NAGAFF to Liberate more Young Freight Forwarders in 2023

NAGAFF to  Liberate more Young Freight Forwarders in 2023

National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, NAGAFF,  has promised that more young Freight Forwarders will be liberated in 2023.

NAGAFF President said this  in his Christmas and New Year message sent to his members and  the maritime community.

He felicitate with the Founder of NAGAFF, Dr Boniface Aniebonam, Board and NEC  members and entire members of NAGAFF for the achievements recorded in 2022, especially liberation of young freight forwarders, which according to him NAGAFF as a movement will continue to do in 2023, and said 2023 will be  better than 2022.

"In the maritme Industry we all understand  what the problems are, and NAGAFF as the  umbrella as our Founder used to say , NAGAFF is a Movement and this liberation, trying to liberate young freight forwarders . 

We tried the much we could do this year and by next year, 2023 , we will strive harder making sure young freight forwarders are being liberated . That we promised we do in 2023". 

Speaking further on some government policies and operational  challenges faced by freight forwarders in 2022, he said the restrictions of Forex on 41 items by the Central Bank of Nigeria and the introduction of the Vehicle Identification Number ( VIN) Valuation causes some disruption in the sector in 2022.

" In 2023 we will be happy to usher in a new President for the Country. We hope he has a listening ear . Actually the major problem in 2022 was the 41 items , they are not contraband items, but government said they are not raising Forex, that was the major problem we have in 2022, because these items constitute like 60% of imports. And so people will bring them in calling it different names as a way of survival. And looking at it , Government did not ban the 41 items. So if the new president look into those  41 items, lifting it from Forex ban , it will go a long way to improve the economy in the coming year". 

Esisi while accessing the maritime industry in 2022 said some of the government policies like the VIN Valuation policy and jacking up of Pre -Arrival Assessment Report, PAAR, by the Nigeria Customs Service,  NCS, though was in goodwill , but the administration of the policies causes hardship for freight forwarders and Nigerians and hope the next government in 2023 will address the various policies affecting the sector in the new year.

" I wish all my Members and other stakeholders in the maritme Industry , a PROSPEROUS new year".

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APM Terminals Apapa bags NPA HSE Platinum Merit Award

APM Terminals Apapa bags NPA HSE Platinum Merit Award

APM Terminals Apapa has received the Nigeria Ports Authority  Platinum Merit Award for its excellent performance in Health, Safety and Environment areas. 

The biggest terminal operator in the Lagos Port Complex made this known through its LinkedIn account yesterday.

According to the statement, “We are so excited that we have received the 2022 Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Lagos Ports Complex, HSE Committee Merit Award.

“The award ceremony is an annual event to acknowledge and honor port operators within the Lagos Ports Complex that have distinguished themselves in area of health, safety and environment compliance.

“Among the port terminal operators’ category for 2022, APM Terminals Apapa has received the highest award, Platinum Marit Award, for our continuous excellent performance in health, safety and environment areas.

“This great honor is a demonstration of our continued commitment to improving health, safety and environment, not just within the terminal but also within the port facility.”

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FG introduced fresh 0.5 Levy on imported goods for certainty, sustainability of African union, other key development institutions.

FG introduced fresh 0.5 Levy on imported goods for certainty, sustainability of African union, other key development institutions.

The Federal Government has initiated plans to introduce 0.5 per cent levy on imported goods to raise funds to meet its obligations to the African Development Bank, the World Bank and other multilateral organisations.

It was contained in a document titled ‘Invitation to a One Day Public Hearing and Submission of Memoranda on the 2022 Finance Bill,’ released by the House of Representatives Committee on Finance.

The new levy was introduced into the 2022 Finance Bill under Sector 13 for Customs, Excise, Tariff, etc. (Consolidation) Act. 

According to the document, “In addition to extant customs duties and other approved charges, a levy of 0.5 per cent is hereby imposed on all eligible goods imported into Nigeria from outside Africa to finance capital contributions, subscriptions and other financial obligations to the African Union, African Development Bank, African Export-Import Bank, ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development, Islamic Development Bank, United Nations and other multilateral institutions as may be designated by regulation issued by the minister responsible for finance.”

The government explained in the document that the amendment was essential to ensure certainty and sustainability of funding of the African Union and other key multilateral development institutions, “to bring into effect the Decision of the Outcome of the Retreat of the Assembly of the African Union (Assembly/AU/Dec.605; XXVII), and Federal Executive Council decision”.

The government will also tax all revenues from cryptocurrency and digital assets as well revenues from lottery operations and prizes.

The Finance Act, 2022 may take effect from 1st January 2023, if it is passed by the National Assembly and assented by President Muhammadu Buhari before this year ends.

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Government not ready to entertain any contravention of the parking law - LASPA

Government  not ready to entertain any  contravention of the parking law - LASPA

Lagos State Parking Authority, LASPA, has expressed dismay over the illegal parking perpetrated by customers of some night clubs on major roads across the state during the festive season.

General Manager, LASPA, Mrs Adebisi Adelabu,  in Lagos, described the act as an infraction of the State Parking Law.

She said that the authority was ready to go all out against violators of the state’s parking law.

Adelabu said that the authority, while conducting monitoring and compliance exercise across the state’s metropolis during the holiday, observed that a lot of night clubs encourage illegal parking on major roads.

She said that the indiscriminate parking on the major roads by the night clubs’ customers had  been causing heavy gridlock and inconvenience for motorists.

Adelabu noted that such incessant act by night clubs negated government’s continuous efforts towards improving the parking culture, reducing traffic congestion and drive time hour.

