NPA's Revised Procedure For Processing Agro Export Truck To Ports Will Retard Industry Progress - COMTUA

          M.D, NPA, MR. BELLO KOKO

NPA's Revised Procedure For Processing Agro Export Truck To Ports Will Retard Industry Progress - COMTUA 

Council of Maritime Transport Union  and Association, COMTUA, has stated that the revised procedure for processing Agro Export Truck to ports by the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, is  wrong, utterly biased, and possibly to negate progress of the industry.

According to the letter sent to the office of the Managing Director, NPA, Bello Koko, and signed by the National President, COMTUA, Comrade Adeyinka Aroyewun, the directive which emanated  from MD's office as suggested on the circular, would hinder efficiency and seamless movement in the agro export movement.

Aroyewun  noted that the policy peddled on eto platform failed to adequately address the negative impact the policy would have in the system.

"From our studies, experience and investigations, the policy only compromised the realities on ground in the system it pretends to assist.

 "Among the many challenges would be the economic implications of double handling, delays, loss of jobs and wages, double charging for call up, as oppose to the possible claim of creation of more opportunities".

The union wondered why the short notice for such a significant transition done without proper and due consultations carried out, adding that it may be another way to burden the trucking family the more

"Regretable is that we are afraid, formulation of most of these contentious policies, neither consult nor seat with sincere and genuine stakeholders before coming up with these negative and unprogressive ideas.

Enrichment of few to the detriment of many Nigerians and our economy is not the best for the industry in particular and the nation as a whole.

"We have advised your agency severally against the use of pseudo truckers to represent genuine truck owners at your meetings. We see it as a ploy to get endorsement through the backdoor for an inappropriate policy.

"This misrepresentation has affected negatively, the outcome of most of your policies concerning trucking activities.

"On these and others , COMTUA is rejecting the policy in its entirety," the letter stated.

Aroyewun affirmed COMTUA's readiness for constructive debates on issues to move the industry forward with genuine stakeholders for  more indepth consultations to determine the best approach for whatever challenges the system is envisaging.

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CILT: INAUGURATE NIGERIAN MAGAYAKI ZAUZAU IBRAHIM JIBRIL AS INTERNATIONAL VICE-PRESIDENT

      MAGAYAKI ZAUZAU, IBRAHIM JIBRIL, CILT INTERNATIONAL VICE- PRESIDENT

CILT: INAUGURATE NIGERIAN MAGAYAKI ZAUZAU IBRAHIM JIBRIL AS INTERNATIONAL VICE-PRESIDENT

By: Bisi Akingbade

The International body of the Chartered Institute of Transport and Logistics, CILT, has elected a Nigerian, Magayaki Zauzau Ibrahim Jibril as the International Vice President and Chairman Africa Region.

Jibril,  who is a Nigerian Transport expert with the newly elected executives were inaugurated during the annual CILT Africa forum held from at the Kigali Convention Centre, Kigali, Rwanda.

The theme for 2023 conference, isa; “Logistics & Infrastructure development as an engine for sustainable implementation of African Continental Free Trade Area, AfCFTA,”, with the discussants drawn from various countries within and outside Africa focused on issues pertaining to supply chain, logistics and transport issues affecting the African Continent.

Jibril appreciated the International President, Paul Sainthouse and the newly elected President for their efforts in taking the body to greater heights, while also assuring the new executives of  consolidating on the achievements of the outgoing executives. 

“I appreciate the good work the President is doing in the international secretariat at the international level. We appreciate what you have been doing so far. At this point, I cannot but appreciate the President-Elect; we are very proud in Africa of your achievements; we are very proud of what you have been doing in over two decades in Africa to take us to the level that we are now and we will continue to appreciate you. I will want to assure you that with your appointment as the President-Elect, and subsequently International President; Africa is in it together with you”, he said.

Jibril has Advanced Diploma and Bachelor’s Degree in both Public Administration and a Master Degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy. 

He retired in the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency,  NIMASA, as a Director.

