NAGAFF DNP SEAPORT AFAM CHUKWUMA CHARGES NEW CUSTOMS MANAGEMENT TEAM ON TRADE FACILITATION

The Deputy National President Seaport of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, NAGAFF, and the Managing Director, International Supply Chain Systems Limited,  Chief Afam Chukwuma  has charged the newly constituted management team of the Nigeria Customs Service NCS, to come up with ideas that will facilitate trade in the ports and borders of the nation.

In his congratulatory message to the management team made available to journalists, Chukwuma says the business community expect much from the service especially as it concerns effective trade facilitation. 

"It is important to remember that the business community looks to you for support and guidance, and it is essential that you put their needs first. By working closely with other government agencies and stakeholders, you can ensure that trade is conducted smoothly and effectively.

"In addition, it is also important to be aware of the constant changes in global trade, such as new tariffs and regulations, and to be able to adapt and respond accordingly.

"As you begin your new roles, 

we wish you all the best and look forward to seeing the positive impact that your leadership and dedication will have on the country's trade." He said.

He added that there will be a collaboration between association and  NCS  so as to promote trade facilitation.

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All containers to go through 100% examination - New Apapa CAC

The new Area Controller, Apapa  Command of Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Mohammed Buba Auwal has declared that due process shall be given priority in cargo clearance to all containers landing and leaving Apapa Port and henceforth shall be subjected to 100% examination.

Comptroller Auwal, said he is ready for the job and would work to sustain and surpass the N1.5 trillion revenue profile of his predecessor  as he takes over the mantle of  leadership of the Command from Assistant Comptroller-General Malanta Yusuf.

“I am delighted to be here with you. We know that the Federal Government relying on officers in the Command to collect and generate revenues and stop and suppress smuggling. I am ready for the job and will sustain the tempo and improve on the level of achievements of my predecessor. We shall do our best.

“I want to urge all our Releasing Officers to ensure that no containers leave the port without undergoing 100% examination. Officers should exhibit high level of integrity in cargo releasing, so as to avoid release of cargo in error,” Auwal said, calling on all the command’s staff not to relent on their efforts and extend their cooperation to him just as they did to ACG Malanta Yusuf.

He advised  the Customs agents,  freight forwarders and other stakeholders, to always make true and proper declarations.

"There won’t be delay once cargo is declared correctly. I am not going to entertain non-compliant traders. To avoid delay, I am urging you to make proper declaration,”.

Speaking earlier, the outgoing Controller,  now Assistant Comptroller-General, ICT Modernisation, Yusuf, described Auwal as a man of due diligence. “Comptroller Mohammed Auwal is a diligent officer who upholds due process always. 

"We are now in the era of due process. I know you can do better than we have done,” said Yusuf, who took time to mention the successes attained during his 23 months in the saddle.

Yusuf, who is now in charge of ICT Modernization at the Customs headquarters in Abuja, said correct declaration is key, saying “without correct declaration N1.5 trillion collected in 2022 would not have been attained.”

Comptroller Yusuf, dedicated his achievement to officers and men of the Command and urged the new Controller to continue with the ongoing remodeling of the Command offices, especially in the enforcement and other terminal where necessary.

 Certificates of Honour were  presented to officers who have distinguished themselves at their units. 

This include the Public Relations Officer of the Command,  Abubakar Usman.

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TIN CAN ISLAND CUSTOMS COMMAND SCORE CARD FOR THE YEAR 2022

TIN CAN ISLAND CUSTOMS COMMAND SCORE CARD FOR THE YEAR 2022

... Rakes in  574Billion

... Make 38 seizures 

... Initial Challenges of VIN reduced

Comptroller AAS OLOYEDE, C.A.C Tin Can Island Customs Command

The Customs Area Controller, Tin Can Island Customs Command, Comptroller AAS Oloyede while addressing the journalists today in Lagos said Tin Can Island Customs Command ended the year, January to December 2022 with modest achievements in the Areas of Revenue Generation, Trade Facilitation, Enforcement/Anti-smuggling.

Oloyede  said in the area of revenue generation, "the command collected  a total of Five Hundred and Seventy-Four Billion, Two Hundred and Ninety Million, Two Hundred and Ten Thousand, Five Hundred and Ninety-Nine Naira, Thirty-Eight Kobo only (N574,290,210,599.38) between January to December, 2022.

"This figure when compared to the Four Hundred and Ninety-Three Billion, Six Hundred and Eighty-Two Million, Three Hundred and Sixty-Nine Thousand, Two Hundred and Sixty-Four Naira, Thirty-Five Kobo (N493,682,369,264.35) collected in 2021 indicated an increase of Eighty Billion, Six Hundred and Seven Million, Eight Hundred and Forty-One Thousand, Three Hundred and Thirty-Five Naira, Three Kobo (N80,607,841,335.03).

This, he said  "represents a percentage increase of 16.33% over the previous year's revenue collection and this feat could be attributed to the constant rejiging of the existing measures geared towards sustaining the Command's Revenue profile as well as utilization of some disruptive strategic measures such as periodic capacity building, reshuffling and redeployment of officers using the SWOT analysis, implementation of the VIN Valuation, Automation of the 846 procedure, re-introduction of the NIIT after the deployment of a Non-Intrusive Inspection Technology Equipment to the Command, Proper Profiling, System Audit, Proper recheck or Examination and detailed but clearly inputed Inspection Acts. 

