Seme Customs: Comptroller Kaila Visits Traditional Rulers, Security Agencies to End Trade Barriers Along Border Corridor

Seme Customs: Comptroller Kaila Visits Traditional Rulers, Security Agencies to End Trade Barriers Along Border Corridor

Bisi Akingbade 

The Nigeria Customs Service Seme Area Command has aimed to eradicate trade hindrances affecting free movement of goods and services along the Lagos-Abidjan business corridor through seeking collaboration and engagement with critical stakeholders.

The Area Controller made this known during a series of familiarisation visit  to the Palace of traditional rulers and heads of sister security agencies signifying commitment to achieving the goals and objectives of the Service in line with the Federal government economic policies.

The Public Relations Officer, Seme Command, SC JT Ayagbalo, in the press release stated that, at the Palace of Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, the Customs Area Controller condoled with the royal family and entire people of Badagry kingdom on the passing away of

HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I who was a well recognized traditional ruler across the border communities.

He said ""The purpose of my visit is to introduce myself as the Area Controller of Seme Command and to equally seek your royal blessing and support to achieve the core mandate of the service. Our priority remains to generate revenue, facilitate trade, and suppress smuggling.  And we in the Customs believe that without due support and co-operation from traditional rulers, we can not have effective performance of our functions as Customs officers" he said

In response, the King Regent, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, who described Kaila as the son of the soil, added that "We have listened to your request. Know that Badagry is a very peaceful town, and we will keep collaborating with you in safeguarding our borders and in promoting legitimate trade, " he stated.

Comptroller Kaila also visited the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori-Kingdom, where the monarch, Oba Israel Okoya, signifies his commitment to fostering the service relationship with residents living within the border  communities

"I welcome you to Badagry and be rest assured that I will always talk to my people whenever the need is required. In our town, our youth does not engage in illegalities as I have no other choice than to assist you in achieving the government mandate, " he mentioned 

While at the Palace of Alapa of Apa Kingdom the king HRM Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye commended and described the CAC, Comptroller Kaila as a professional, seasoned and well respected officer as described by indigenes of border communities.

"I promise you that I will always assist you in my area for anything that you need. Our border here has been peaceful because our youth always listen to the elders, and I know with your present here, things will change for the better, " he said

In his efforts to consolidate on existing synergy between sister security agencies, the controller visited Headquarters of 653 Nigerian Air force base, Ahanve-Badagry. The Air Force  base formation expressed their readiness to always support the command in achieving its mandate. This was revealed by the Commanding Officer, Group Captain Hungruy  Medugu, where he added that both agencies shared similar purposes.

"Our collaboration has been key to various successes we have recorded in our area of responsibility. Your presence here strengthens existing bonds of inter-agency collaboration between both Services, and we will not take it for granted ," he said

The Area Controller then ended his familirisation tour with seeking for mutual cooperation with a visit to the Republic of Benin Police office showing his readiness to eradicate hindrances affecting the free movement of goods and services across the border.

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Workers’ Day: Oyetola Celebrates Maritime Workers’ Dedication, Resilience

Workers’ Day: Oyetola Celebrates Maritime Workers’ Dedication, Resilience

CAPTION: HIS EXCELLENCY ADEGBOYEGA OYETOLA, CON, MINISTER OF MARINE AND BLUE ECONOMY 

Bisi Akingbade 

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, has extended warm congratulations to all maritime workers across Nigeria on the occasion of the 2026 Workers’ Day.

“Today, we celebrate the dedication, resilience, and invaluable contributions of seafarers, dockworkers, port administrators, marine engineers, fishermen, regulators, and all stakeholders whose daily efforts sustain the lifeblood of our nation’s economy. 

"The maritime sector remains a critical pillar in Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda, and its continued growth is a testament to your hard work and commitment,” the Minister said in a statement issued by his Special Adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola. 

He said Nigeria’s maritime workforce has remained steadfast in ensuring the smooth movement of goods, strengthening trade facilitation, enhancing port efficiency, and contributing significantly to national revenue. 

