MWUN HOSTS CALSSAN ON COURTESY VISIT TO FORM SYNERGY

MWUN HOSTS CALSSAN ON COURTESY VISIT TO FORM SYNERGY

Bisi Akingbade 

The leadership of Maritime Workers Union, of Nigeria, MWUN ,on Tuesday, 19th of August 2025 hosted Courier Staff Association of Nigeria CALSSAN, an affiliate of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC.

CALSSAN delegation made up of Comrades Emeka Cyril Ekeh - Deputy President, Akor Jonah - State Vice Chairman, and Inih Ekwere the State Secretary were warmly received by the President-General of the Maritime Workers Union under Comrade Francis Bunu Abi with his national executives at the Union Secretariat in Olodi-Apapa, Lagos.

According to the press release issued by the Head of Media, MWUN, Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna stated that the  CALSSAN August visit to MWUN leadership according to the delegates is to congratulate the newly elected President-General of the Union, Comrade Bunu on his electoral victory as the new helsman of  MWUN; with the view of striking a formidable synergy between the two trade Unions, where CALSSAN believes that both Unions do have a lot in common,  given the dynamic  leadership of Comrade Bunu will be of immense advantage for CALSSAN and MWUN; hence the all important visit to Maritime Workers Union.

Comrade Bunu in his response, assured the guests of his maximum cooperation in all areas of CALSSAN operations within the labour sector; stressing that very good hands of comradeship is the only tool that can drive the wheel of progress successfully in the labour sector and towards achieving optimal results in all fronts of labour operations.

The active maritime expert, and astute administrator,   reiterated his assurance to the August visitors that the door of MWUN is assuredly open at all times for both labour Unions for a progressive advancement and mutual benefits towards the workers welfare at every point in time as the case may arise.

The Icon born Delta State veteran Sailor, further explained to CALSSAN executives on the need to continually promote workers welfare, which of course is his prerogative in his administrative leadership, saying that a healthy workforce is a healthy organization anywhere in the world, as Nigeria is not in exemption.

The MWUN PG thanked CALSSAN executives for the solidarity and support shown towards his executives and his  administration so far within this short pace of time.

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FG Will Replicate Lekki Deep Seaport Success Story - Says Oyetola

FG Will Replicate Lekki Deep Seaport Success Story - Says Oyetola 

...Directed NIMASA to immediately commence the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund, CVFF, to qualified Nigerian shipowners. 

Bisi Akingbade 

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, has announced plans to replicate the success of the Lekki Deep Seaport across Nigeria's maritime sector, citing it as a model for transformative growth and development. 

Speaking at the Nigerian Chamber of Shipping Breakfast Meeting in Lagos on Tuesday, Oyetola declared that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to building a modern, safe, and globally competitive maritime sector. 

The theme of the Breakfast Meeting was “Unlocking Opportunities: The Lekki Deep Seaport Playbook for Trade and Shipping in Nigeria.”

Minister Oyetola said a central component of the current administration's strategy is the nationwide application of the public-private partnership model and logistical efficiency demonstrated by the Lekki Deep Seaport.

"The maritime industry stands at the heart of our economic aspirations — not merely as a conduit for trade, but as a catalyst for industrial growth, job creation, and regional integration. Our vision is clear: to build a modern, safe, efficient, and globally competitive maritime sector that fully unlocks Nigeria’s economic potential. Achieving this vision will require more than sound policies; it demands sustained investment in infrastructure, targeted capacity building, accelerated digital transformation, and strong, enduring partnerships with the private sector," the Minister said. 

In a press release issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Communications to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Bolaji Akinola indicated that the valued at $1.5 billion, the Lekki facility was hailed as a “landmark achievement” and a “game-changer” for West Africa. 

The Minister highlighted its capacity to handle 1.2 million TEUs and accommodate large vessels, noting that it has already generated thousands of direct and indirect jobs. 

He also commended the completion of critical access roads, which, for the first time in decades, has freed major Nigerian ports from logistical bottlenecks.

"Cargo now moves out faster, investors move in with confidence, and trade flows without unnecessary delay," the Minister stated. 

He added that the port, which currently operates at only 20 per cent capacity, presents vast, untapped opportunities for investors.

The Minister explained that the “Lekki playbook” is founded on five key pillars: a strategic location, a robust public–private partnership framework, integrated transport links by road, rail, and inland waterways, supportive policies, and technology-driven operations.