Comptroller Oloyede said in order to sniff out improper declarations as well as offending items the command  increased surveillance on declarations and   "a total of thirty-eight (38) seizures with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of One Billion, Eight Hundred and Forty-Six Million, Three Hundred and Seventy-Two Thousand, Eighty-Three Naira, Fifty Kobo only (1,846,372,083.50)".

"These seizures comprise of 763pkgs of Colarado (Cannabis Sativa) weighing 345.1kg with a street market value of Seven Hundred and Fourteen Million, Six Hundred Thousand Naira (N714,600,000.00) only as given by the NDLEA, 5 x 40 Containers of used Motor Tyre (5060 pieces), 1,150 Bales of second hand clothings, 1,190 Cartons of 20per Cartons of Potassuem Bromate and Baking Powder, 11,392 Cartons of 1200 per Carton Armcol Injection Chloroquine Phosphate 322.5mg.5ml (IV and IM), 206,000 pieces of finished matchets, 1383 cartons of 50 rolls per carton of cigarettes, 650 cartons of 50 pieces per carton of New Ladies Shoes, 2,666 pieces in 36 pallets of New Starter Ex-Premium Inverter Battery, 1980 cartons of Assorted Non-Alcoholic Beverages and 1048 Cartons of Tilda Basmatic Rice, others include 2594 pieces of Ammunition and 20 pieces of Arms comprising of 1 Pistol with 611090 (S/W) model JCP 40mm, 1 Used Co2 Air Pistol with accessories Cal 117(4.5m)BM, 1 Marksman repeater pistol, 6 Mace pepper gun and 10 suspected arms of various Types".

This seizure record when compared with the 2021 record of twenty-seven (27) seizures with a DN of six hundred and seven million, two hundred and sixty-seven thousand, six hundred and seventeen naira (N607,267,617.00) only.

This shows an increase of eleven (11) seizures and one billion, two hundred and thirty-nine million, one hundred and four thousand, four hundred and sixty-six naira, fifty kobo only  (N1,239,104,466.50). 

He said in the year under review,  on export and import  "the command recorded significant increase in the FOB of Exports to the tune of $589,696,648 (#242,365,322,333.00) as against the $496,075,796 (141,985,109,159.00) recorded in the year 2021 which  represents an improvement on the FOB by 34.4% and this increase is attributed to the high quality and value of the exported commodities".

"However, the Export report shows a decrease in Tonnage of Export from 1,723,986.8 in 2021 to 336,179.5 in 2022. The decrease in tonnage could be connected to current Government Fiscal Policy which prohibited the export of wood and wood products as well as the Global unrests with its concomitant Economic challenges.

"The increase in DPV rate could be associated with increased surveillance and intensified anti-smuggling drive, high value of seized items and the Naira-Dollar depreciation which leads to high exchange rate on imported items.

On the implementation of VIN Valuation, he said the command has "simplified and facilitated the Customs Clearance Process of Legitimately imported vehicles by providing a uniform, fair and neutral value across board on vehicles with identical brands, model and year of manufacture in line with the provisions of Article VII of the General Agreement on Tarifs and Trade (GATT) of 1994. 

"The VIN Valuation Platform helped the Command to achieve expedited Clearance Process due to predictability of value-assessment, increased Revenue Generation, improved ease of doing business as well as generation of accurate statistics for the Federal Government.

"It is pertinent to mention that most of the initial challenges at the early stages of implementation have been reduced to the barest minimum.

Comptroller Oloyede added that expectations of the command for the 2023  includes:  improved Revenue Profile, Facilitation of Legitimate Trade amongst others. 

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CRFFN APPOINTS CHINYERE URONTA AS ACTING REGISTRAR...Rejects Nwokohu reelection bid

CRFFN APPOINTS CHINYERE URONTA AS ACTING REGISTRAR

...Rejects Nwokohu reelection bid

The Council for the Registration of Freight forwarding Practice in Nigeria, CRFFN,  has appointed  Mrs. Chinyere Uromta, the Director of Regulations and Enforcement  and rejected the  re-election bid of the  Mr. Sam Nwakohu, outgoing Registrar of the Council, 

 Mrs. Chinyere Uromta, the Director of Regulations and Enforcement was appointed at the emergency meeting of the council today  at its Abuja liaison office as an acting Registrar.

The outgoing registrar, last year, submitted a letter to the council requesting to be considered for a second term s at the his position.

The Chairman of the Council, Alhaji Abubakar Tsanni set up an ad-hoc committee, headed by Efeanyi Isikaku, to look into the request of Nwakohu and submit its report in two weeks.

 following the completion of its assignment and submission of its report, the council, therefore, convened today, Thursday in Abuja to deliberate on the next line of action to be taken in respect of the committee’s recommendations.

” The AdHoc committee made important recommendations with reference to the provisions of Public Service Rules as well as the council’s Act.

“The committee however, recommended that in order to avoid a vacuum after the expiration of the Registrar’s tenure, the council shall start making arrangements for a handover of the Registrar’s office to the most senior management staff of the council.

The decision of the council to reject the reelection bid of the embattled Registrar was based on the recommendations of its ad hoc committee to look into the request of Nwakohu for a second term tenure.

According to the communique made available to the press,  "The council  recommended  that the committee on appointment, promotion and discipline to start making preparations for reappointment or appointment of substantive Registrar”  according to Muftahu Ya’u, the chairman Committee on Media and Publicity of the governing council,  

 “Finally, the Council’s Chairman soon after the adoption, approval, and ratification of the committee’s recommendations by members of the council directed the followings:
that arrangement for the Registrar’s handover to Mrs. Chinyere Uromta  Director, Regulations and Enforcement on 31st of January 2023.