‘’Government is not ready to entertain any form of contravention of the parking law in the state.

 “Hence, we will take necessary actions against erring clubs, especially those situated in residential/high density or high traffic flow areas of the state,” 

The General Manager commended some night clubs for their compliance with the authority’s zero tolerance mandate for indiscriminate parking.

She, however, advised the non-complying night clubs to obtain parking permit from the authority and get alternative land for parking.

She said that punitive measures for defaulting outlets, including closing of facilities, clamping/towing of vehicles, among other sanctions, would be taken.

LASPA general manager said that the LASPA would continue to enlighten residents on the effect of indiscriminate parking, underlining its huge effect on traffic congestion across the metropolis.

Adelabu said that LASPA plans to begin full implementation of parking policy in 2023.

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Jamoh is leading the country towards realising Blue Economy - Senator Goje

Jamoh is leading the country towards realising Blue Economy - Senator Goje

The Chairman Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Danjuma Goje has described Dr.  Bashir Jamoh, OFR, DG NIMASA,  as a patriotic Nigerian dedicated to the economic development of the nation’s economy through the maritime sector. 

The Chairman of the induction ceremony of the investiture of Dr. Jamoh, as a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, Senator Goje,  noted the role Jamoh is playing in leading the country towards realizing the Blue Economy as well as the success of the Agency-driven Deep Blue Project in reducing maritime crimes in Nigerian waters.

He said that having worked closely with Jamoh as Chairman of the Senate Committee supervising NIMASA, he can attest to the strong work ethic of Jamoh and his dedication to serving the Nigerian maritime industry.

“I can confidently say that having amassed 32 years of service in the Nigerian maritime industry, Dr. Jamoh has proven himself to be a true Nigerian dedicated to the unity and economic growth of the nation. I know that he loves the maritime industry because at a stage when he could have pursued other endeavours, he chose to remain involved in the industry and I believe that the nation as a whole, has benefited from that decision”

The Director General,  NIMASA, in his response,  dedicated the Fellowship to every stakeholder in the industry for the enormous support he has received throughout his tenure without which he wouldn’t have been able to get much done while committing to continue giving his best towards developing the sector.“

Jamoh further assured NIIA  to be a good Ambassador of the institute

"Let me take this opportunity to thank every stakeholder in the Nigerian maritime sector for the support and backing they have provided myself and the Agency without which we would not have been able to achieve much. Equally, let me assure the Institute that being inducted as a Fellow will spur me on to do more for the development and economic growth of the nation. In this way, I hope to also be a good ambassador of the Institute”

.Director General of NIIA,  Prof. Eghosa Osaghae said that the Governing Board of the Institute unanimously approved Jamoh’s Fellowship of NIIA based on his achievements as NIMASA Chief Executive Officer. 

His words “We have followed with keen interest his performance as CEO of NIMASA and we have noticed the gradual and steady acceptance of Nigerian maritime industry in the global community. International collaboration midwifed by NIMASA under his leadership has seen to the reduction of criminality in Nigerian waters and acknowledged globally. The recent visit of the IMO Secretary General to Nigeria is also a confirmation that Nigeria is on the right track. We hope that this Fellowship will encourage him to serve Nigeria more”.

 

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NAGAFF advised Freight Forwarders to embrace Professionalism...Stop political blackmail - Aniebonam

NAGAFF advised Freight Forwarders to embrace 

Professionalism

...Stop political blackmail - Aniebonam 

The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, NAGAFF has call on all freight forwarders to embrace professionalism and he advised all maritime stakeholders to vote their conscience in the forth coming 2023 general elections.

The founder, NAGAFF and New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam while addressing stakeholders at the  association's 23rd Anniversary banquet in Lagos,  stressed the need for freight forwarders to embrace professionalism to ensure they are adequately educated and certified to be professionals in their business and also vote the right candidate into government offices.

He also enjoined all freight forwarders to ensure CRFFN is taking back from the full control of the government noting that its not a government agency.

Aniebonam informed that NNPP was founded in 2001 as a platform to encourage young minds to showcase their talents and popularity in order to  provide change for the narratives in Politics and government in Nigeria.

Dr. Aniebonam urged all stakeholders to support  NNPP, and stop all forms of political blackmail but vote their conscience in the forthcoming 2023 General elections.

"NAGAFF at 23 is the first link of what God wants me to do for him and that has to do with the liberation struggle creating opportunities for the young freight forwarders to be able to do things on their own and have that self confidence.

"That is why the NAGAFF Academy is very crucial to the administration of NAGAFF. 

"It is quite unfortunate that the NAGAFF Academy is not yet registered by CRFFN despite the fact that CRFFN is the brain wave of NAGAFF. 

"NAGAFF has an organisation under my watch founded CRFFN through an Act of the National Assembly which today is a Law. CRFFN as it were is not an agency of the government. It is a pseudo organisation and quassi government agency but those who were not part of the process bungled it and started parading themselves as government officials. But it is not over until it is over. 

"The liberation struggle is ongoing and the matter is still before an Appeal court. I have given you the platform, NAGAFF as a freight forwarding association cutting across the boundaries of Nigeria, the NAGAFF Academy to study and the Law to back you up. You must take back your profession 

"The man or woman who will lead Nigeria must be able to take wrong decisions than not taking any decisions at all on matters of urgent importance. The problem in our country is for one to be able to take urgent decisions. We need to take the bull my the hull by opening our minds and taking the right decisions. Allow the multi party system in Nigeria to play its part and vote your conscience" Aniebonam said.

