LILYPOND EXPORT COMMAND MADE REMARKABLE GROWTH In Quarter 1 of 2026

LILYPOND EXPORT COMMAND MADE 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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"Shining a Consistent Light": How Media Moves Genuine Problems Into Policy Consciousness - Captain Iheanacho

"Shining a Consistent Light": How Media Moves Genuine Problems Into Policy Consciousness - Captain Iheanacho 

.  Capt. Emmanuel Iheanacho

Bisi Akingbade 

The former Minister of Interior and Master Mariner, Capt. Emmanuel Iheanacho has rolled out the significance of sustaining a tradition of professional engagement in a sector that is both vital to Nigeria economy and often insufficiently understood by the wider public.

He said leadership in journalism is not easy but it demands courage, persistence, judgement, and often the willingness to stand alone in defence of facts.

Capt. Iheanacho made this disclosure at the Maritime Reporter's Association of Nigeria, MARAN, Reception for Past President, on Thursday at the Rock view Hotel, Apapa, Lagos.

He enumerated four major power that really sustain attention and these are Agenda- Setting, Accountability, Public Education - Translating a technical industry and Stakeholder Mobilisations - Building Consensus for progress

In his analysis of Agenda- Setting, he said "In my years in business, I learnt very early that many genuine industry problems do not move upward into policy consciousness until the media shines a consistent light on them.

But once these issues became recurring media subjects, they moved from private frustration to public concern.

He said the value of agenga-setting is

When the media repeatedly highlights inefficiencies in our port corridors, or the need for modernisation, or the opportunities of the Blue Economy, it helps convert neglected concerns into national priorities.

"Many of us in industry have benefitted from this constructive spotlight. There were times when well-researched reporting helped government better understand the practical realities facing operators.

"However, I must add a word of caution from experience. Agenda-setting is most valuable when it is sustained, balanced, and informed. It is less useful when it becomes episodic—loud during crisis, silent during reform.

"We need journalism that follows issues beyond the headline and accompanies policy until results are delivered."

He said scrutiny is necessary in public revenue, international trade, multiple regulators for it to thrive.The maritime media has often played this role creditably by exposing:

Administrative bottlenecks Corruption risks, Policy contradictions, Operational inefficiencies, Delays that impose costs on businesses and consumers alike 

On Public Education: 

Capt. Iheanacho noted that "Our maritime industry is not always easy to understand. Shipping, marine insurance, vessel finance, customs systems, port concessioning, cabotage, freight logistics, international conventions—these are specialised subjects. Yet policy in these areas affects ordinary Nigerians every day through prices, jobs, trade flows, and national competitiveness.

This is why public education is one of the noblest functions of maritime journalism".

Capt. Iheanacho, who was ably represented by Barrister Emeka Akabogu explained that there is need for Stakeholder Mobilisations- Building Consensus for Progress

"No maritime sector develops through isolated effort.

Government alone cannot do it,

Private investors alone cannot do it,

Regulators alone cannot do it, 

Operators alone cannot do it.

Progress comes when stakeholders move in alignment.

The media often provides the platform where that alignment begins."

He concluded that where the media is responsible, informed, and courageous, industries progress faster.

Where reporting is careless, shallow, or easily swayed, progress becomes harder.

Nigeria needs a maritime media that is fearless but fair, Critical but constructive, Independent but informed and Energetic but disciplined.

The Pioneer President of MARAN, Rev. Albany Opara while briefing stakeholders on the birth of MARAN revealed that "reporters would daily snick into the ports without accreditation. Walked from one berth to the last berth of the Apapa and Tincan ports like sheep without shepherd or like ship without rudder. "We were indeed doing exclusive reporting and Maritime stories were sure Newspaper, Magazines lead or front page stories in the Radio and the television.

He noted that there was no room for story syndication "Our newspaper competed with each other by our reports. We rejected "envelope" or "egunje".

Opara further stated that the purpose of establishing the Association was to protect  the interest  of maritime reporters, make maritime industry operators  appreciate the contribution of the media to the development of the sector, contribute to the national economic and maritime industry development, and cover and project the Nigeria maritime industry to global maritime sector in way that they would recognize and see the Nigeria industry operators as viable partners they could not ignore.