To apply this model nationwide, Oyetola confirmed that the Ministry is actively modernizing Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports, and also upgrading the Eastern Ports in Onne, Calabar, and Rivers. 

He said, "Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, this administration is committed to taking the lessons of Lekki and applying them nationwide to transform our entire port system into a network of modern, efficient, and competitive gateways. To this end, we are modernising the Western Ports in Apapa, upgrading the Eastern Ports in Onne, Calabar, and Rivers to stimulate balanced regional growth, and finalising the Port Community System — integrated with the National Single Window — to create a paperless, transparent, and secure digital environment for all maritime stakeholders." 

Similarly, in a move aimed at empowering indigenous participation, the Minister said he has directed the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, to immediately commence the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund, CVFF, to qualified Nigerian shipowners. 

He emphasised that a strong national shipping fleet is essential to building local capacity and asserting Nigeria’s presence on global trade lanes, with the ultimate goal of establishing a National Flag Carrier.

Minister Oyetola concluded by stressing that the Lekki Deep Seaport serves as clear evidence of what can be achieved when policy, vision, investment, and execution align. 

He urged all stakeholders to replicate, refine, and scale the model for the prosperity of Nigeria and the African continent.

The Breakfast Meeting was attended by heads of government agencies, representatives of terminal operators, shipping companies and the organized private sector. 

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NIMASA Governing Board Approves Promotion of Deputy Directors, Assistant Directors, Ratifies Promotion of 169 staff members

NIMASA Governing Board Approves Promotion of Deputy Directors, Assistant Directors, Ratifies Promotion of 169 staff members

... See Your Elevation as Motivation to Higher Performance” - Dr. Mobereola

 Bisi Akingbade 

The Governing Board of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, has approved the promotion of nine Deputy Directors to Directors. In addition, the Board approved the promotion of 30 Assistant Directors to Deputy Directors, 35 Chiefs to Assistant Directors, and ratified the promotion of 169 other staff members from one grade level to the next grade level .

The newly appointed Directors include the Coordinator, Abuja Liaison Office, Mrs. Moji Jimoh; Director Internal Audit, Dr. Odunayo Ani;  Special Adviser to the DG, Mrs. Nneka Obianyor; Director Procurement, Mrs. Biodun Fatade; Dr. Oma Ofodile; Ms. Gloria Anyasodo; Mr. Abdulahi Yelwa; Umar Buba and Mr. Umar Ibrahim Sidi.

While congratulating the newly promoted officers, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, reaffirmed Management’s commitment to staff welfare and a transparent, merit-based career progression system.

 

According to the press release issued by the Deputy Director/Head, Public Relations, NIMASA, Osagie Edward, FNIPR, the Director General  charged the beneficiaries to rededicate themselves to excellence in service delivery.

“Our administration is committed to improved staff welfare. This promotion exercise is strictly merit-based, and we expect staff to reciprocate by rededicating themselves to higher productivity. We will continue to prioritize staff welfare, while counting on your commitment to the ideals of the Agency in helping Management actualize its mandate,” Mobereola stated.

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Nigeria Customs Engages Stakeholders on Cargo Clearance Challenges

Nigeria Customs Engages Stakeholders on Cargo Clearance Challenges

Bisi Akingbade 

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has convened a high-level stakeholders’ engagement meeting to address emerging issues affecting the maritime industry and cargo clearance processes and ensure seamless trade facilitation.

Speaking at the forum held on Monday, 11 August 2025, at Apapa Area Command, the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, restated that the deployment of the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), codenamed B’Odogwu, remains a firm and irreversible policy direction.

“On B’Odogwu, there is no going back. We have to forge ahead with what we have started. We know there will be issues, which is why, before now, we met with some authorised banks, and that engagement has yielded positive results”, Adeniyi said.

The CGC stressed the Service’s readiness to maintain open communication with stakeholders. “It’s our intent to always listen to you patiently, so we have brought everyone together today as equal partners in this project," he added.

The Comptroller General disclosed that some challenges have already been resolved through joint efforts, while work continues on others. He also raised concern over recent attempts to compromise the Service’s digital infrastructure.

“Just over the weekend, there were reports of individuals trying to infiltrate our system. There were several attempts, and the whole idea was to render our system inefficient. I want to remind you that such nefarious acts constitute economic sabotage, which we will not spare. On our part, we will continue to strengthen our system firewalls to prevent future downtimes”, he said. 