The Registrar of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria, CRFFN, Barrister Sam Nwakohu in his speech stressed the importance of education and certification for all freight forwarders because the core mandate of the Council is to ensure that all practicing freight forwarders are duly registered, certified and professionalised.

Nwakohu informed that the Council has taken a decision to deregister any freight forwarder who does not possess at least a Diploma in Freight Forwarding by the end of 2023. He however advised that all frieght should ensure they enrol in training and fully certified before the deadline to avoid being deregistered or denied to practice freight forwarding in Nigeria.

In his welcome speech, the National President of the Association, Chief Tochukwu Esizi noted that NAGAFF shall continue to lead the way by bringing new ideas and innovation into the maritime industry through new and evolving digital technology, maintaining and Improving new values, standards, ethics and professional ethos of the industry.

Ezisi said that NAGAFF through constant stakeholders engagements will continue to remain proactive and dynamic in its advocacy campaigns, until the Maritime sector cum freight forwarding is enthroned as a leading economic contributor to the national treasury. 

The Gubernatorial candidate of Labour Paty (LP),  Lagos State, Mr. Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour stated that the maritime industry is an extremely important sector of Lagos State that must run efficiently. 

Rhodes-Vivour added that he will ensure that the problems are tackled through adequate provision of multi modal transport system, and proper call up system.

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NIMASA: Collaboration with Govt agencies, OPS critical to Blue Economy - Jamoh

NIMASA: Collaboration with Govt agencies, OPS critical to Blue Economy - Jamoh

Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA, Dr Bashir Jamoh OFR, has noted that collaboration among all organs of government and the organized private sector will accelerate harnessing the Blue Economy in Nigeria, citing the successes of the Deep Blue Project which is hinged on collaboration.

 He equally held that the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA has a critical role to play for Nigeria to fully harness the potentials of the Blue Economy

The NIMASA DG stated this while delivering a paper titled 'Opportunities and Challenges in Harnessing the Blue Economy at a seminar organized by the NIIA with the theme 'Safety, Security and Development in Nigeria's Maritime Domain: Problems, Strategies and Prospects.

“Our task at NIMASA is to explore how Nigeria can maximize the benefits derivable from our Blue Economy. This concept of Blue Economy which which gained prominence some few years ago requires local, regional and international collaboration to manage critical factors.

The Nigerian Institute of International Affairs should play a role in advising government on policies which would facilitate the realization of the Blue Economy", Jamoh stated.

 Jamoh stated that just as in maritime security, the Deep Blue Project has shown that through co-operation and collaboration, great results can be achieved, the reason he appreciates the participation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and the Nigeria Customs Service as well as the Nigerian Navy.

On his part, the Director-General of the NIIA Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, while acknowledging the progress made in securing the Nigerian Maritime domain and the Gulf of Guinea,  highlighted the importance of the Blue Economy globally while calling for sustainable use of ocean resources to be considered when shaping government policies. 

 "When considered in economic terms, the global Blue Economy would be the seventh largest in the world which highlights its importance. As such, sustainable use of the Blue Economy for economic growth should be at the core of any policy formulation by government'

The Nigeria Institute of International Affairs, NIIA, is Africa's Foremost Foreign Policy Think Tank with the goal of assisting governments and societies in creating a world that is secure and prosperous.

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CUSTOMS: FOU ZONE 'B' INTERCEPTED MARIJUANA CONCEALED IN 72 SACKS OF GARRI FLAKES

CUSTOMS: FOU ZONE 'B' INTERCEPTED MARIJUANA CONCEALED IN 72 SACKS OF GARRI FLAKES

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Federal Operations Unit, FOU Zone ‘B’ Kaduna has impounded a total of 72 sacks of cassava flakes also known as garri laden with cannabis in Zamfara State.

Customs Area Controller,  FOU Zone 'B' Comptroller Albashir Hamisu  described the seizure as a  spectacular seizure containing 72 sacks of illicit drug (Marijuana) exposing another tricks by which smugglers concealed smuggled goods.

He said In the case of this seizures, the smuggler concealed the Marijuana inside sacks of cassava flour,  adding that the Operatives of the Unit with the aid of informant intercepted the marijuana along Sokoto-Zamfara axis and brought it to the office.

He stated that  FOU operations are in line with sections 139 (provisions as to detention, seizure and condemnation of goods) and Section 158 (empowers officers to patrol freely) as enshrine in Customs and Excise Management Act, CEMA, Cap C45 LFN 2004, as amended.

He said the FOU Zone B, has a mandate of suppressing smuggling activities in the Zone which comprises the entire North West including Niger, Kogi, Kwara and FCT in the North Central, pointing out that other function of the Unit includes translation of Federal Government Fiscal Policies into reality with a view to make the economy remain attractive and healthy.

His words, "72 sacks of cannabis sativa (Marijuana) with a  total  #2,617,920.00 pointing out that the Marijuana would be handed over to the Commandant National Drug Law Enforcement Agency,  NDLEA, Kaduna State Command today on the spirit of Inter-agency collaboration.

He disclosed the Zone intercepted a total of 161 seizures of various contraband goods within the period under review with the total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of #351,508,658.56  between November and 20 December 2022, 

 Area Controller said three suspects were arrested in connection with some of the seizures and later released on administrative bail. noting that the Command under his watch shall continue to arrest anyone indulging in smuggling activities within the Zone.

He said it is on record that the Unit made a total 949  interceptions at different locations in the Zone from 1 January to 20 December 2022 with combined DPV of #2, 345,155,577.38) only  in contrast to the seizures made in the Year 2021 with DPV of #1, 319,332,763.00 only.