As a Director, while in NIMASA,  he supervised the Maritime Capacity Building, Corporate Planning & Statistics, Administration & HR, Reform Coordination & Strategic Management and Maritime Labour Services Departments.

He is a long-standing Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport, CILT, Chartered Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management, NIM, Fellow of the Institute of Supervision and Leadership and Companion of the Nautical Institute, CNI, London. 

Jubril is a former International Vice President of CILT in London and also the former President and Chairman of Council of CILT, Nigeria.  

He is also the Magayaki Zauzau in Kaduna State, Nigeria.

The CILT African forum is a major continental event for Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport, International, organized annually and rotated among Africa member countries. The Africa Forum provides a platform for Governments, Individuals, Students, and Corporate Organisations to share, learn and promote professional and business interests.

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LABS, UNIVERSITY OF SUNDERLAND PARTNERS TO DEVELOPED UNIVERSITY OF ENTREPRENEUR IN NIGERIA

LABS, UNIVERSITY OF SUNDERLAND PARTNERS TO DEVELOPED UNIVERSITY OF ENTREPRENEUR IN NIGERIA 

By: Bisi Akingbade

The London Academy Business School, LABS, United Kingdom, in partnership with University of Sunderland, has advocated for the introduction of vocational education qualification to developed University of Entrepreneur in Nigeria.

This was disclosed by the Executive Chairman, London Academy Business School, Dr. Jones-Esan during a media parley organized in Lagos by the institution.

His word “this is why we are here, we are here in a big way to change the narratives of education, that is what London Academy Business School and the University of Sunderland is bringing to the people of Nigeria and Africa at large”. 

“Literally everyone in Ekiti state have a PHD or they are Professor and they have so much resources in that part of Nigeria, but unfortunately I have not seen that education transform into what it should be like, so we at London Academy Business School have developed the university of entrepreneurship where enterprise becomes the main aim and the main goal of our institution, 

"So we are working in partnership with the University of Sunderland which will eventually transformed into University of Entrepreneurship so that is the idea. 

"We want to move from theory into practice that is the reason why our strapline is bridging the gap between theory and practice” he opined.

Dr. Esan said “We did not cut corners, we went straight to the Ministry of Education to register our presence and get the permission to operate in the country, so we have got full permission to operate as a private institution in Lagos State, 

He added that "we also wrote letter, an Expression of Interest to National Universities Commission, NUC in Abuja, for them to know that we are working with University of Sunderland so that when our students graduates they can do their mandatory National Youth Service Corps, NYSC alongside their colleagues in other institutions”. 

Also, the consultant with the London Academy Business School, Mr. Chukwuemeka Onwuakagba,in his remarks said that majority of the schools in Nigeria make use of curriculum which was put together since 1970s and 1980s and the so called mentors uses these materials to teach students.

Onwuakagba noted that “that is why they say we have mind but we don’t train minds, if you come to Nigeria you see Chinese, I have lots of Indonesian friends that are in the pharmaceutical sector of Nigeria, you will ask yourself, why are they leaving Indonesia and coming to Nigeria to work? It is because we have something we don’t know we have. 

Onwuakagba, said on the contrary the London Academy Business School applies the use of Artificial Intelligence, AI, in their modus of operation.

According to LABS Business Development Manager, Mr. Edward Astaire also disclosed that JAMB is not a determinant gain admission into institution.

“We have our own A-Levels which is at level 3 courses that allows our students to be prepared for English, Mathematics and other subjects they will need to go into year one to year three of the programme so we need people who have results in WAEC, GCE, NECO with the dedication to want to learn and change themselves”.

The LABS mission is to provide high-quality education and training to students from diverse backgrounds and nationalities. Its approach to teaching combines academic theory with practical skills and industry knowledge, aiming to prepare students for the challenges of the modern business world.

LABS has a strong network of industry partners and affiliations, allowing students to benefit from real-world experiences and connections with leading businesses and organizations. The school also promotes entrepreneurship and innovation, encouraging students to develop their own ideas and businesses.