The engagement concluded with an interactive session, during which stakeholders shared their perspectives and concerns on maritime sector operations, with a collective resolve to work towards efficiency and transparency in cargo clearance.

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Oyetola Vows Sweeping Reforms to End Boat Mishaps as Committee Submits Report

Oyetola Vows Sweeping Reforms to End Boat Mishaps as Committee Submits Report

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, 

Bisi Akingbade 

In a bold step towards ending recurring fatalities on Nigeria’s waterways, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, has received the report of the Special Committee on the Prevention of Boat Mishaps in Nigeria, vowing that the Federal Government would implement sweeping reforms to improve maritime safety.

Speaking while receiving the report of the Special Committee in Abuja, Oyetola reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to making Nigerian waters safe for all users. He declared that the current spate of boat mishaps was unacceptable and preventable, and must be tackled through a blend of policy enforcement, stakeholder cooperation, and behavioural change. 

According to the press release signed by the Special Adviser, Media and Communications, to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Bolajo Akinola stated that:

“The safety of our citizens on water is not just a policy responsibility; it is a moral duty. Every life lost in a boat mishap is one too many,” the Minister stated.

 “This report will serve as a foundation for immediate and long-term reforms. We will study the recommendations closely and act where policy adjustments or institutional coordination are required.”

The Minister stressed the urgent need for attitudinal change among water transport users, especially regarding the use of life jackets, describing such safety gear as non-negotiable.

 He further revealed that the Federal Government is set to phase out rickety boats, often implicated in fatal accidents, and replace them with safer, standard-compliant alternatives.

In a strong call to action, Oyetola appealed to state governments and other sub-national authorities to align with federal initiatives, stating, “The fight against boat mishaps cannot be won by the Federal Government alone. We call on state governments to collaborate with us in enforcing standards and saving lives.” 

The Minister also said he recently approved a nationwide distribution of life jackets to riverine and coastal communities as part of a strategic intervention to curb the alarming rate of boat mishaps and related fatalities. He urged the beneficiaries to prioritise safety by consistently and correctly using the life jackets whenever they travel on water. 

The 16-member Special Committee, inaugurated by the Minister on 27th February 2025, was tasked with conducting a comprehensive review of commercial boat operations in Nigeria, identifying causes of boat mishaps, and proposing sustainable solutions. 

Committee Chairman and Managing Director/CEO of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), Bola Oyebamiji, presented the detailed report to the Minister, outlining its structure and key findings.

According to Oyebamiji, the committee exceeded its initial six-week mandate to ensure a thorough and credible outcome. The report, comprising six chapters, includes detailed analyses of current operations, regulatory gaps, design standards, and institutional capacity. It also proposes a comprehensive plan to enhance safety and oversight.

Among the 64 recommendations reviewed by four technical sub-committees, 17 key proposals were highlighted in the final chapter. These include: establishment of a Coastal Guard to enforce waterway safety regulations; creation of a National Boat Design Policy to standardise permitted vessel types; mandatory certification and formal training for boat operators; increased funding for NIWA to strengthen hydrographic and marine engineering functions; and setting up search and rescue stations at strategic locations across inland waterways. 

Oyebamiji expressed gratitude to the Minister for his support and to the committee members for their commitment and sacrifices. 

“We adopted both physical and virtual meetings and created four specialised sub-committees to ensure a robust and practical report. We hope our findings serve as a blueprint for lasting safety in the sector,” he added. 

The submission of the report marks a pivotal moment in President Bola Tinubu administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda,” particularly in fostering sustainable and safe blue economy practices.

The committee’s members include maritime safety experts, academics, engineers, legal practitioners, and policy professionals. They include Dr. Dayo Moberuola, Prof. S. Abiodun, Dr. Babatunde Olaosebikan, Prof. Busayo Fakinlede, Hadiza Idris Kuta, Engr. Yahaya Farouk, Attahiru Maccido and Denis Tar Iyaghigba. Others are Gani Tarzan Balogun, Capt. Stan Chucka Igwe, Raiph Onoshakpor, Prof. Ibiba Douglas, Richard Ntan, Babatope Fajemirokun and Ofie Adams.

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CGC Adeniyi: A Ministerial Material, Says Dr. Segun Musa

CGC Adeniyi: A Ministerial Material, Says Dr. Segun Musa

LT-RT  CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi , Dr. Oluwasegun Alade Musa, Chairman and Chief Consultant of Global Transport Policy (GTP).