"As the Comptroller of the Unit, I would continue to operate an open door policy, give a sense of belonging to all Officers/Men and other critical stakeholders as well as instill discipline, for us to better fulfill the Unit's mandate.

"Let me warned the smugglers that want to take advantage of the Yuletide season to stay clear of the Zone, I want them to know that our operatives are on red alert and vigilant to tame smuggling activities during the festive period with a view of arresting and prosecuting them.

"It is my humble advice to smugglers to turn a new leaf and embrace the Federal Government agricultural policy and massive investment in Local rice production, so that they can create employment and boost the food security in the Country,"he stated.

The Items intercepted by officers and men of units within the period under review include:

 2114x50Kg Bags of Foreign Parboiled Rice - N104,597,231.90

, 126 Bales & Sacks of Foreign Second Hand Clothing -N18,820,777.50, 

65 x 25Kg Bags of Foreign Parboiled Rice- N1,608,046.38,

818 Cartons of Foreign Spaghetti, Macaroni & Couscous- N5,943,964.28,

 8 Units of Means of Conveyance (Vehicles), N59,162,337.00

, 102 Cartons of Foreign Carotone Body Cream - N15,235,867.50, 

102 Cartons of Foreign Eva Soap- N6,279,732.00.

While other items includes : 69 x 5Litres of Foreign Vegetable Oil - 848,010.00, 

30 x 25 Litres of Foreign Vegetable Oil - 843,500.00,

Sacks of Foreign Second Hand Shoes - 597,485.00,

Sacks of Foreign Tomato Paste - N134,944.20, 

 13 Sacks of Foreign Hides and Skin (Ponmo) - N584,758.20

113 Bundles of Foreign Textiles -  N9,165,882.00,

10 Cartons of Foreign Flavoured Chewing Gum -  N1,924,614.00, 

7 x 25Kg Bags of Foreign Flour -  N314,869.80,

, 55 Pieces of Foreign Used Tyres  -  N479,586.80, 

438 x 25litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) - N 827,754.30, 

87 x 50Kg Bags of Foreign 

 (N.P.K 15-15-15) - N4,304,616.45

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4th National Roundtable 2022 Edition: Nigeria is under trade terrorism - Dr. Farinto

4th National Roundtable 2022 Edition:  Stakeholders Lament Insecurity in Nigeria                             
Nigeria is under trade terrorism - Dr. Farinto

 Stakeholders, at it's 2022 Edition of the  4th National Roundtable Discussion held in Làgos unanimously agreed that Nigeria has been overwhelmed with insecurity, high level of corruption, collapsing economy and anxiety over the 2023 general elections.

The Acting President of the Association  of Nigerian Customs Lisenced Agents, ANCLA, Dr Kayode Farinto said the nation is in the era of trade terrorism.

Farinto in his keynote address said rather than concentrating on the improvements of the nation's economy, the government is only interested in revenue generation.

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We are not owing sacked dockworkers – Sambo

We are not owing sacked dockworkers – Sambo 
By  Bisi Akingbade

The Minister of Transportation, Mr Mu’azu Sambo, says the Federal Government is not owing dockworkers sacked due to port concession in 2006.

 

Sambo said this at the 34th Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria, MARAN, Anniversary and Awards  in Lagos.

The anniversary was themed: ”16 Years of Port Concession: The Pains and the Gains.”

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NIMASA sends 400 students Overseas for training

NSDP: NIMASA sends 400 students  Overseas for training

...Talks tough on truancy 

Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency,  NIMASA, has dispatched new 400 students to Greece and India for further study under its National Seafarers Development Programme, NSDP.

The Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, made this known  at the flag off ceremony of the third phase of the NSDP-TERRA  programme at Naval Dockyard Victoria Island, Lagos

Jamoh gave an insights on the  training programmes  which started in 2008 to empower the Nigerian youths to become Seafarers and Naval Architects as well as training them to degree level in Marine Engineering, Nautical Sciences and Naval Architecture in some of the best Maritime Training Institutions (MTIs) abroad.

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NAGAFF 100% Compliance Team advocate for E-Customs as APMT Debit Notes shows reduction

 

NAGAFF 100% Compliance Team advocate for E-Customs as APMT Debit Notes shows reduction

The complaints of NAGAFF 100% Compliance Team has yielded a good result as AP Moller Terminal has recently effected changes in its debit notes. 

Recently, NAGAFF 100 Compliance team alledgedly accused APMT of dubious , outrageous and multiple charges which slow down the pace of scanning as well as deliberate  imposition  of payment of demurrage on freight forwarders.

 NAGAFF 100% Compliance Team National Coordinator, Alhaji Ibrahim Tanko who reacted to this development thanked the Nigeria Customs Service for their prompt intervention while expressing hope that other issues raised in their letter of compliant would be resolved soon. 

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LASTMA apprehended 2 suspected kidnappers, rescue a victim in Lagos.

LASTMA apprehended 2 suspected kidnappers, rescue a victim in Lagos.

Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, have arrested two suspected kidnappers and rescued a female victim inside their car around the Pedesbytrian Church, Yaba, Lagos.

According to the statement issued by the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Bolaji Oreagba through the Director Public Affairs units of LASTMA, Mr. Taofiq Adebayo.

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NIM, PZ to organise tailor-made training for human capital development.

The Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) Chartered will partner PZ Cussons Plc in management excellence and human capital development to drive the right competencies in the company’s operations and service delivery.

Atako noted that PZ had made giant strides in the real sector of the nation’s economy in spite of the myriads of challenges militating against the sector.