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Inter Agency Collaboration: Critical To Sustain Government's Efforts In Curbing Criminal Activities - Jamoh

Inter Agency Collaboration: Critical To Sustain Government's Efforts In Curbing Criminal Activities - Jamoh

 By: Bisi Akingbade

Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, OFR has stated that inter-agency collaboration is critical to sustaining the efforts to curb criminal activities in the Nigerian waters and the Gulf of Guinea, GoG.

Jamoh made this assertion when he played host to the Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP); Major General (rtd) Barry Ndiomu at the headquarters of the Agency in Lagos. 

He also applauded the visit of the Amnesty boss, and added that it was timely and a wake-up call to synergy, in order to sustain the tempo of policing the Nigerian waters, while also actively engaging and empowering the youths on opportunities in the Nigerian maritime sector.

Accordingly, he said; “Nigeria has received several commendations from the international community for the visible successes achieved in addressing insecurity in our maritime domain. As such, they are watching to see if we can sustain the tempo, hence the Agency’s willingness to partner with the Presidential Amnesty Programme and other relevant bodies”.

Meanwhile, Jamoh informed the Amnesty Interim Administrator on the viability of creating jobs through the Blue Economy, noting that the maritime sector has the wherewithal to engage the youths, as this will dissuade them from the nefarious activities of perpetuating crimes on the nation’s waterways.

“The Nigerian maritime industry is large enough to sustainably and actively engage the teeming youths, as there are enormous opportunities in the industry that the youths can take advantage of to generate foreign earnings”, the DG said.

He further assured of the Agency’s readiness to collaborate with the Presidential Amnesty Programme in reintegrating beneficiaries of the Amnesty programme into the society.

Earlier in his remarks, Major General Barry Ndiomu (rtd) called on NIMASA to fashion out workable and sustained partnerships towards creating opportunities for teeming youths in the Niger Delta region.

General Ndiomu also disclosed that the PAP has trained a large number of youths across institutions in the world in various specializations, some of which include Deep Sea Diving, Underwater Welding, and Marine Engineering, hence the reason for seeking partnership with the Agency to engage them actively on maritime related opportunities.

He also used the opportunity to inform the DG of his agenda for the Amnesty Programme. “My vision is to chart a new path for the Amnesty Programme by upholding the principal objectives of government, by bringing innovative ideas, setting a new Management structure of wealth creation for the teeming youths, instead of depending on monthly stipends, to pave way for a more prosperous future. We are looking at technical support from NIMASA, and job placement opportunities in NIMASA for our qualified delegates, he said.

The Amnesty boss also used the opportunity to commend the DG and his team for redefining the safety and security of Nigeria’s Maritime Industry. “I am aware of your outstanding achievements, particularly in the obvious reduction of piracy on the Gulf of Guinea,” Ndiomu said.

It may be recalled that the Blue Economy mantra has been in the forefront of the campaign under the Jamoh-led administration in NIMASA, which is aimed at educating the public on the ideals of the Blue Economy, while guiding the Federal Government to make policies around the mantra.

The essence of the Blue Economy is to preserve the resources in the oceans towards ensuring sustainability, wealth creation and by extension job creation, which will help curb insecurity in the country, while also reducing over reliance on crude oil, which is fast depreciating in the global space.

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NDIC COMMENCES VERIFICATION OF INSURED DEPOSITORS OF DEFUNCT PEAK MERCHANT BANK

 

NDIC COMMENCES VERIFICATION OF INSURED DEPOSITORS OF DEFUNCT PEAK MERCHANT BANK 

By: Akingbade Adebisi

The Nigeria Deposit Insurance corporation, NDIC, has commenced verification of insured depositors of Peak Merchant Bank in-liquidation towards payment of their insured sums, with its mandate of deposit guaranty and reimbursement of depositors in the event of bank failure.

In a press release signed by the Director, Communication and Public Affairs, NDIC, Bashir Nuhu, the verification exercise would enable depositors of the defunct bank to cross-check and ascertain their account information as well as balances with the bank as at closure. 