“Your role in advancing the Blue Economy through sustainable resource management, innovation, and environmental stewardship cannot be overstated,” Oyetola said. 

He said the Federal Government remains committed to improving working conditions, enhancing maritime security, investing in modern port infrastructure, and promoting policies that protect workers’ welfare and dignity.

The Minister urged all maritime workers to continue upholding professionalism, integrity, and excellence “as we collectively build a globally competitive maritime sector.” 

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SIFAX Group Sponsors Customs Feature Film “Novara”

SIFAX Group Sponsors Customs Feature Film “Novara”

Bisi Akingbade 

In a landmark evening that brought together the worlds of commerce, security, and storytelling, SIFAX Group was prominently recognised as a major sponsor at the star-studded premiere of 'Novara',  the Nigeria Customs Service's (NCS) debut feature film, held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at the Viva Cinemas, Jara Mall, Ikeja, Lagos.

The high-profile event, which drew senior customs officials, industry leaders, members of the diplomatic community, and entertainment figures, marked an unprecedented moment in Nigeria's institutional storytelling, with the NCS leveraging the power of cinema to illuminate the bravery and sacrifices of its officers in the relentless fight against smuggling.

Representing SIFAX Group at the event was Mrs Ololade Dawodu, Head of Clearing and Forwarding at SIFAX Shipping, who delivered an address that drew a direct line between the film's narrative and the realities of maritime operations at Nigeria's ports.

She noted that the story resonates strongly with real-life operations at Tin Can Island Port, one of Nigeria’s busiest commercial gateways and a critical hub within SIFAX Group’s operational landscape.

“For those of us in the industry, the sight of cargo ships and port operations is familiar but this film takes us beyond the surface, revealing the high-stakes reality that underpins global logistics.” She said.

Dawodu emphasised that the story goes beyond entertainment, serving as a tribute to the courage and resilience of officers who protect the nation’s economic lifelines. She pointed to the film’s portrayal of loss and sacrifice as a sobering reminder of the human cost tied to security enforcement.

“At SIFAX Group, we believe that a secure maritime sector is the backbone of a thriving economy. Without security, trade cannot flourish.” she stated.

SIFAX Group's partnership with the initiative did not go unnoticed. The film's producer, Agozie Ugwu, and the Superintendent of Customs 1, Mr Okpanachi Adejoh, both publicly commended SIFAX Group's contributions to the project's success, describing the Group's sponsorship as instrumental in bringing the story to the screen at the scale it deserved.

The premiere concluded on a reflective note, with guests commending both the storytelling and the collaboration between the creative industry and key institutions. For SIFAX Group, the evening reinforced a clear message: sustainable growth in trade and logistics depends not only on infrastructure and expertise, but also on unwavering commitment to security.

About 'Novara'

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Agozie Ugwu and featuring veteran Nollywood actors Francis Duru and Ray Adeka, Novara tells the story of a dedicated customs officer navigating the dangers of undercover operations, while also shedding light on the personal sacrifices made by law enforcement personnel. Through its narrative, the film highlights the often-unseen risks involved in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders.

The film follows Superintendent Panshak Asiya, an undercover Customs officer who risks everything, including the safety of his family, to dismantle one of the country's most dangerous smuggling syndicates. Beyond its gripping action sequences, the film explores themes of love, faith, sacrifice, and the unseen human cost of law enforcement.

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AMATO, FRSC, LASTMA, Port Police Collaborates to Tackle Port Trucking Challenges

AMATO, FRSC, LASTMA, Port Police Collaborates to Tackle Port Trucking Challenges

Bisi Akingbade 

Association of Maritime Truck Owners AMATO has inaugurated a rescue team to tackle systemic leakages and exploitative practices affecting trucking operations.

The AMATO National President, Chief Remi Ogungbemi, disclosed this during the inauguration of the Lagos executives and rescue team on Wednesday in Lagos.