According to her, the company has changed the industrial landscape of the country with its reliable and durable household products, making it a household name.

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ICAN Says Tax Evasion Causes Low Revenue in Nigeria

ICAN Says Tax Evasion Causes Low Revenue in Nigeria

 

The Institute of Chartered Accountant of Nigeria, ICAN, has said that there is low tax revenue in Nigeria because most people evade tax.

During the 2022 Budget Symposium organized by ICAN,  ICAN said:" Despite controlling land and key taxes such as PIT, Stamp Duties, Property taxes, 85% VAT, share of FAAC , revenue performance at the states level remains abysmal.               

At the Symposium, ICAN Vice President  Dr Innocent Okwuosa, who represented the ICAN President said one of the critical challenges facing the tax system in Nigeria is the shocking high level of non-compliance as a result of low tax morale".                      

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COMTUA returns to PSTT

 

COMTUA returns to PSTT
...Get approval from Ministry of Transportation

The Council of Maritime Transport Unions and Associations, COMTUA) has announced  the reconciliation between COMTUA and the PSTT at the Comtual Annual Congress in Lagos.

This was made known by the President , COMTUAL, Prince Adeyinka Aroyewun. 

He said COMTUA  purposely left  PSTT because  PSTT was derailing from its core functions while its performance was been exaggerated.

With this allegations, the Council of Maritime Transport Unions & Associations, (COMTUA) pulled out of PSTT.

Aroyewun stated that the associations and the committee has now reconciled  for effective collaboration in ensuring  free port access roads.

His words"We left the committee initially because the committee seems to be derailing. But over time, with our criticism and lots of efforts of the Nigerian Shippers Council. I think we are now on track. COMTUA sees the reason to collaborate with them especially when its comes to the area of traffic in the port access roads. I want to believe that if we collaborate we will achieve more results than what we are seeing"

Earlier in his opening speech, the COMTUA Boss noted that the union's engagements with the government and other stakeholders have led to the disbandment and suspension of several tasks forces and creation of functional and supportive bodies to assist their businesses. He however promised to deliver on the Union's promise to bring everyone on board and attend to their needs.

Prof. Odewunmi,an Academia from Lagos State University identified some peculiar challenges working against the  flow of traffic in Lagos.

Odewunmi said disjointed incrementalism in absence of transport policy, weak enforcement of traffic laws and , policy Summersault should be looked into. 

He suggested that the Ministry of Transport should be professionalised 

The National Coordinator of PSTT, Mr Moses Fadipe who represented the Nigerian Shippers Council at the event noted that the Committee have decided to welcome COMTUA back for better relationship and engagement in achieving the goals and objectives of the team.

He emphasised that the Rules of Engagements of the committee  remains unchanged. He however urged the Union to strictly abide by the Rules of Engagement to avoid future disagreements.

"The COMTUA President said sometimes ago they left the Task Team because they felt they are not doing enough but now they said they are back. 

"A father cannot have 20 children and wish that one will be out of the Palace. We have welcomed them back fully as the National Coordinator. I would convey the message to the Presidential Task Team. But be that as it may, our Rules of Engagement remain the same. It has never changed" Fadipe stressed.

The Governor of Lagos State,  Governor Babajide Sanwo represented by the General Manager, Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA), Mr Damilola Emmanuel stressed on the importance of technology in the development of the haulage, logistics and transportation sector at large.

He added that bi- annual inspection of all boats is being carried out, water guards are in all jetties to ensure people are not overloading their boats, introduction of fuel-docks in Lagos, Eastern and Western axis to reduced the risk on the water.

The Special Adviser to the Governor, Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Hon Sola Giwa represented by Engr. Ojo Owuro commends  the efforts and contribution of COMTUA to the development of transportation in Lagos. 

 He said the Ministry has issued an approval recognising COMTUA as a single body. 

He enjoined members of the Union to shun disunity but work together as a team.

The Awards winners  are:  Vice President of the Federation, Prof Yemi Osinbajo, Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu,  Managing Director of NPA, Muhammed Bello-Koko, Executive Secretary of NSC, Hon Emmanuel Jime,

 Others are Mussadiq Adesina Elegbede, Transport Line (LTV 8), Aderohumu Folashade T., Maritime Today ( Traffic Radio) and Adaku Onyenucheya, Guardian Newspaper.

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ICMPD extends medical outreach to 100 victims of trafficking

The International Centre for  Policy Development, ICMPD. says it extended free medical outreach to 100 victims of human trafficking to enable them live healthy to achieve their dreams.

The Head of Region of ICMPD for West Africa, Dr Mojisola Sodeinde, said this at a Joint Capacity Building of Shelter Operators and Service Providers with Medical Outreach for 100 Human Trafficking Victims between Nigeria and Niger held in Lagos.

Sodeinde, who was represented by the Programme Assistant of ICMPD, Adeniyi Bakre, said they also trained no fewer than 60 women on protection of referral mechanism of trafficking human beings.

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SON seeks support over amendment of Act for needed support

The industry needs to be supported and nurtured and we are working with the National Assembly to adjust our Act to provide the needed support,” he said.

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has charged industries to support the amendment of the SON Act of establishment to further empower the agency in its fight against substandard products in Nigeria.

Mallam Farouk Salim, Director-General, SON, said this during SON’s facility tour to Friesland Campina in Lagos.

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AREFFN : TIN CAN ISLAND PORT CHAPTER APPOINTS NEW EXECUTIVE

 

AREFFN :  TIN CAN ISLAND PORT CHAPTER APPOINTS NEW EXECUTIVE

... As Capacity Training tops Agenda

The Association of Registered Freight Forwarders, AREFFN, Tin Can Island Port Chapter has appointed new executives to pilot the affairs of the association.