“That committee on Appointment Promotion and Discipline go ahead to start preparations for reappointment/appointment of a new Registrar” the head of media and publicity of the council concluded.

It could be recalled that soon after Nwakohu made his ambition known to succeed himself as the Registrar of the council, he went on a lobbying spree, trying to woo the council members to buy into his ambition.

“There was no way he could have succeeded in his obnoxious bid to succeed himself.

Firstly, it was a general consensus among the freight forwarding confraternity that Nwakohu failed woefully as the registrar.

"He is incompetent, arrogant and someone not ready to learn,” 

“Also, several allegations of financial sleaze against him have not been cleared.

“Similarly, the council members were not happy at the way Nwakohu handled the purchase of the CRFFN Abuja liaison office which cost they felt was inflated. 

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Nigeria, Niger Republic signs MoU on Rail Project

Nigeria, Niger Republic signs MoU on Rail Project

The Federal Government has stated that the  Nigeria-Niger Republic rail line,will facilitate the realization of the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement which Nigeria and Niger Republic are signatories, reaffirming that the project will boost trade and other socio-economic interactions between both countries and in the continent.

Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Jaji Sambo, while signing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) stated this in Abuja.

The Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Jaji Sambo signed for Nigeria while the Minister of Transportation of the Republic of Niger, Alma Oumarou signed for his country.

Sambo noted that the rail line, which will start from Kano State in Nigeria and end at Maradi in Niger Republic, will facilitate the realization of the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement which Nigeria and Niger Republic are signatories.

“I am aware that people have blood relationships across borders so the project will expand the historical and cultural relationship between the people of Nigeria and those of the Niger Republic. The project is also very important in enhancing inter-nation and continental trade”, the Minister added.

He said a Technical Committee would be set up within seven days in accordance with Article 3 of the MoU, adding that nomination of members and inauguration of the Technical Committee would be concluded by the first week of February 2023.

According to him, after their inauguration, the Technical Committee will take charge of the facilitation and implementation of the project.

The Minister of Transportation of the Republic of Niger, Alma Oumarou on his part said that the rail project will promote inter-nation as well as continental trade, strengthen cultural ties between the two countries and create jobs.

The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Transportation, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, added  that the signing of the MoU would expedite the completion of the project. which has been ongoing on the Kano-Maradi rail line for the past two years,.

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NAGAFF CHARGES NEWLY PROMOTED COMPTROLLERS TO UPHOLD PROFESSIONALISM

National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders NAGAFF has charged the newly promoted Customs Controllers  to uphold professionalism in the execution of their duties. 

The President, NAGAFF, Chief Tochukwu Ezisi stated that as leaders in the customs management team, they must set an example for others to follow and lead by example in terms of integrity, accountability, and efficiency.

In his word "Customs Controllers play a vital role in the smooth running of the customs department and ensuring that trade is conducted in a fair and orderly manner. In order to effectively carry out their duties, they must possess a high level of professionalism and be able to make sound decisions that are in the best interest of the country." 

He urged the Controllers to adapt and respond accordingly  to the  latest developments in global trade, including new tariffs and regulations. And work closely with other government agencies and stakeholders to ensure that trade is conducted smoothly and effectively.

The NAGAFF President however congratulated the newly constituted Management team and the promoted Customs Controllers all the best in their new roles and assured them NAGAFF'S support as they work to uphold professionalism and facilitate trade in the country.

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PTML Customs Command Generates 229 Billion Revenue In 2022

PTML Customs Command Generates 229 Billion Revenue In 2022

The Ports and Terminal Multiservice Limited, PTML,  Customs Command of Nigeria Customs Service, has recorded the sum of  Two hundred and twenty-nine billion, four hundred and seventy-three million nine hundred and twelve thousand nine hundred and seventy- six naira, ninety- seven kobo. (229,473,912,976,97) revenue in the 2022.

According to the Ag. Area Controller, Comptroller SULEIMAN BOMAI, at the press briefing today in Lagos, this he said  represents about Ninety-six percent of the revenue target of Two hundred and thirty eight billion, two hundred and twenty four million, nine hundred and twenty thousand, thirty-eight naira, eighty-eight kobo.

Bomai said  this an increase of Five billion, three million, seven hundred and ninety-nine thousand, two hundred and forty-three naira only (N5,003,799,243.00) over the revenue for the year 2021 which was Two hundred and twenty-four billion, four hundred and seventy million, one hundred and thirteen thousand, seven hundred and thirty- three naira (N224,470,113,733.00) only.

Comptroller Bomai stated that "The Command handled export goods on commodities such as cocoa, sesame seeds, palm oil and other food items with a total tonnage of about one hundred and seventy-eight thousand, five hundred and seventy step point thirteen, (178,572.13) metric tons, with a total Free on Board (FOB) value of Two hundred and forty-nine million, four hundred and ninety thousand, six hundred and four point fifty-two (USD), ($249,419,604.52) only in the year 2022.

"Compare to the year 2021, with the total tonnage of about One hundred and forty-seven thousand, five hundred and seventy-eight, point eleven, (147,578.11) metric tons, with a total Free on Board (FOB) value of One billion, four hundred and fifty-two million, eight hundred and twenty- one thousand, nine hundred and twenty-one point fifty (USD),

He said In the area of anti-smuggling activities, the Command made some seizures in the year under review as a  result of diligent hundred percent cargo examination and deployment of intelligence, we uncovered attempts to smuggle arms and ammunition into the country concealed in imported vehicles.