Ogungbemi said the initiative formed part of efforts to address long-standing operational and safety challenges facing truckers servicing Lagos seaports.

He described the move as a shift toward practical, solution-driven interventions in a sector plagued by inefficiencies, financial strain and regulatory gaps.

Ogungbemi said the team would collaborate with traffic and enforcement agencies to clear obstructions, including broken-down trucks and fallen containers, to improve efficiency and safety.

He added that the team would be equipped with communication gadgets and motorbikes, while partnering towing operators pending deployment of AMATO’s assets.

“The initiative will complement efforts of agencies like the FRSC and LASTMA in maintaining order on Lagos roads,” Ogungbemi said.

He noted that poor recognition of trucks’ role in port logistics contributed to persistent challenges within the sector.

According to him, port privatisation removed designated truck parks, leading to indiscriminate parking along access roads.

Ogungbemi said such parking worsened congestion and operational inefficiencies within the port environment.

“Trucking is no longer as profitable as it used to be due to multiple layers of exploitation,” he said.

He cited infrastructure gaps, adding that AMATO proposed a standard marshalling yard to accommodate about 3,500 trucks serving Apapa and Tin Can ports.

Ogungbemi said the proposal had been submitted to the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy and referred to the Nigerian Shippers’ Council.

FRSC Lagos Sector Commander, Ganiyu Hamzat, disclosed plans to enforce regulations on unlatched containers from May 2026.

Hamzat said the enforcement would ensure all containers transported by trucks were properly secured before movement.

He noted that the measure aimed to reduce road hazards and prevent accidents linked to unstable cargo.

“We seek strategic partnership with AMATO for effective implementation of this exercise,” Hamzat said.

He congratulated the newly inaugurated executives, urging commitment and efficiency in their leadership roles.

Police Commissioner, Ports Authority Western Command, Toyin Agbaminoja, described the initiative as critical to strengthening safety and rapid response within ports.

Represented by an Inspector of police, Olubukola Sanni, she said the framework would enhance coordination and address emerging operational challenges.

Agbaminoja urged the new leadership to demonstrate integrity, responsibility and collaboration in discharging their duties.

Apapa Local Government Chairman, Idowu Sobanjo, encouraged periodic training to ensure compliance with legal frameworks.

Represented by Segun Moses, supervising counselor, she assured AMATO of the council’s support for improved traffic flow within the Apapa corridor. 

The immediate past Lagos State Chairman of AMATO and Chairman of the Lagos State Cargo Operations Committee (LASTCOC), Alhaji Lukman Shittu, endorsed the new leadership, citing Chairman Saro’s proven track record.

 Shittu also commended  Ogungbemi’s relentless advocacy, famously describing him as “a one-man battalion.”

Adding an industry-wide perspective, Chief Steven Okafor of the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) underscored the sector’s economic weight, noting that transport remains Nigeria’s second-largest employer after government.

With fresh leadership and a clear operational agenda, AMATO’s latest moves suggest a turning point—one where coordinated action, not congestion, defines the future of maritime trucking in Lagos.

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CGC Adeniyi Charges National Wrestlers to Conquer Africa, Return with Medals from Egypt

CGC Adeniyi Charges National Wrestlers to Conquer Africa, Return with Medals from Egypt

The Comptroller-General of Customs and the President Nigeria Wrestling Federation (NWF), Adewale Adeniyi, has charged Nigeria’s wrestlers to make the country proud and return home with medals as they prepare for the African Wrestling Championships in Alexandria, Egypt, scheduled for May 2026.

CGC Adeniyi, gave the charge on Tuesday, 28 April 2026, when he hosted athletes, coaches and officials of the federation at the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters, Maitama, Abuja, ahead of their departure for the continental tournament.

Addressing the athletes, the NWF President said qualifying to represent Nigeria at the championship was both a privilege and a serious responsibility.

“I congratulate you all for earning this opportunity. Many other athletes would love to be in your position. Representing the national flag at a continental championship is a great responsibility and obligation placed on your shoulders,” CGC Adeniyi said.