The Chapter appointed  Chinedu Ukachukwu as  Chairman; Abdullahi Namama as Vice Chairman; Oke Ucheya as Secretary and Musa Gbadamosi as Public Relations Officer.

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LASG begins impounding of unpainted commercial vehicles

The Lagos State Government has directed the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, to begin to arrest and impound unpainted commercial vehicles from Monday across the state. 

The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Bolaji Oreagba, said this in a statement through the Director, Public Affairs Unit of the authority, Mr Toafik Adebayo, in Lagos on Sunday.

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WAEC Commends LASEMA for swift response to fire incident

The West African Examinations Council, WAEC, has commended the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency and its Permanent Secretary, Dr.Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu for its commitment to safeguarding lives and properties of residents in Lagos State.

According to the  Letter of Appreciation delivered to the Permanent Secretary at the Command and Control Centre at Alausa, Ikeja, by a delegation from its national office, the Council expressed its profound gratitude for the Agency's swift, prompt, effective and efficient response to the unfortunate fire incident that occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, 26th October 2022,at the Council's national office in Yaba area of Lagos State. 

The delegation, led  by the Head of the Council's national office, Mr Patrick E. Areghan  thanked LASEMA for the courage and professionalism exhibited by its Response Unit and saving the lives of some of the Council's staff who were trapped in the building by the fire.

Areghan, expressed gratitude to God that no lives were lost to the fire, commended the courage of the LASEMA Response Unit in saving lives and ensuring that documents and records of immeasurable value, in addition to physical assets, were also saved from destruction.

In his response, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu thanked the Council's delegation for its kind words and appreciation of the Agency's efforts.

He reaffirmed LASEMA's commitment to safeguarding lives and properties in the State. 

Osanyintolu reiterated that safety of lives and properties of Lagosians is paramount to the administration of Mr. Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.

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LAWMA WARNS RESIDENTS NOT TO DUMP REFUSE IN ABANDONED PROPERTIES

 LAWMA WARNS RESIDENTS NOT TO DUMP REFUSE IN ABANDONED PROPERTIES  

The Managing Director/CEO of the Lagos Waste Management Authority,  LAWMA, Ibrahim Odumboni, has warned residents against turning abandoned properties to dump sites, or using waste to reclaim lands for future uses.

Odumboni who spoke through a press release signed by the Director, Public Affairs, Kadiri Folashade (Mrs.), noted that both illegal practices constituted environmental offences, punishable by outright forfeiture of such properties and prosecution of violators.

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MARAN TO XRAY PORT CONCESSION REGIME AT 34TH ANNIVERSARY

MARAN TO XRAY PORT CONCESSION REGIME AT 34TH ANNIVERSARY 

The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, MARAN,  is set to highlights the maritime industry for more than  its 34 Years of robust reportage of the maritime industry  in  November 28th 2022 in Lagos.

MARAN is an affiliate of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ.

MARAN, the foremost maritime media association was formed in November 1988, it has remained the umbrella body of all journalists posted to cover or report the activities of the nation's shipping and other related business in the industry.

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AMAE's artistic rendition depicts state of Nigeria's maritime industry

 

AMAE's artistic rendition depicts state of Nigeria's maritime industry

Artistic rendition by the maiden African Maritime Art Exhibition (AMAE) fully expressed the beautiful and ugly sides of the Nigerian maritime industry.

Art, being a beautiful way of creating awareness, was employed to send a clear message on  the state of shipping in Nigeria.

This artistic impression of what the industry looks like was depicted at the maiden edition of African Maritime Art Exhibition (AMAE).

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NIMASA organizes Senior Management Strategy Session for successful implementation of her tripod mandate

NIMASA  organizes Senior Management Strategy Session for successful implementation of her tripod mandate  

As part of its efforts to review performance and strategize to achieve its mandate the Management of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA has organized a 3-day Management strategic session. 

 While speaking during the opening of the session, the Agency’s Director General, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, OFR, noted that continuous internal stakeholders’ engagement is a key component of the current administration to achieve a successful implementation of her tripod mandate of ensuring Maritime Safety, Maritime Security and Shipping Development for the Nigerian Maritime industry.

Dr. Jamoh disclosed that in order to achieve the mandate of the Agency, it requires collective efforts from all stakeholders, which will in turn help drive investors’ confidence in engaging in businesses in the Nigerian maritime sector. 

 “Shipping is crucial to the survival of the global economy, as was exemplified during the COVID-19 pandemic, where virtually all sectors of the global economy were grounded, except the shipping industry. For us at NIMASA, we are focused on driving the Agenda of the Federal Government in making the Nigerian maritime sector attractive for investors, while we keep building the capacity of our people to make them compete favourably with their counterparts in the comity of maritime nations”.  ​

 The Director General of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) ’Laoye Jaiyeola  hinged his presentation on providing leadership in uncertain times, noted that the maritime industry is capable of playing a leading role in reshaping the Nigerian economy.

He used the opportunity to enjoin the Management of the Agency to move with the trend in order to meet up with modern day realities in ensuring the Nigerian maritime sector is in tandem with its counterpart in other maritime climes. 

“With the global uncertainty due largely to the Ukraine-Russian war and adapting to the new normal brought unto humanity by COVID-19 which has led to weakening global stability, Blue Economy is the future. Leaders should embrace the use of technology in the maritime sector and acquire new skills in-demand. This is the only way Nigeria can provide leadership in the maritime sector” He said.