"In the period under review, four seizures were recorded which include:  1X40ft container containing three vehicles used to conceal two fire arms. One used Ford Edge containing Fire Arm and thirty rounds of live cartridges,  One used Toyota sienna containing fire arm, One used Toyota corolla containing ninety rounds of live ammunition.

"A total of 6 suspects were arrested in connection with these seizures

and have been granted administrative bail.

On trade facilitation a "Total duty paid value of Thirty-six million, three hundred and sixteen thousand, one hundred and fifty-five naira only (#36,316,155.00) were made

Bomai stated that "within the period under review, the command sustained its average of four hour clearance time of vehicle for compliant traders. An efficient and accessible dispute resolution committee has been put in place to regularly brief the Customs Area Controller with a view to quickly resolving all trade disputes.

"The dispute resolution Committee in the Command was strengthened last year under my watch with experienced and knowledgeable officers.

"I personally monitor transactions and interventions by various units daily to sustain our standard of ease of doing business and trade facilitation

"The Command has continued to maintain a cordial relationship with the various government agencies like the Nigeria police, NDLEA, NAFDAC, SON, NESREA, NAQS, e.t.c. 

"Aside initial enlightenment done on the VIN valuation, PTML Command has been doing a lot of engagement on the issue to address the trade facilitation associated with standard and non-standard VIN.

"The various interventions approved by headquarters on the issue are diligently being implemented in the command. The innovation to automate clearance of non-standard VIN and use of code 846 for clearance is being applied too. Gradually, our stakeholders are showing understanding.

"Within the period under review, we had very robust and productive engagements with other agencies of government where we shared ideas and pursued government objectives without compromising our respective mandates as enshrined in our enabling laws.

"We met from time to time to share intelligence, prevent and detect crimes in the national interest and on our part as NCS we prevented revenue loss

Comptroller Bomai however said that the command recorded some challenges which are: Lack of scanner which will  reduce the issue of one hundred percent (100%) physical examination of containerized cargo and inadequate Space within the Command.

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NRC explains reason for train delay on Abuja-Kaduna train

NRC explains reason for train delay on Abuja-Kaduna train 

The Nigerian Railway Corporation, NRC, has apologised to passengers for the delay in rendering train services to passengers along the Abuja-Kaduna train route on Monday.

Mr Pascal Nnorli, Manager, Abuja-Kaduna Train Service, AKTS, in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja on Monday, said the delay was due to a shortage in the supply of diesel.

“The management of the NRC sincerely apologises to our esteemed customers who may have experienced delay in our Abuja-Kaduna train service on Monday, Jan. 23.

“The delay was caused by the supply of diesel/AGO, which fell short of the specification required to operate our rolling stock, which was out rightly rejected after statutory laboratory test.

“The compulsory laboratory test is carried out on all liquid that is used on the rolling stock, locomotives inclusive to ensure that the right specifications are utilised,’’ Nnorli said.

The manager thanked its passengers for continued patronage and pledged the commitment of the corporation for better services going forward

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Transportation Minister Pays Tribute and Celebrates Otunba Kunle Folarin

Transportation Minister Pays Tribute and Celebrates Otunba Kunle Folarin
...I will ensure they are brought to fruition - Sambo

Honourable Minister Of Transportation, Mu’azu Jaji Sambo has described the late Otunba Olakunle Folarin Sunday as a Maritime Repository of Knowledge.

He  eulogised the late Otunba Folarin during a night of tribute in honour of the maritime icon at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos.

While paying tribute to Otunba Olakunle Folarin, recalled their last meeting where the late icon spoke on several interventions of President Muhammadu Buhari’s interventions in the maritime sector.

He said the late maritime icon spoke with experience and sincerity of purpose while making valid suggestions.

“We are gathered here today in memory and honour of our dear colleague Otunba Olakunle Afolarain. The nation has lost a maritime repository of knowledge, an experienced maritime practitioner, a voice of the ideal, a highly cerebral gentleman and most importantly, a friend.

“Death has taken away a genuinely warm individual, a loving husband, and a father and deprived so many others, including us all, of a good friend.

“While we mourn the loss of our dear friend, we pay tribute and celebrate a life that was well lived. A life committed to excellence and best practices in the country’s maritime sector,” he said.

“I remembered vividly his last meeting in my office, sitting opposite me as he speaks with glee on the numerous intervention that President Muhammadu Buhari’s led administration can on a short-term introduce to the maritime sector.

“He spoke from a depth of conviction, years of experience and sincerity of purpose. His passion was infectious, his conviction was palpable, his banters were endearing, and his suggestions were valid,” he said.

Sambo said a lot was in the pipeline through the ingenuity of the intellectual doyen that will further enhance the dynamics of operation in the country’s maritime sector, and in honour of his memory,

“I will ensure they are brought to fruition and also include those I cannot achieve in the handover note to my successor. Every moment of his life was dedicated to improving the maritime sector, either in passing down knowledge or being a constructive critic to ensure the ideals are upheld in the sector. He served well and lived well.

“Life can be fleeting. But a life lived to the fullest stays in fond memories. Otunba through his decorum and grace endeared himself to many.

“May his legacies endure, may his eternal voyage to the undying land be smooth, and may the Almighty Allah repose his soul and grant the family he left behind the fortitude to bear the loss.

“Seneca, the wise man of old once said, “ if one does not know to which port one is sailing, no wind is favourable” we should live daily with the knowledge of life’s brevity and daily do good. When the tales of our lives are told in the days to come, they will be of honour, sincerity and triumph.