Bisi Akingbade 

The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has been hailed as a prime candidate for ministerial appointment by Dr. Oluwasegun Alade Musa, Chairman and Chief Consultant of Global Transport Policy (GTP).

Speaking in the wake of Adeniyi’s recent election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization, WCO, Council and the extension of his tenure by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Musa described the CGC as a visionary leader whose dedication and administrative acumen have earned both national and international recognition.

He emphasized that Adeniyi’s elevation to the WCO Council and the extension of his tenure are clear affirmations of his competence and commitment to reform. 

 “If given the opportunity to nominate someone for a ministerial position, I would not hesitate to choose CGC Adeniyi. He is a man of vast knowledge, unwavering passion, and exceptional leadership qualities,” he said.

Highlighting Adeniyi’s career trajectory, Dr. Musa praised his dynamic personality, deep understanding of customs operations, and ability to lead with humility and integrity. Even during his time as Public Relations Officer of the NCS, he added that Adeniyi demonstrated remarkable skill and professionalism.

 “He is always confident in his decisions, engages effectively, and communicates with clarity. His interpersonal skills are unmatched, and his humility is a hallmark of true leadership.”

Having known CGC Adeniyi for nearly three decades, Dr. Musa attested to his character and credibility. He described him as someone who never lobbies for positions but earns respect through merit and performance.

 “He fits seamlessly into any role and commands respect wherever he serves. His election as WCO Chairperson is a global endorsement of the modernization efforts he has led within the NCS,” he stated.

Dr. Musa stressed that the extension of Adeniyi’s tenure was necessary to ensure the successful completion of the NCS modernization program, warning that handing over the initiative to someone with a different vision could derail progress.

“President Tinubu made a wise decision. CGC Adeniyi started this journey, and he must be the one to see it through. His determination and strategic leadership will take it to a logical conclusion.”

Dr. Musa concluded by affirming that Adeniyi would view the extension not as a moment for celebration, but as a renewed challenge to deliver even greater results.

 “He’s not one to rest on his laurels. This extension will only push him to raise the bar even higher,” he asserted.

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CGC Adeniyi: A Ministerial Material, Says Dr. Segun Musa

CGC Adeniyi: A Ministerial Material, Says Dr. Segun Musa

LT-RT  CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi , Dr. Oluwasegun Alade Musa, Chairman and Chief Consultant of Global Transport Policy (GTP).

Bisi Akingbade 

The Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has been hailed as a prime candidate for ministerial appointment by Dr. Oluwasegun Alade Musa, Chairman and Chief Consultant of Global Transport Policy (GTP).

Speaking in the wake of Adeniyi’s recent election as Chairperson of the World Customs Organization, WCO, Council and the extension of his tenure by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Musa described the CGC as a visionary leader whose dedication and administrative acumen have earned both national and international recognition.

He emphasized that Adeniyi’s elevation to the WCO Council and the extension of his tenure are clear affirmations of his competence and commitment to reform. 

 “If given the opportunity to nominate someone for a ministerial position, I would not hesitate to choose CGC Adeniyi. He is a man of vast knowledge, unwavering passion, and exceptional leadership qualities,” he said.

Highlighting Adeniyi’s career trajectory, Dr. Musa praised his dynamic personality, deep understanding of customs operations, and ability to lead with humility and integrity. Even during his time as Public Relations Officer of the NCS, he added that Adeniyi demonstrated remarkable skill and professionalism.

 “He is always confident in his decisions, engages effectively, and communicates with clarity. His interpersonal skills are unmatched, and his humility is a hallmark of true leadership.”

Having known CGC Adeniyi for nearly three decades, Dr. Musa attested to his character and credibility. He described him as someone who never lobbies for positions but earns respect through merit and performance.

 “He fits seamlessly into any role and commands respect wherever he serves. His election as WCO Chairperson is a global endorsement of the modernization efforts he has led within the NCS,” he stated.

Dr. Musa stressed that the extension of Adeniyi’s tenure was necessary to ensure the successful completion of the NCS modernization program, warning that handing over the initiative to someone with a different vision could derail progress.

“President Tinubu made a wise decision. CGC Adeniyi started this journey, and he must be the one to see it through. His determination and strategic leadership will take it to a logical conclusion.”

Dr. Musa concluded by affirming that Adeniyi would view the extension not as a moment for celebration, but as a renewed challenge to deliver even greater results.

 “He’s not one to rest on his laurels. This extension will only push him to raise the bar even higher,” he asserted.

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