It is imperative to state that the Dr. Bashir Jamoh led administration has adopted continuous stakeholder engagements across board in the quest to realize its mandate. The Senior Management Strategic Management session 2022, has an eight-year plan made up of short, medium and long-term clearly stated goals aimed at enhancing the performance of the Agency.

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NIWA: Lagos Manager bags FNSE Fellow at Nigerian Society of Engineers

NIWA: Lagos Manager bags FNSE Fellow at Nigerian Society of Engineers 

The Nigerian Island Waterways Authority, NIWA, Lagos Area Manager, Mrs Sarat Braimah bag FNSE Fellow of Nigerian Society of Engineers

Braimah made this known through  a statement issued in Lagos.

The area manager said that the NSE remained one of the  most important group of professionals,  worthy of great interest. 

She said she was indeed pleasantly surprised by the approval of the council of Nigerian Society of Engineers of his election as Fellow which was the highest level in the Nigerian Society of Engineers.

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LASG to carry out critical assessment to tackle ecological challenges in Lekki Free Zone

 LASG to carry out critical assessment to tackle ecological challenges in Lekki Free Zone

The Lagos State Government will hold a one-day stakeholders’ meeting to tackle various environmental, ecological and social challenges along the Lekki Free Zone corridor.

The Managing Director, Global Impact Environmental Consulting Ltd., Dr Babatunde Osho, made this known in a statement issued in Lagos.

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NIWA, Stakeholders deliberate on high tides, flooding in Lagos.

NIWA, Stakeholders deliberate on high tides, flooding in Lagos.

The National Inland Waterways Authority, NIWA, has warned boat operators and ferry service providers to observe necessary rules to avoid boat mishap.

According to the statement made by the Lagos Area Manager , Mrs. Sarat Braimah after a stakeholders meeting on water transportation to deliberate on expected high tides and incidence of flood in littoral communities across Nigeria.

She said that flood had breached socioeconomic and environmental lifelines of most states in the country, rendering people homeless and destroying farms, lands and livestock.

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LASWA, AFD creates Wide-lag project to improve water transportation system

 

LASWA, AFD creates Wide-lag project to improve water transportation system

The Lagos State Waterways Authority,  LASWA says it is partnering with the French Development Agency, AFD, to engender improved water transportation system in Lagos.

General Manager, LASWA, Mr Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, disclosed this in Lagos when the AFD team visited the LASWA headquarters at Falomo, Lagos.

The visit was to kick-start preparatory study of the AFD Wide-Lag Project which  required expertise for inland water transportation, adding that both organisations were creating the Wide-Lag Project together to improve water transportation in Lagos.

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Western Marine Customs Command seized cannabis sativa worth 2billion

 

Western Marine Customs Command seized  cannabis sativa worth 2billion 

The Western Marine Command of Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has seized goods worth  N2.2billion including; 29,660 parcels of cannabis; 1575 bags of rice; 28735 litres of petrol in four months.

Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Abubakar Umar disclosed this during a press briefing in Lagos stating that the seizures were made between June and October, 2022.

 The seized items consists of  Cannabis Sativa (Marijuana) weighed 16,663kg and estimated to be N2,061,000,000;  the seized 1575 bags of foreign parboiled rice equivalent to more than 2 trailer load of rice and worth N39,375,000

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Apapa Customs generated N790.6 billion revenue in 9 months

Apapa Customs generated N790.6 billion revenue in 9 months

The Controller of Apapa Customs Command Comptroller Yusuf Malanta Ibrahim has stated that the command has collected a total sum of Seven hundred and ninety billion, Six hundred and thirty million, Four hundred and six thousand, Nine hundred and eighty naira, Ninety-six kobo (N790,630,406,980.96) as revenue generated between January September 2022.

This was made known  while briefing the press on the activities of Apapa command in Apapa.

He said "In the period under review, the command has collected revenue to the tune of Seven hundred and ninety billion, Six hundred and thirty million, Four hundred and six thousand, Nine hundred and eighty naira, Ninety-six kobo (N790,630,406,980.96). 

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LASTMA cautions motorist causing gridlock around filling station over Fuel Scarcity

 

LASTMA cautions motorist causing gridlock around filling station over Fuel Scarcity

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has cautioned motorists queuing up for fuel at different filling stations thereby causing serious traffic gridlock to other road users.

The General Manager,  LASTMA Mr. Bolaji Oreagba, made this known through Director Public Affairs, Mr. Adebayo Taofiq,  while deploying more Officers to monitor traffic around filling stations across the State.

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Jandor Promises To Establish Ministry For People Living With Disabilities If Elected

Jandor Promises To Establish  Ministry For People Living With Disabilities If Elected

The governorship candidate of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) Dr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran (Jandor) has promised to create a ministry to cater for People Living With Disabilities (PLWD) if elected as governor of Lagos State.

The PDP candidate who  made the promise in Badagry when he visited a coalition of artisans and PLWDs in the Agamadeh part of Badagry, in continuation of his campaign tour of Badagry, Ojo, Amuwo-Odofin, and Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Areas of the state, further stated that one of the  PLWDs will also serve  as  commissioner.

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EKITI: Gov. Biodun Oyebanji Swears - In SSG, Commissioner For Justice

 

EKITI: Gov. Biodun Oyebanji  Swears - In SSG, Commissioner For Justice
…says Ex- Gov Fayemi didn't impose any candidate on him

Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji on Monday presided over the swearing-in of the  Secretary to the State Government, Dr Habibat Adubiaro and the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dayo Apata (SAN), with a charge to them to develop new socio political skills and emotional intelligence to cope with the pressure associated with their respective offices.