The release stated further that the process is a prelude to the payment of insured sums to such depositors.

NDIC, therefore, enjoined depositors to visit the bank’s old premises or the Corporation’s office nearest to them with proof of account ownership and verifiable means of identification for the exercise. 

NDIC added that insured sum is the first and mandatory payment that depositors are paid, up to specified limit, if a bank fails. 

Depositors are paid amounts in excess of the insured sums, subsequently, as liquidation dividends from proceeds of the closed bank’s assets as realised by NDIC as liquidator.  

 

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CTN Reintroduction Cost Not For Shippers - Jime

CTN Reintroduction Cost Not For Shippers - Jime

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Nigerian Shippers’ Council, NSC, has assured the Manufacturers’ Association of Nigeria, MAN,  that Nigerian shippers will not bear the burden of negative costs of the reintroduction of the Cargo Tracking Note, CTN, 

This was made known by the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, NSC, Mr. Emmanuel Jime, at the meeting with some delegates from MAN, in his office, led by its former Vice President, Mr. John Aluya, and the  representative of the Director-General. , Mr. Ambrose Oruche, Director of Corporate Affairs.

According to the Executive Secretary,  the reintroduction of the CTN was “not fundamentally different from the previous operations of the system,” adding that “the cost-implication this time has been located in a way that does not do dramatic damage as far as the economy is concerned.”

Jime said that the understanding we have at the Nigerian Shippers’ Council is that this cost will not be borne by the Nigerian shipper, and that, for me, is the key with which we need to appreciate this.

“In the course of implementation, as nothing is perfect, especially when you are just starting, I believe we will see areas where there will be need for some twerking, and if that happens, we will be more than happy to address as the situations arrive. In the moment, I think the benefits far outweigh whatever disadvantages there may be.  

The Executive Secretary insisted that the cost would actually be very minimal in the light of the enormous benefits that will accrue. 

 “This cost actually has always been in shipping charge, so it is not something really new.

“Beyond that, and most importantly, is to look at the real impact that this is going to have on the Nigerian economy, especially in the area of securing a nation, a lot more than we have done in the past.

“Part of the challenge we have had here is the proliferation of small arms around the country, some of which have actually found their way through the port, the reason being that we have not actually put a tool, like what we have now, that would enable us detect from the get-go of such consignments.

 

“If you put that side-by-side the minimal increase that this is going to bring, I think it will make more sense that we should be able to provide a secure environment that enables business to flourish. No one actually wants to do business in an environment of chaos, where there is insecurity. That is the balance we have to input in this discussion.”

He added that the theft of crude which is also a huge challenge as far as the nation’s resources are concerned, is also a variable that we must considered..

“I don’t really have the data, but it is not rocket science that the amount of crude that is stolen is sufficient to cause the kind of development that will develop our nation. These are some of the balancing factors that this is going to bring.”

He further listed “the phenomenon of under-declaration, which also has a negative impact on the economy,” as another motivation for its reintroduction, adding that that all these derivable positives balance out some cost-derivatives and whatever “very minimal increase you are going to have on the economy.”

Oruche stated that  MAN is against the reintroduction of the CTN because  its convinced that it would have negative effect on the economy, having already been embedded in the freight cost from the shipping lines. He explained that this position prompted its suspension in 2012.

He further stressed that if it was ever implemented before the suspension, it was not at any cost to shippers until this reintroduction, “so, if the shipping lines have embedded this along other costs, they should continue to bear it.

“They should not in any way transfer the cost of CTN to manufacturers or importers, because that will also have a negative impact on the economy. We are talking about the inflation rate: last month the rate increased, so, if you introduce more costs, what will happen to consumers?

“You and I will bear the brunt while foreigners are enjoying the money. So, that is why we are saying, let the charges remain as they are, even with the reintroduction of the CTN, or even reduce.”

