 
Bisi Akingbade 

The Customs Area Controller of the Kaduna Area Command, Comptroller Sa'ad Hassan has announced a greater success in the 4th quarter of the year 2025 which yielded tremendous revenue generation to the tune of fourteen billion, six hundred and eighty-six million, two hundred and fifty-six thousand, two hundred and seventy-naira, forty-nine kobo . N14,686,256,270.40

Comptroller  Hassan made this disclosure at a press briefing held at Kabala  Doki, Kaduna state.

According to the press release issued by the Deputy Superintendent of Customs 
Public Relations Officer of Kaduna Customs Area Command, Dauda Adamu, indicated that Comptroller Hassan said "Permit me at this juncture to report that the Command generated the sum of fourteen billion, six hundred and eighty-six million, two hundred and fifty-six thousand, two hundred and seventy-naira, forty-nine kobo N14,686,256,270.40 as revenue for the period under review. This can be compared to ten billion, eight hundred and sixty-two million, eight hundred and fifty-two thousand, four hundred and twenty-seven-naira, seventy-one kobo, N10,862,852,247.71, generated in the corresponding period of last year, 2024. There is therefore a differential of N3,823,403,842.78kobo. which is a significant increase of 35%."

Comptroller Hassan said that this attainment is evidence of the diligence, professionalism and commitment of our officers and men who worked tirelessly to ensure that we met and exceeded the revenue targets given to our command. It is also evocative of our steadfast commitment to the growth of our national economy.

He added that"In addition, our activities in the command have improved tremendously, and this has brought greater success, which is evident in our monthly collection revenue from October to December.  In October, we raked in five billion, one hundred and sixty-four million, four hundred and sixty-one thousand, three hundred ninety-one-naira, ninety kobo N 5,164,461,391.90kb, in November, we made three billion, eight hundred and thirty-four million, seven hundred and ninety-two thousand, seven hundred and forty-seven-naira, seventy kobo. N3,834,792,747.70kb, while in December our revenue collection leapt to five billion, six hundred and eighty-seven million, two thousand, one hundred and thirty-naira, eighty-seven kobo N5,687,002,130.89 kb.
 
He recalled that the core mandate of the command remains the generation of revenue for the Federal Government, facilitation of legitimate trade and protection of national economic security.

 The command will continue to implement necessary measures to improve toll collections, with adequate support from other service units. We shall maintain success through synergy and continued dialogue, by engaging and sensitising the local and trader communities while discharging our statutory responsibilities of enforcing compliance with government fiscal policies.

The Customs Area Controller stressed that the success recorded in the revenue in the last three (3) months can be good motivation from the Management of the Service, which has boosted the morale of officers and always kept and continuous deployment of intelligence and reconnaissance by our monitoring compliance Team. 

"I must commend the dedication of my officers and men, and the cooperation of other units, especially the Customs Intelligence Unit, the Valuation Unit and the Customs Police Unit, in their prompt actions.  It has really contributed to the success of the command.          

"Our achievement is in line with the policy drive of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR, PhD), who has championed the principle of consolidation, collaboration and innovation. His visionary leadership and enabling support have been crucial in heightening our potential and have driven these spectacular results.

 "In conclusion, let me thank you and further solicit the cooperation of various factories and Terminal Operators in the timely payment of appropriate Excise Duty, Import duty and other charges payable. We appreciate the traders who are doing well and urge them to continue with their efforts. We also assure them that the Command remains committed to fulfilling its mandate as outlined in the Nigerian Customs Service Act (NCS, Act 2023).  

"My sincere appreciation goes to the CGC and Nigeria Customs Service Management for creating the enabling environment for our achievements. "

Monday, 12 January 2026

Heritage Bank: NDIC Declares N24.3 BN for 2nd Liquidation of Dividend

Heritage Bank: NDIC Declares N24.3 BN for 2nd Liquidation of Dividend


Bisi Akingbade 

The Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, NDIC, has announced a second liquidation dividend of ₦24.3 billion for depositors of Heritage Bank who had balances exceeding the ₦5 million insured limit when the bank's license was revoked in June 2024. This payment represents 5.2 kobo per ₦1.00 on outstanding uninsured balances, bringing the total liquidation dividend declared so far to 14.4 kobo per ₦1.00.

Upon its appointment, the Corporation commenced the processing of claims and payment of insured deposits up to the statutory limit of N5 million from its Deposit Insurance Fund. The Corporation also immediately commenced the disposal of physical assets, recovery of debts, and realization of investments of the defunct bank.

As a result of these efforts, the NDIC declared a first liquidation dividend of ₦46.6 billion in April 2025, at a rate of 9.2 kobo per ₦1.00. This amount was paid on a pro-rata basis to depositors whose account balances exceeded the statutory insured limit of ₦5 million at the date of closure. Subsequently, the Corporation continued to pursue the recovery of assets to enable further reimbursement to eligible depositors.