The Governor who said the two officials were appointed based on their rich credentials and experiences, restated his promise to get very competent Ekiti indigenes wherever they are to man strategic positions in his administration.

He also debunked insinuations in some quarters that he was under pressure by the immediate past Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi , his wife, Erelu Bisi Fayemi and former Deputy Governor to appoint their cronies into his cabinet.

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LASBCA Pulls Down Structures Under Power Lines , Evacuates Occupants Of Distressed Building

LASBCA Pulls Down Structures Under Power Lines , Evacuates Occupants Of Distressed Building

... Seals Over Seven More Illegal Buildings

The Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) has pulled down an ongoing illegal construction built under a powerline along Church Street, off AIT Road, Alagbado, Lagos.

This was disclosed by the General Manager of the Agency, Arc Gbolahan Oki during the Agency team's routine monitoring and enforcement exercise carried out at Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos.

Oki, who was represented by the Director of Enforcement and Compliance Unit, Olusoji Olaopa during the monitoring exercise, stated the owner/developer did not only build under the powerline but that the entire structure is in violation of the building codes of the State.

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NISA to reconcile aggrieved members

NISA to reconcile aggrieved members

In its bid to build a very formidable and strong ship owners association, the Nigerian Shipowners Association, NISA, has set up a six-man reconciliation committee to bring back the aggrieved members who had left the association.

A non-member and former National President, Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, ANLCA, Prince Olayiwola Shittu and five members of the association  were  nominated into the reconciliation committee for a successful reconciliatory move.

The committee, which is chaired by Mr. Akin Akinyemi, has Engr. Emmanuel Ilori, Capt. Adewale Ishola, Barr. Paul Omolodun and Mr. Edmund Martins as members,  has 20 days to do it work as it is expected to submit its report on November 10, 2022.

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NCS: A REFORM CHAMPION OF TRADE FACILITATION UNIT COMPTROLLER ANTHONY AYALOGU DIES

NCS: A REFORM CHAMPION OF TRADE FACILITATION UNIT  COMPTROLLER ANTHONY AYALOGU DIES

The Comptroller General of Customs Col. Hameed Ali (rtd), CFR and the entire Officers and men of Nigeria Customs Service announced the death  of Comptroller Anthony Ayalogu. 

Ayalogu who until his death was the Customs Comptroller in charge of the Trade Facilitation Unit of the Service. 

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MMS WOFHOF: 6.7% UNDESIRABLE FOR WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN POLITICS

 

MMS WOFHOF: 6.7% UNDESIRABLE FOR WOMEN PARTICIPATION IN POLITICS

The global average of women participation in governance is 22.5% and the African continent rated 23.5%, while   Nigeria's 6.7% women  participation in governance is  worrisome when compared to the West African sub-regional average of 15%.

At the 2022 Hall of Fame Induction ceremony organized by MMS Woman of Fortune Hall of Fame (MMS WOFHOF) in Lagos participants expressed dissatisfaction with the poor participation of women.

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NACCIMA: FG to increase support for women in agriculture to boost productivity

NACCIMA:  FG to increase support for women in agriculture to boost productivity

Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agricultural, NACCIMA has charged the Federal Government to increase support for women in agriculture to boost  productivity across the agricultural value chain.

The National President, NACCIMA, Ide John Udeagbala, said this at  the Nigerian International Women Entrepreneur Exhibition, NIWEX, 2022 in Lagos.

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LASG REAFFIRMS BAN ON MOTORCYCLE OPERATIONS IN 10 LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF THE STATE

 

LASG REAFFIRMS BAN ON MOTORCYCLE OPERATIONS IN 10 LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREAS OF THE STATE

The Lagos State Government says its decision to put a stop to motorcycle operations in 10 Local Governments (LGs) and 15 Local Council Development Areas, (LCDAs) of the state still remain effective.

In a statement released by the Ministry of Transportation  which was duly signed by the Commissioner, Dr. Frederic Oladeinde stated that there has been peace and improvement in security in areas where the activities of Okada operations have been halted, restating that the Security Agencies are on alert to continue to enforce the ban without any compromise.

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APM TERMINALS: FAILS TO FULLY UTILISE SCANNING MACHINE AT APAPA PORT

 

APM TERMINALS: FAILS TO FULLY UTILISE SCANNING MACHINE AT APAPA PORT 

The National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders , NAGAFF, 100 percent Compliance Team has accused the management of APM Terminals of frustrating the scanning process at Apapa Port in an attempt to collect more money for demurrage charges.

At the press briefing in. Lagos the Chairman of the Compliance Team, Ibrahim Tanko, commended the Nigeria Customs Service management for making the scanning machine available and the utilisation proper.

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WAEC NIGERIA LAUNCHES DIGITAL MODE OF ACCESSING CERTIFICATE

 

WAEC NIGERIA LAUNCHES DIGITAL MODE OF ACCESSING CERTIFICATE 

... Users will be able to recover burnt, lost, and damaged certificates. Adesina

The West African Examinations Council, WAEC Nigeria in its pursuit to meeting the growing global demands, and ensuring prompt service delivery,  has announced Thursday, October 20 for the launch of the digital certificate platform.

According to a signed statement by the Acting Head, of Public Relations, WAEC Nigeria, Moyosola Adesina, the platform, a mobile and web-based application was designed specifically for candidates, individuals, institutions, and organizations to access, share, request, confirm certificates and recover forgotten WAEC candidates’ examination numbers.

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