He said that during the tenure of Mr. Hassan Bello as the NSC Executive Secretary,  it was strongly argued that the CTN was already embedded in the freight charges and was not going to be at the expense of the importer/exporter, and “CTN was excluded from export.

“Then, on the basis of charges, it was argued that the CTN was already embedded in the shipping charges and that was why the shipping lines also raised an objection. However, it was agreed that the shipping lines would bear the charges.”

MAN also stands against the shipping lines systematically passing the burden to the shippers, while the NSC then assured that as the agency in charge of freight rate, it would control that.

MAN stated that Nigeria was already too expensive, and instead of being the hub of West African shippers, multiplicity of charges has made it so uncompetitive that the landlocked countries were using small countries, like Benin Republic, to bring in their goods.

“Where it is going to be introduced, let it be very marginal because the manufacturers’ ultimate aim is to make sure that Nigeria becomes the hub of West African sub-region, and if our cost keeps going up, we will be driving the landlocked countries from using our port.

“We don’t pay these bills directly, it is the ultimate consumer that pays the bill, but it is our duty to protect that ultimate consumer by making sure that our products are competitive.”

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SON ARRAIGNS SUBSTANDARD ENGINE OIL PRODUCER

SON ARRAIGNS SUBSTANDARD ENGINE OIL  PRODUCER 

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Standards Organisation of Nigeria, SON, at the Federal High Court arraigned Mr. Solomon Oyumgbo for producing substandard Engine Oil which has been in circulation for months.

Solomon was arraigned before Justice Abimbola Awogboro  on a four count charge. 

The prosecutor, Mr. Yusuf Lawan, told the Court that the defendant committed the alleged offences on for cloning Harden Engine Oil which has been in circulation for months and suspected to be substandard. 11, 2022, at Aspamda International Trade Fair, Lagos.

Lawan told the Court that the defendant deals in substandard engine oil named Hardex SN Gold SAE 5W-30, a fully Synthetic Engine Oil which did not conform with the mandatory Industrial  Standard for synthetic lubricating oil for Motor vehicles NIS 1024:2018.

 

He told the court that the defendant without lawful authority or licence did engage in dealing and selling of Hardex SN Gold SAE 5W-30 Fully Synthetic Engine Oil.

He told the Court that the offence committed by the defendant are contrary to and punishable under section 26(2) (b)(ii) of the Standards Organisation of Nigeria Act, 2015 and contravened Sections 1(18)(a)(ii); 1(48)(a)(ii) and 1(17) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, Cap M17, laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004, and punishable under the same Act.

However, the defendant pleaded not guilty to the offences, and the Prosecutor asked for a short date for trial, and equally urged the court to remand the defendant in the custody of the Nigerian Correctional Services (NCoS), till the determination of the charges .

However, Barrister Onah Chinedu, who represented the defendant ‘probono’, asked the court for a short date, to enable him file the defendant’s bail application.

The lawyer also pleaded with the court to remand the defendant in the custody of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (Force CID), Alagbon-Ikoyi Lagos, till the hearing and determination of the bail application.

Justice Awogboro, in her bench ruling, ordered that the defendant be remanded in Force CID’s custody and adjourned the matter till May 5 ,2023 for hearing of  the bail application.

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COMTUA Reacts To Oyo Agency Over Poor Handling of Obstruction, Extortion Claims

COMTUA Reacts To Oyo Agency Over Poor Handling of Obstruction, Extortion Claims

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Council of Maritime Truck Unions and Associations, COMTUA, has reacted to the Oyo State Road Transport Management Authority, OYRTMA allegations on poor handling of a case of obstruction caused by a truck belonging to a member of COMTUA in the Challenge area of Ibadan, Oyo State.

According to the press release signed by the National President of COMTUA, Comrade Adeyinka Aroyewun, queried why the Oyo State Road Transport Management Authority, OYRTMA, levelled obstruction charges on the truck that had already been evacuated to the garage.

Aroyewun explained that the association with the aid of police and the Federal Road Safety Corps, had immediately evacuated the truck, leaving only the container for lack of equipment.