He reminded the wrestlers that they were no longer competing as individuals from their respective states, but as ambassadors of Nigeria, adding, “You are no longer representing Bayelsa, Ondo, Lagos or any other state. You are now ambassadors of the green-white-green. That is something we treasure deeply.”

The NWF President urged the team to be driven by the pride of hearing the Nigerian national anthem during medal presentations, expressing, “I want that thought to motivate you from the moment you step on Egyptian soil. Make a personal commitment that you are returning on that aircraft with medals.”

He said success at such tournaments would require discipline, strategy, commitment and determination, noting that the technical crew had worked hard to prepare the athletes during camp.

He added, “There is a journey between stepping onto the mat and leaving with a medal. It takes effort, energy, discipline and commitment. I believe your coaches have tried to instill these values in you.”

CGC Adeniyi disclosed that despite limited resources, the federation ensured that camping was organised because of its importance to the team’s preparation.

“When the proposal for camping came, resources were tight, but I knew how important it was. That was why we made every effort to make it happen,” Adeniyi stated.

He assured the athletes that the federation would continue to prioritise their welfare and motivation, adding, “We leave the responsibility of performing well in your hands, while the federation will take care of your welfare and motivation. I assure you, we will not let you down.”

The NWF President also urged the wrestlers to seize the opportunity to attract national recognition through outstanding performance, stressing, “This is your chance to write your names in gold. It does not come all the time, but when it comes, you must make the best use of it.”

Appreciating the female athletes, CGC Adeniyi noted that Nigeria’s female wrestlers were defending champions and challenged the men’s team to rise to the occasion.

He stated, “Our women are already champions. It is difficult to get to the top, but harder to remain there. For the men, this is another opportunity to show that Nigeria belongs at the top of African wrestling.”

It would be recalled that Nigeria has maintained strong dominance in African wrestling in recent years, with the women’s team finishing top at several continental championships, including previoustory editions in Hammamet, Tunisia, and Casablanca, Morocco.

Head coach, Akuh Purity, commended CGC Adeniyi for his unwavering support and commitment to raising the morale of the athletes, saying, “We want to assure him of our full commitment to represent Nigeria very well. We are not just going there to maintain our position; we are going there to come back victorious,” Purity said.

Speaking on behalf of the athletes, Hannah Reuben and Ulabo Solomon thanked the federation for the support and promised that the wrestlers would justify the confidence reposed in them.

“We appreciate the encouragement and the support we have received. We know the task ahead, and we are ready to fight for Nigeria. We will do our best to return with honours. We know what is expected of us. We are going there with determination and focus. We want to make Nigerians proud and show that we can compete with the best in Africa.”

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LILYPOND EXPORT COMMAND MAKES REMARKABLE GROWTH IN QUARTER 1 OF 2026

LILYPOND EXPORT COMMAND MAKES REMARKABLE GROWTH IN QUARTER 1 OF 2026

Bisi Akingbade 

The Lilypond Export Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has  processed exports valued at $925,844,469.84 (Nine Hundred and Twenty-Five Million, Eight Hundred and Forty-Four Thousand, Four Hundred and Sixty-Nine US Dollar, Eighty-Four Cents) in Q1 2026 which  represents a growth of 38.68% over the $667,597,082.65 (Six Hundred and Sixty-Seven Million, Five Hundred and Ninety-Seven Thousand, Eighty-Two USD, Sixty-Five Cents) recorded in Q1 2025.

According to the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller S.O Ariyibi in a press release disclosed that monthly performance within the quarter showed mixed trends.

His words "In January 2026, exports declined by 1.12%, amounting to $267.66 million (Two Hundred and Sixty-Seven Million, Six Hundred and Sixty Thousand USD) compared to $270.70 million (Two Hundred and Seventy Million, Seven Hundred Thousand USD) in January 2025.

"February 2026 recorded an increase of 12.43%, rising from $225.13 million (Two Hundred and Twenty-Five Million, One Hundred and Thirty Thousand USD) to $253.12 million (Two Hundred and Fifty-Three Million, One Hundred and Twenty Thousand Dollars).