“May Otunba’s memory be blessed. God bless the seeds he left behind, God bless the Maritime industry and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.

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CUSTOMS: Reshuffles Area Comptrollers

CUSTOMS: Reshuffles Area Comptrollers

Nigeria Customs Service has reshuffles the Area Comptrollers as  part of  overall promotion at its Area Commands.

The spokesman of the service, Comptroller Timi Bomodi has now been promoted to head the Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) in Lagos, while anti-smuggling Czar; Comptroller Dera Nnadi now heads Seme Area Command.

Comptroller Auwal Mohammed from Port Harcourt Area 2 command has been assigned to fill-in the very big shoes pulled down at Apapa Command by Comptroller Yusuf Ibrahim Malanta who was the highest revenue mobilizer in the history of the service.

Other Comptrollers are; Compt OA Salefu for Western Marine Command Lagos, Compt AM Ibrahim for PTML Terminal Lagos and Compt M.S Yusuf for the Muritala Muhammed Airport command in Lagos.

Compt CD Wada now heads Port Harcourt Area1 command, while M.I Jalo heads Federal Operations Unit Zone B.
B. Mohammed is heading Lillypond command in Lagos.

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LASWA: Targets zero waterways accident in 2023 — GM

 

LASWA:  Targets zero waterways accident in 2023 — GM

The General Manager, Lagos Waterways Authority, LASWA, Mr.  Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, has vowed to improve on safety on waterways to enable the government to achieve zero accident in 2023., 

He made this known at his birthday ceremony in Lagos.

He said that only two accidents happened on Lagos Waterways in 2022 but regretted that lives were lost during the incidents.

He stated said that for the first time, a boat captain was sentenced to life imprisonment due to reckless operation which resulted in loss of lives of about 18 passengers.

He said that the authority would strengthen its regulations and standards to prevent any mishap in 2023, and enhance partnership with the federal government.

“With the establishment of Command and Control Centre which we now have, we can easily monitor, in addition to the extra water guard that we now have at our other locations.

“We have established strategic partnership to be able to ensure we have safe waterways,” he said.

Emmanuel said that the agency intended to optimise on the existing infrastructure such as jetties and terminals.

He said that Ikorodu and Badore terminals were coming up, and urged Lagos residents to  expect newer boats on the waterways.

He affirmed that the Lagos State Government had established 20 jetties and built six standard terminals across the state that were functioning effectively.

Emmanuel attributed  his success as he was celebrating his 40th birthday to God, good people, and thanked the Lagos State Government for giving him opportunity to serve and help others.

“Many people have helped me and I have also helped people as well; I will continue to help.

“I’m looking forward to better years ahead than what has been achieved. I wish to see greater impact made in the lives of people, I wish to see a better society.”

He said that LASWA was working to improve the services and operations of its manpower to build passenger confidence on water transportation.

The LASWA boss said that the state government’s priority was to achieve seamless operations in transportation which was the first letter in the THEMES Agenda of the Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led administration.

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Former CGC Strike Force Coordinator, Comptroller Musa Yusuf Retires

Former CGC Strike Force Coordinator, Comptroller Musa Yusuf Retires 

After putting in a meritorious service for his fatherland, the immediate past Coordinator, CGC Strike Force Zone ‘C’, Comptroller Musa Yusuf, has bowed out of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, with  an enviable rank of Comptroller.

Yusuf was among the newly promoted Comptrollers decorated this week at the Service Headquarters, Abuja.

The Yobe State born senior Customs officer attended St. Paul’s Primary School and Government Secondary School, both in Yobe. He later went to the School of Basic Studies, Ahmadu Bello University, ABU, Zaria. Thereafter, young Yusuf proceeded to same university to study Architecture and bagged a Bsc and MSc in the process.

He worked at the Niger Command’s Operation unit as the OC Patrol and later moved to the Kebbi command as the OC ACG’s Squad.

The retired Comptroller was later moved to the Kastina Command and served as the OC Roving and Monitoring Team.

When moved to Lagos, Yusuf worked at Lilypond as OC Bonding and Bulk Cargo seats and from there to the EI&I department of the Abuja

headquarters.

Other areas he worked  as an officer includes: FOU Zone D; FOU Bauchi, D-Operations; Zone A, Operations; Port Harcourt Area 1 command as NPA 2IC, Joe-Eboje Bonded Terminal and Zone B.

He was part of the team that hatched a special operation to stop the flow of parboiled rice in Lagos and its environs during the administration of late CGC Dikko Abdullahi Inde.

Yusuf also served as Special Assistant on Anti-Rice Smuggling and later worked at the Command and Staff College, Gwagwalanda, Abuja, as the Principal Staff Officer, PSO, among others.

His last Area Command posting was Apapa, where he served as the DC Enforcement before he retired from the Abuja Headquarters.

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WIMAJ Congratulates Josephine Moltok on new appointment as NPA Image Maker

WIMAJ Congratulates Josephine Moltok on new appointment as NPA Image Maker

 

 

Women in Maritime Journalism,  WIMAJ, a non-governmental organisation protecting the interest of females in the specialised reportage of the maritime sector has congratulated Mrs. Josephine Moltok on her recent appointment as the General Manager, GM, Corporate and Strategic Communications, C&SC of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

 

According to a press statement released on WIMAJ's platform ​ and signed by the group’s President, Ezinne Azunna commended the Managing Director of NPA, Mr. Mohammed Bello-Koko for finding Moltok, a PR and Communications Expert worthy of such an important position.