He added that certain achievements like promulgation  of the National Shipping Policy decree, passing of cabotage law, official recognition of maritime reporting or Journalism in the sector, continuous industry training that the journalists  are receiving both home and abroad has been made.

The Chairman, Caretaker Committee, Maritime Reporter's Association of Nigeria, MARAN, Mr. Tunde Ayodele, in his welcome Address commended the invaluable wisdom, experience and guidance of the past  leadership of the . Association for the he said "When my team and I assumed responsibility as the caretaker committee, one of our foremost priorities was to reconnect with our roots by honouring these great men. This event is not just a celebration; it is a reminder that their labour was not in vain. Nearly four decades later, MARAN remains strong, relevant, and growing.

"Our past presidents are not only accomplished journalists but have also distinguished themselves in various sectors of the Nigerian economy. Their contributions continue to shape the nation in meaningful ways. From leadership in public service to continued mentorship and support for the media, they remain pillars of excellence and inspiration.

"Those pioneers, some of whom are here with us today, laid the foundation for what MARAN has become. Today, many of them are in their 60s and 70s, and we gather here not just to celebrate their years, but to honour their enduring legacy, sacrifice, and vision.

"We also remember with deep respect those among them who are no longer with us. They played their part in building this association and advancing the maritime industry. May their souls continue to rest in peace. I kindly request that we observe a moment of silence in their honour.

"Our past presidents are not only accomplished journalists but have also distinguished themselves in various sectors of the Nigerian economy. Their contributions continue to shape the nation in meaningful ways. From leadership in public service to continued mentorship and support for the media, they remain pillars of excellence and inspiration."

The highlight of the event was the Awards and certificates presentation to the past presidents of the Association.

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Nigeria Customs Strengthens Global Security Ties at DSA 2026 in Kuala Lumpur

Nigeria Customs Strengthens Global Security Ties at DSA 2026 in Kuala Lumpur

…As CGC Adeniyi calls for  Shift From Isolated Responses to Coordinated Action

Bisi Akingbade 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has once again underscored its role in global security cooperation, as the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adeniyi, participated in the 19th Defence Services Asia Exhibition and Conference (DSA 2026) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The high-level engagement, which took place on Tuesday, 21 April 2026, at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), bringing together over 1,400 companies and key stakeholders across defence technology, electronic warfare, and homeland security, was declared open by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Speaking as a Special Guest at the Police–Private Security Dialogue on Cross-Border Crime and Transnational Networks, Adeniyi emphasised the urgent need for coordinated global responses to emerging security threats. The session, convened under the Asia Pacific Security Association Malaysia International Security Summit (AMISST) 2026, brought together security leaders from 14 countries across Asia and the Pacific.

“The nature of crime has evolved beyond borders, requiring enforcement agencies to move from isolated responses to coordinated global action. Collaboration is no longer optional; it is the foundation of effective security,” Adeniyi stated.

He highlighted the growing sophistication of transnational criminal networks, noting that activities such as narcotics trafficking, wildlife crime, financial fraud, and terrorism financing are increasingly interconnected. According to him, enforcement strategies must reflect this reality through intelligence sharing and joint operations.

Drawing from the Nigeria Customs Service experience, the CGC outlined a three-pillar approach focused on technology adoption, institutional collaboration, and capacity building. He stressed that modern enforcement requires advanced tools and skilled personnel capable of responding to emerging crime typologies.

“We must invest in technology, strengthen partnerships, and continuously build the capacity of our officers to stay ahead of criminal networks that are constantly evolving,” he said.

Adeniyi also referenced the World Customs Organisation (WCO) frameworks, noting that these instruments provide critical guidance to member administrations in tackling cross-border crime. He added that criminal patterns originating from different regions have global implications, reinforcing the need for collective international action.

Participants at the dialogue identified common challenges facing enforcement agencies, including limited workforce, outdated tools, and the rapid advancement of technology-enabled crime. There was a shared consensus that criminals are increasingly coordinated, necessitating stronger collaboration among governments, international organisations, and private security stakeholders.