"March 2026 witnessed a significant increase of 135.83%, with export value rising to $425.48 million (Four Hundred and Twenty-Five Million, Four Hundred and Eighty Thousand USD) from $171.76 million (One Hundred and Seventy-One Million, Seven Hundred and Sixty Thousand USD) in March 2025.

The Command boss said that Container throughput equally recorded remarkable growth. The Command processed 19,014 export containers in Q1 2026, representing an increase of 9,292 containers or 95.58% over the 9,722 containers handled in the corresponding period of 2025.

He highlighted that Agricultural exports increased from $523.26 million (Five Hundred and Twenty-Three Million, Two Hundred and Sixty Thousand USD) in Q1 2025 to $608.46 million (Six Hundred and Eight Million, Four Hundred and Sixty Thousand USD) in Q1 2026, indicating a growth of $85.20 million (Eighty-Five Million, Two Hundred Thousand USD). This reflects a steady and encouraging growth trajectory.

b. Manufactured Goods:

Export value rose significantly from $93.48 million (Ninety-Three Million, Four Hundred and Eighty Thousand USD) in Q1 2025 to $297.36 million (Two Hundred and Ninety-Seven Million, Three Hundred and Sixty Thousand USD) in Q1 2026, representing an increase of $203.88 million (Two Hundred and Three Million, Eight Hundred and Eighty Thousand USD). This underscores the sector’s emergence as a key driver of economic diversification.

c. Solid and Extractive Minerals:

Export value declined from $42.17 million (Forty-Two Million, One Hundred and Seventy Thousand USD) in Q1 2025 to $5.23 million (Five Million, Two Hundred and Thirty Thousand USD) in Q1 2026, representing a decrease of $36.93 million (Thirty-Six Million, Nine Hundred and Thirty Thousand USD). This reflects a strategic shift towards local processing and value addition in line with government policy.

Controller Ariyibi stated that Export surcharge collections (2.5%) increased to ₦199.36 million (One Hundred and Ninety-Nine Million, Three Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira) in Q1 2026, compared to ₦163.66 million (One Hundred and Sixty-Three Million, Six Hundred and Sixty Thousand Naira) in Q1 2025, representing a 21.81% increase.

He added that Proceeds under the Nigeria Export Supervision Scheme (NESS) increased during the period. NESS collections rose by N1.01 billion, or 20.15 per cent, from N5.01 billion in Q1 2025 to N6.03 billion in Q1 2026.

He urged all exporters operating within this Command to remain compliant with extant export regulations, avoid all forms of infractions, and keep abreast of guidelines issued by the Federal Government.

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CENTRAL BANK GOVERNOR, NIMASA DG ATTENDS FLORENCE OLADAPO FUNERAL RITES

CENTRAL BANK GOVERNOR, NIMASA DG  ATTENDS FLORENCE OLADAPO FUNERAL RITES 

CAPTION

L-R: Shola Cardoso, the CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso, Wife of NIMASA DG, Eng. Mrs Folake Mobereola, the Director general Nigerian Maritime Administration and safety Agency; Dr Dayo Mobereola, Mr Olley Oladapo during the funeral service of late Chief Mrs. Florence Mutola Oladapo held at St. Mary’s Anglican Church Agbala Maria, Surulere, Ondo, Ondo State over the weekend.

BISI AKINGBADE 

The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Yemi Cardoso, and the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, over the weekend attended the final funeral rites of late Chief Mrs. Florence Mutola Oladapo. The solemn ceremony was held at St. Mary’s Anglican Church, Agbala Maria, Surulere, in Ondo Town, Ondo State, drawing family members, dignitaries, and well-wishers who gathered to pay their last respects.

The service was marked by prayers, hymns, and heartfelt tributes celebrating the life and legacy of the deceased. Speakers highlighted her dedication to family, community, and service, noting that her enduring values and impact would continue to resonate with those she left behind. 

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