 

WIMAJ  said the appointment of Moltok is well deserved and will seamlessly enhance the actualisation of the Authority’s corporate objectives.

 

"Looking at her previous contributions to the C&SC department, the number of years she has put in at various ports, her relationship with the media and other stakeholders, her academic qualifications, her current appointment is merited.

 

“Recall that Mrs Moltok worked for some years at the Authority’s London Office, at the defunct Western Zone of NPA in Apapa Lagos, Calabar Port, Abuja Office, the Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo) Port among several departments.

 

 

“As women in the maritime media, we are indeed proud of Mrs Moltok and we are ready to work with her", WIMAJ statement read.

 

Mrs. Moltok who assumes office immediately has her first degree, B.A,  in Theatre Arts from University of Jos and a Master’s degree in Mass Communication from the prestigious University of Lagos. She is also a member of Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, NIPR.

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NIMASA REASSURES NISA OF EFFECTIVE DISBURSEMENT OF CVFF

NIMASA REASSURES NISA OF EFFECTIVE DISBURSEMENT OF CVFF

The Management of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA has continued with constant stakeholders’ consultation and engagements with a view to ensuring effective communication to attain seamless disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund CVFF as approved by President Muhammadu Buhari.

NIMASA management led by its Director General, Dr. Bashir Jamoh held a meeting with the CVFF Steering Committee of the Nigerian Indigenous Shipowners’ Association NISA led by its Chairman Dr. Edward Sohwo.

Dr. Jamoh  once again reassure the indigenous shipowners of the commitment of the agency under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Transport to implement the Presidential approval for the disbursement of the fund.

Federal Government through the Federal Ministry of Transport recently shortlisted five commercial banks comprising Union, Zenith, Polaris, UBA and Jaiz Bank to act as Primary Lending Institutions for the disbursement of the 20-year old fund. of N16billion and $350million, which has accrued into CVFF accounts,  bringing it to a total of N261billion.

 

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NPA appoints Josephine Moltok as its new General Manager

NPA appoints Josephine Moltok as its new General Manager

The management of the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, has appointed Mrs Josephine Moltok as the new General Manager, GM, Corporate and Strategic Communications,  C&SC.

Moltok holds a B.A degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Jos and an

MSc in Mass Communication from the University of Lagos. Moltok is a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).

By her appointment, industry watchers have again hailed the Managing Director, Mallam Mohammed Bello-Koko, for sticking to professionalism by ensuring that the department is handled by well-trained in-house personnel.

They see this as a clear departure from the ugly tradition established by his predecessors of picking Tom, Dick and Harry from other departments to head a place that is endowed with qualified media and Public Relations (PR) handlers.

Bello-Koko broke the jinx when he appointed Chief Ibrahim Nasiru, who retired last October, as the GM of the unit.

Moltok, an old war horse in media and PR management, was for many years, the NPA’s Head of the Overseas Liaison Office in London. She returned to Nigeria last year to head the Administration Division of the Authority as its GM from where she was moved to the new position.

She hails from Plateau State, worked as a Public Relations Officer, PRO, in the defunct Western Zone of NPA in Apapa and later moved to the Calabar Port.

Moltok who also worked at the agency’s defunct head office in Abuja after which she came to serve at the former Roll-On Roll-Off- RoRo Port in Tin Can, Lagos, even as she equally headed the PR Unit of the Lagos Port Complex, LPC, Apapa.

 She served as the National Assembly Liaison Officer of NPA in the Abuja liaison office where she later became the Assistant General Manager (AGM).

At her promotion to a General Manager, Moltok headed the Servicom Division before moving to the London office.

Mrs Moltok took over on Tuesday, from Mrs Oluyemisi Oyinlola, a lawyer, who held the office for barely one month.

Oyinlola has returned to her former duty post as the GM Legal Services/Board. For the brief period she held sway at the C&SC, the staff of the department saw her as one who not only hit the ground running but passionate and full of compassion for them and stakeholders, including the few journalists that came her way.

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2022 Revenue : Apapa Customs generates 1trn, Seizes 14.4 worth of Contrabands, Arrests 60 Suspects

2022 Revenue : Apapa Customs generates 1trn,  Seizes 14.4 worth of Contrabands, Arrests 60 Suspects

The Apapa Area 1 Command of Nigeria Customd Service,  with all setbacks in trade facilitation of the year 2021 has collected revenue to the tune of One trillion, twenty-two billion, five hundred and thirty million, five hundred and twenty-three thousand, six hundred and ninety- nine naira, four kobo (N1,022,530,523,699.4) as revenue for the year 2022.

This is 16.07% higher than the Eight hundred and seventy billion, three hundred and eighty-eight million, three hundred and forty thousand, six hundred and fifty naira, sixty-five kobo (N870,388,340,650.65) collected in 2021.

The Controller of the Command, Comptroller Malanta Ibrahim Yusuf said this during the end of the Year 2022 press briefing in Apapa, Lagos.

"It will be recall that from the second quarter of last year, the industry has experienced a backdrop in trade facilitation by fluctuation in exchange rate and a sharp drop in the purchasing power by the consumers which made trade unpredictable

"This feat was made possible because of our officers and men resilience in blocking revenue leakages and ensuring that all unpaid declarations and unutilised PAARS has been traced and accounted to the federal government coffers"Malanta said.

On trade facilitation, Comptroller Malanta said "The central concern of this administration is to deploy technology to automate our processes and procedures to maintain a feat between trade facilitation, revenue generation and security of the nation

"As a lead agency in trade facilitation, we are constantly informed in reinventing our strategy and share our vision with other agencies in the port, through connectivity and joint one-stop boarding of vessels and examination of cargo. 