It is in continuation thereof, that the NDIC has now declared a second liquidation dividend of ₦24.3 billion. This amount, derived from debt recovery, sale of physical assets, and realisation of investments, will be applied to the payment of uninsured balances for depositors with funds exceeding the ₦5 million insured limit. The second liquidation dividend is payable at a rate of 5.2 kobo per ₦1.00 on outstanding balances, in accordance with Section 72 of the NDIC Act 2023. This brings the cumulative liquidation dividend declared to date to 14.4 kobo per ₦1.00. 

The Head, Communication & Public Affairs Department, Hawwau Gambo stated in a press release that payments will be effected using depositors’ details already in the NDIC records. Eligible depositors, who previously received the insured sum and the first tranche of liquidation dividends, will have their alternative bank accounts automatically credited using their Bank Verification Numbers (BVN). Depositors are advised to check their accounts for confirmation.

Depositors without alternative bank accounts, BVNs, or who have not claimed their insured sum of up to ₦5 million or the first liquidation dividend, should visit the nearest NDIC office or complete the e-claim form available at https://ndic.gov.ng/claims-verification-forms for prompt processing.

For clarity, a liquidation dividend is the amount paid by the NDIC to depositors of a closed bank whose balances exceed the statutory insured limit, from proceeds of asset sales, investment realization, and debt recovery. Only after all depositors have been fully reimbursed will payments be made to other creditors, and subsequently to shareholders, subject to the availability of funds.

The NDIC assures the public that this payment represents only the second liquidation dividend. Additional payments shall be made subject to the realisation of assets and collection of outstanding debts. The Corporation remains committed to the timely recovery of all outstanding obligations and the prompt reimbursement of depositors.

For further enquiries, please contact:
Address: Director, Claims Resolution Department, 15 Marina Street, Lagos Island, Lagos (or any NDIC Office Nationwide)
Phone: 0810 422 0807 | 0810 931 3326 | 0903 819 7064 | 0906 465 7140 | 0903 727 3810 (Weekdays, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.)





Nigeria Customs Begins Implementation of Standard Operating Procedure for Courier Companies Under Delivered Duty Paid

Nigeria Customs Begins Implementation of Standard Operating Procedure for Courier Companies Under Delivered Duty Paid
Bisi Akingbade 

Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has  announced the commencement of a new Standard Operating Procedure SOP, for regulating courier companies operating under the Delivered Duty Paid, DDP, Incoterm which will provide a unified framework for registration, manifest submission, declaration, valuation, clearance, delivery and compliance monitoring, in line with global best practices. 

According to the press release issued by the Deputy Comptroller of Customs,
National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada indicated that the  Delivered Duty Paid initiative derives its legal foundation from International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Incoterms 2020, relevant sections of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, WCO SAFE Framework of Standards, Revised Kyoto Convention, WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, NCS Courier Clearance Guidelines, and the Nigeria Postal Service Act 2023.

Under the newly commenced procedure, courier companies intending to operate the DDP regime are requested to obtain a license from the NCS Headquarters License and Permit Unit under the Tariff and Trade Department. They are expected to submit all mandatory documents, including CAC registration papers, valid courier licenses, compliance bonds and a formal application to operate under DDP. 

It is pertinent to note that all licensed operators are required to submit an Advance Electronic Manifest (AEM) 24 hours before shipment arrival, clearly indicating DDP as the Incoterm and providing complete details such as HS codes, item descriptions, values, origins and consignees, in line with the WCO safe framework of standards.

The SOP further mandates courier companies to act as declarants by filing Single Goods Declarations (SGDs) via the B'Odogwú platform. Declarations should include the declared FOB values, supported by invoices, airway bills, and packing lists. Also, full payment of customs duties, VAT, and other statutory levies must be completed through authorised NCS payment channels before clearance. Additionally, risk-based cargo profiling will guide inspections, with physical examinations conducted when discrepancies or high-risk indicators are identified. Delivery to the consignee is permitted only after full clearance, and Proof of Delivery (POD) must be provided upon request.

To ensure strict adherence, the NCS has instituted a robust monitoring and enforcement mechanism through periodic Post-Clearance Audits (PCA). These audits will verify the accuracy of DDP declarations, prevent revenue leakages, and confirm compliance with classification and valuation standards. Violations, including false declarations, non-payment of duties, or operational misconduct, will attract sanctions such as suspension or revocation of clearance licences, seizure of goods, penalties with interest, and prosecution under the NCS Act, 2023. 

Courier operators are also required to submit monthly reports of all DDP shipments, including duty payments, classification details and delivery records, to the relevant Area Commands.

With this commencement, the NCS reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the integrity of the clearance process, enhancing revenue assurance, facilitating legitimate trade and ensuring that courier operations under the DDP regime meet the highest global compliance standards.