To this end, stakeholders called for enhanced intelligence gathering, deeper engagement with communities, and sustained partnerships with global agencies such as INTERPOL. The emphasis, they noted, must be on building trust and ensuring seamless cross-border cooperation.

On the sidelines of the conference, the CGC held bilateral engagements with customs administrations from the Asia-Pacific and the Americas to deepen operational partnerships and knowledge exchange.

He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with international security networks across Asia, Europe, and the Americas, noting that such partnerships are critical to securing borders, protecting national economic interests, and supporting the integrity of the global trading system.

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Oyetola Celebrates NPA’s First Female Executive Director, Aina Egharevba, at 70

Oyetola Celebrates NPA’s First Female Executive Director, Aina Egharevba, at 70

*CAPTION* 

Former Executive Director, Marine and Operations of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Ms Elizabeth Aina Egharevba.

... Your career has not only been distinguished by personal excellence but has also paved the way for greater participation of women in leadership within the maritime industry,” - Oyetola 

Bisi Akingbade 

The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, has extended warm congratulations to Ms. Elizabeth Aina Egharevba, the first female Executive Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA,  on the occasion of her 70th birthday on 21st April 2026.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser, Dr. Bolaji Akinola, on Tuesday, the Minister described Egharevba’s 70th birthday as a milestone worthy of national recognition, celebrating a lifetime of trailblazing achievements and dedicated service to Nigeria.

Oyetola praised Egharevba’s nearly three-decade career at the NPA, noting her exceptional professionalism, competence, and leadership, which earned her widespread respect across the maritime sector. He highlighted her historic appointment in November 2007 as the first woman to serve as Executive Director, Marine and Operations—a landmark achievement that not only shaped the institution but also advanced gender inclusion within the industry.

“Your career has not only been distinguished by personal excellence but has also paved the way for greater participation of women in leadership within the maritime industry,” the Minister stated.

The Minister further recalled her earlier roles as Port Manager of the RORO Port and later as Port Manager of the Lagos Port Complex, Apapa, describing these positions as clear demonstrations of her administrative expertise and ability to handle high-level responsibilities.

According to Oyetola, Egharevba’s legacy extends beyond her personal accomplishments, serving as a source of inspiration for future generations of women in maritime and public service. He commended her for embodying the values of diligence, integrity, and courage throughout her career.

“As you celebrate this significant milestone, it is my sincere hope that you take pride in the enduring legacy you have built and the indelible impact you have made on Nigeria’s maritime landscape,” he added.

The Minister concluded his message by wishing her continued good health, fulfillment, and many more years of happiness and service to humanity.

Egharevba’s contributions remain a defining chapter in the evolution of Nigeria’s maritime sector, with her pioneering role continuing to inspire progress toward inclusivity and excellence within the industry.

Signed: 

Dr. Bolaji Akinola 

Special Adviser to the Honourable Minister 

Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy 

Bukar Dipcharima House 

Abuja.

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Customs: CGC Adeniyi Receives NIJ Fellowship, Commits to Multimedia Centre for Journalism Development

Customs: CGC Adeniyi Receives NIJ Fellowship, Commits to Multimedia Centre for Journalism Development

 

Bisi Akingbade 

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, has been conferred with a Fellowship Award by the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, marking a significant recognition of his professional achievements and contributions to national development.

The conferment took place during a special convocation ceremony held on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, where the CGC noted that it holds personal and professional significance.

"This institution planted in me a set of values that I did not fully understand at the time, but have lived by ever since: professionalism as a standard, not a performance; discipline as a habit, not an event; and continuous self-development as a personal obligation, not to an employer, not to a rank, but to oneself", he stated. 

Highlighting the broader significance of the award, Adeniyi said the recognition extends beyond his person to the Nigeria Customs Service as an institution. "What it means for us is that while we render service to our country, some people somewhere are watching and our day of rewards can actually come like this."