He said "The Command has intensified its anti-smuggling operations through leveraging on as technological infrastructure to ensure that illicit trade which pose threat to the national security and wellbeing of the society are being detected and controlled from finding their way to our society. 

"The Command has strived to move beyond its potentials to ensure synergy and collatoration with other stakeholders in the port to address the menace of it importation.

Comptroller Malanta disclosed that a total number of One hundred and fifty-seven (157) containers with a duty paid value (DPV) of N14.4 billion were seized

as against one hundred and two (102) containers with DPV of N31.8 billion seized in the year 2021. 

"Our record shows that fake and prohibited drugs without necessary NAFDAC certification and overdose drugs of Tramadol top the list of seizures made last year. Other items include codesse syrup, foreign parboiled rice, vegetable of processed/unprocessed wood, used clothing, etc.

"So far, a total number of 60 suspects were arrested in connection with"

He added that "On export trade, in line with the Federal Government diversification of the economy in non-oil export, the command recorded a total of $6.5 million free onboard (FOB) value on a naira equivalent of N28.2 bilen of non- oil commodities with a total tonnage of 64 million Metric tonnes exported through Apapa port.

"Items exported through Apapa Port last year 2022 include steel bars, agricultural produce such hibiscus, sesame seeds, cocoa, cashew nut, ginger, soya beans, and mineral products.

He said that the command has promoted a culture of regular stakeholder engagement with bonded terminal operators, importers,, exporters, freight forwarders, Icensed customs agents, shipping companies, and others.

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WABOTAN Creates N10million Multipurpose Corporative Society for Boat Operators

WABOTAN Creates N10million Multipurpose Corporative Society for Boat Operators

...to concretize the association’s organogram

The Waterfront Boat Owners and Transporters Association, WABOTAN,, has created a Multipurpose Corporative Society for it’s members in order to ameliorate their financial challenges in boat operations, even as the association in Apapa Lagos inaugurated it’s Lagos State executives to run all affairs of WABOTAN as it concerns the state.

According to the National President of WABOTAN, Mr. Tope Fajemirokun,  at the inauguration ceremony, stated that the Multipurpose Corporative Society has been officially inaugurated by the Lagos State Government two months ago., the least share a member can buy to join the Multipurpose Corporative Society is N25,000. 

“In an association, you cannot just be collecting money from your members, on the state level, they would ask you one question, what is your capacity?

He said the corporative society is coming up for us to generate more money and for our members to make more money.

“If you want to buy a Yamaha engine for your boat now, it is very expensive, but with this Corporate Society, you can run to the association to borrow money, use it for that purpose and pay back later, these are some of our plans.

“The Lagos State Corporative Society has inaugurated us two months ago. Our corporative executives are undergoing training, by Friday, they should be rounding up. This is to help out members, the least share a member can buy is N25,000”

According to the association, the capital share is also expandable if the N10million is exhausted.

The WABOTAN Lagos State newly inaugurated executives includes Comrade Doubrah Jacob as State Chairman, Abraham Mesu as Vice Chairman, State Secretary is Ganiyu Jinadu.

Others are; Aiyeyemi Omosuyi as State Assistant Secretary, Oluwaseyi Samuel as State Treasurer, William Emasoga as State Financial Secretary, the State Public Relations Officer is Ramon Babatunde, while the Provost is Daniel Abayo.

Fajemirokun said the step is necessary in order to concretize the association’s organogram.

“In this association, we have an organogram where we have the BOT, National, States and Zones. We are just coming up, the BOT has inaugurated the National body, so, today the National body is also inaugurating the state body so that they can carryout state activities, the National body cannot be everywhere, the State executives have to control matters concerning the state.

“We expect them to work closely with the Lagos State Government, regulators and boat operators at their own state level and their must not be any conflict of interest. As National President, I cannot be doing the work of state executives.

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NSC, UASC TO HOST SHIPPERS ACROSS THE CONTINENT ON SHIPPERS DAY

NSC, UASC TO HOST SHIPPERS ACROSS THE CONTINENT ON SHIPPERS DAY 

The Nigerian Shipper’s Council, NSC,  in collaboration with the Union of African Shippers’ Council, UASC, are to converge.

Shippers from across the continent  in Lagos between January 16 and 18, 2023 for African Shippers Day.

The event which is holding under the auspices of the Federal Ministry of Transportation is expected to be declared open by President Mohammadu Buhari at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The theme of the seminar according to the organisers is “African Continental Free Trade Agreement, AfCFTA : A veritable platform for African Shippers to mainstream into global trade”.

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Nigeria To End Fuel Importation By 2024 – FG

Nigeria To End Fuel Importation By 2024 – FG

The Federal Government has said that  by the first Quarter of 2024 Nigeria will put an end to the importation of petroleum products into the country.

The Minister of State  Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, stated this at the resumption of the ”PM Administration Scorecard Series (2015-2023) ” organised by the Ministry of Information and Culture.

He said by the first quarter of 2024 the rehabilitation of the Port-Harcourt refinery would be partly completed while the 650,000 barrel per day, bpd, capacity Dangote Refinery would also be on stream.

The scorecard series inaugurated Oct. 18, 2022, and has featured 16 Minister’s was meant to showcase the achievements of the Buhari administration.

While presenting the scorecard of his ministry, Sylva specifically said that the 60,000 bpd capacity refinery within the Port-Harcourt Refinery complex would be ready for production by Quarter one of 2024.

The Minister added that the Dangote Refinery, the largest single-train refinery in the world with investment of over 25 billion US dollars would also be on stream before the end of 2023 in addition to several modular refineries projects in the country.

He therefore assured that with the combined production of the Port-Harcourt refinery, Dangote refinery and the modular refineries, Nigeria would end importation of petroleum products into the country

The Minister disclosed that to ensure local  supply of the productions by the private refineries the Federal Government deliberately took 20 per cent equity stake in the Dangote Refinery.

Equally, the minister said the Federal Government took 30 per cent equity stake in each of the 5000bpd WalterSmith modular refinery in Ibigwe, Imo state and 10,000 bpd Duport Modular Refinery in Edo state among others.

He said that the government is currently addressing the challenge of access to crude oil being faced by the modular refineries.

The minister also reiterated the position of the Federal Government that subsidy regime was no longer sustainable.

According to him, the huge fund being spent on subsidy could be deployed to other developmental projects that would impact positively on many Nigerians.

He added that the removal of subsidy would attract more investment into the petroleum sector as many private people would be willing to invest in building refineries.

 

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WMUN PRESIDENT GENERAL TO CONTEST 2023 NLC ELECTION

WMUN PRESIDENT GENERAL TO CONTEST 2023 NLC ELECTION

The President General of Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria MWUN Comrade Adewale Adeyanju has been nominated to contest for the post of Deputy National President of the Nigerian Labour Congress,NLC, election in February 2023. 

According to the press statement issued by the union’s media Relations Officer, Comrade Oniha Erazua, the election will hold during the Congress 13th National Delegate Conference scheduled for 7th and 8th of February 2023. 

Adeyanju who will be contesting  with Comrade Audi Titus Amba from the Nigerian Union of Teachers, NUT, and Comrade Kabiru Ado Sanni from the Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria,  MHWUN 

The position of the NLC President is however being contested unopposed by Comrade Joseph Ajaero from the National Union of Electricity Employees, NUEE.

In March 2021, Comrade Adeyanju was re-elected for a four-year second term in office during the union’s delegates conference, 

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CUSTOMS: FOU ZONE 'A' SEIZES 13.9BN SMUGGLED ITEMS... LOSES FOUR OFFICERS

:  FOU ZONE 'A' SEIZES 13.9BN SMUGGLED ITEMS

... LOSES FOUR OFFICERS

Federal Operations Unit, Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, today said  in 2022  its unit prosecuted its core mandates in the six states of the South-West namely: Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti and Ondo states; without fear or favour and with a total seizure of smuggled items worth N13,908,575,436.5.

While addressing pressmen today in Lagos to mark  it’s end of the year media briefing, the Acting Controller of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Comptroller Hussein Ejibunu explained that his Unit prevented loss of government revenue as it’s assigned position of being a layer of check uncovered attempts at evading duties.

Ejibunu said “We recovered the discovered shortfalls through Issuance of demand notices (DN).

“We did all these at the expense of our lives placing national interest ahead of any narrow or personal gain. It is sad to note that some of our officers paid the supreme price last year when they got killed by smugglers. For us, they are the heroes of the anti-smuggling battle and they will never be forgotten.

“In the area of anti-smuggling, from January 1 to December 31 2022, we made a total seizure of smuggled items worth a duty paid value of N13,908,575,436.5.

“Aside protecting the national economy, some of the seizures achieved protection of citizens’ health because dangerous, expired and harmful products were prevented from being smuggled into the country.

“In terms of volume, rice topped the list of our seizures. We seized 93,102 by 50kg which amounts to about 156 trailer loads of rice. Even our newly constructed warehouse had an overflow of seized rice.

"A total number of 108 automobiles comprising of trucks, tankers, cars and motorcycles were seized either as smuggled items or means of conveyance of smuggled items.

"Illicit drugs seized are, 7,354 kg and 4,975 tablets of Cannabis sativa, 233 cartons by 225 milligrams, and 82 packs by 225 milligrams of Tramadol. It is pertinent to remind us that these hard drugs fuel crime and insecurity.

“For petroleum products, this Unit seized 656,414 liters of premium motor spirit (PMS); that is, about 20 tanker loads of fuel from economic saboteurs who seek to impoverish the majority of our country people by taking out petrol subsidized for citizens’ benefit to be sold in other countries".

"We arrested 176 smuggling suspects last year, secured 7 convictions. 14 were charged to court and are at various stages of investigation and prosecution. Seven suspects are in detention; 2 suspects were handed over to NDLEA, and one suspects was handed over to the Nigerian Police respectively, while 151 are on administrative bail".

He said "On a sad note, four of our officers namely: Late inspectors of Customs TP Astor and A. Onwueguzie; Assistant Inspectors of Customs, Musa, R. and Bristol E. lost their lives in active service while confronting smugglers last year. While we frowned at such murderous acts, we also ensured that those behind some of the killings were arrested to face justice.

“While on our enforcement function, we recovered shortfalls in duty payments and achieved a total collection of N878,344,486,96 as revenue for the government in 2022.

"This collected revenue would have been lost but for the intervention of FOU ‘A’, checking to be sure correct duties were paid into government coffers.”

Controller Ejibunu said the units

For 2023,  shall sustain and increase the tempo of its anti-smuggling operations, ensuring zero compromise as usual, arresting perpetrators and seizing their wares: 

"We want to advise smugglers and their collaborators to seek legitimate means of livelihood this year as this Unit will continually make life unbearable for them through interdictions, arrests seizures and diligent prosecution.

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