As part of his commitment to the institute, the CGC announced plans to support the establishment of a modern multimedia and resource centre to enhance practical training for students.

"So we would be working with the school after the conduct of needs assessment to put up a building, a two-story building that would be a multimedia and resource centre. So we'll be having a radio station, editing suites, production suites, we'll be having a place where they can integrate all the major components of multimedia, audio, video, animation, text, images, and all of that", he said. 

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Governing Council, Olusegun Osoba, described the event as historic, revealing that the conferment was approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

He noted that the CGC is the first alumnus of the institute to receive the fellowship, adding that the honour is reserved for individuals with outstanding achievements in their fields. "He graduated from here and has been a shining example of an ex-student of this institute in his area of endeavour."

Similarly, the Provost of the institute, Gbenga Adefaye, said the award reflects the enduring values of the institution, including discipline, ethical responsibility, and intellectual rigour. 

He added that the CGC's career demonstrates how these values can translate into impactful leadership beyond journalism.

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Oyetola Commissions NIMASA–UNILAG Institute of Maritime Studies Building

Oyetola Commissions NIMASA–UNILAG Institute of Maritime Studies Building

CAPTION

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, commissioning the Institute of Maritime Studies Multipurpose Building at the University of Lagos on Thursday.

..."The future of the blue economy will be shaped not just by natural endowments, but by the quality of minds we nurture within institutions such as this." - Oyetola 

Bisi Akingbade 

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, today, Thursday 16 April 2026, commissioned the Institute of Maritime Studies (IMS) Multipurpose Building at the University of Lagos, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s marine and blue economy through sustained investment in human capital and infrastructure.

The facility, donated by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA, is equipped with modern lecture rooms, laboratories, and specialised facilities to support teaching, research, and innovation in the maritime sector.

Describing the project as a milestone, Dr. Oyetola said the initiative reflects the government’s resolve to strengthen institutional capacity and position the blue economy as a key driver of national prosperity.

“The future of the blue economy will be shaped not just by natural endowments, but by the quality of minds we nurture within institutions such as this,” the Minister said.

He emphasised that with over 90 per cent of Nigeria’s trade conducted via maritime channels, the sector remains critical to economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable development.

According to the press release issued by the Special Adviser to the Honourable Minister, Dr. Bolaji Akinola Highlighted the ongoing efforts to build manpower.  Oyetola disclosed that 2,459 Nigerians have been sponsored under the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP) for training in maritime institutions across countries including the United Kingdom, Egypt, the Philippines, India, and Romania. He added that 1,088 beneficiaries have obtained their Certificates of Competency.

The Minister also pointed to opportunities in fisheries and aquaculture, noting that Nigeria’s annual fish demand of 3.6 million metric tonnes presents significant potential for food security and employment.

He further outlined key government initiatives, including the planned disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF), expected to boost indigenous shipping capacity and create up to 30,000 jobs. 

He added that ongoing port modernisation projects are projected to "generate up to 20,000 jobs for our teeming youths, while significantly improving port efficiency, reducing turnaround time, and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness as a maritime hub in West and Central Africa.”

Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, said the agency is partnering with eight Nigerian universities, as well as international institutions including the World Maritime University, to strengthen maritime manpower development. He stressed that building a skilled offshore workforce will enhance Nigeria’s global competitiveness, reduce dependence on foreign expertise, and create sustainable employment opportunities.

Mobereola noted that the NIMASA–UNILAG partnership will boost research, support data-driven policymaking, and produce industry-ready professionals to meet evolving demands in the maritime sector.

In her remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, said the new facility will enhance teaching, research, and professional training in areas such as maritime law, shipping management, port operations, logistics, and marine environmental studies.

She added that the Institute is positioned to serve as a hub for innovation and interdisciplinary research that will support national development.

Also speaking, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, commended the Federal Government for its support and pledged the university’s continued collaboration in advancing manpower development in the maritime sector.

Established in 2013, the Institute of Maritime Studies, UNILAG, has grown into a strategic centre for maritime capacity development in Nigeria and the wider African region.

The event was attended by key stakeholders from the maritime sector and the academic community.

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