He condemned why OYRTMA don't have fixed charges for traffic offences, fixing charges off hand and why payment should be made to a private company.

He added that COMTUA believes that the case of accident falls within the purview  of the police and any recovery bill should have been sent to the police. 

While debunking the allegation levelled against him by the chairman of the OYRTMA , Mr. Akin Fagbemi  that he collected N500,000 from his member, the owner of the container to secure  its release without paying the fine as untrue.

He also described as false the allegation that he claimed to be an APC member to seek favour, saying that the blatant lie cannot fly since Oyo State is under PDP.

Aroyewun threatened a suit for the libellous statements by OYRTMA,  if not proven or retracted.

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COMTUA: Condemns Unruly Behaviour of OSROTMA Chairman

COMTUA: Condemns Unruly Behaviour of OSROTMA Chairman

 

... Reject payment of fine to private firm 

By: Bisi Akingbade

Committee of Transport Unions and Associations, COMTUA, has condemned the unruly behaviour of the Chairman of Oyo State Road Transport Management Authority and the disturbing fine of N850,000,  he issued that should be paid to a private firm, Reliable Auto Services.

The association wondered why a government agency would fine and direct that the money should be paid to a private account instead of the agency's account or state government's account.

In a letter written to the governor and signed by the President of the association, Comrade Adeyinka Aroyewun, COMTUA expressed the gratitude of his association to the governor on the removal of its member's container that blocked the road around Challenge in Ibadan, adding that it is a further prove of his administration's promptness to resolve issues around safety of lives and properties.

 The association regretted any embarrassment the accident that resulted in the abandonment of the container on the side of the road might have caused the government and good people of the state.

The association claimed it responded promptly to the accident by visiting the scene to ensure safety of lives and property, joining agencies of government, mainly Police and FRSC and paying equipment operators ( crane, Hiab loader and towing van) to remove the truck and container from the road.

 "We could not completely evacuate the container due to equipment scarcity within the state.

The DPO of Felele Police Station and the  Unit Commander of the FRSC, Toll gate Unit, Lagos-Ibadan express road, were professional in their conducts by ensuring that lives and properties were properly protected.

"The container would NOT have stayed beyond the same day but for logistics challenges," the association stated.

 COMTUA pleaded with his excellency to consider the release of the said truck and container; which is currently in the custody of the Oyo State Road Transport Management Authority.

COMTUA added that the letter became necessary after approaching the agency which gave "a bill of Eight hundred and fifty Thousand Naira (#850,000), payable to a Zenith Bank Account Number number 1016751601, whose beneficiary is RELIABLE AUTO SERVICES instead of the Agency or State government account."

The association was concerned by this and sent a delegation led by the president of the association to meet with the Chairman.

The letter reads: "Our purpose of the visit was to express our gratitude and solidarity to the government of Oyo State through the agency, plead for a waiver on the said fine and seek clarification on the account.

"We were disturbed by the level of misrepresentation of your government" 

 "Apart from being unprofessional, he did not hide his inferriority complex towards LASTMA, when he realised we came from Lagos. 

"This was noted without stress when he kept referring to the agency in every of his statement, comparing structures and operation mode instead of addressing the issue.

"We were humiliated in the presence of his female friends in the office. 

"We were threatened to be beaten by hoodlums and he eventually abandoned our delegation to play Table Tennis within the complex.

"We were abandoned for several hours before we left the premises without achieving any meaningful results.

"He was extreme boastful and willing to take laws into his hands simply because he claim to report directly to the governor.

"He advised us to go to court and emphasised his influence on the judiciary.

"We do pray that you look into our appeal and also consider calling the concerned officer to order in the interest of the image of your administration.

"Such character does not fit the respect and popularity your administration commands," COMTUA concludes.

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Shipowners Ready, Responsible To Take Proper Utilisation of Cabotage Fund - SOAN President

     Mkgeorge Onyung, President, SOAN

Shipowners Ready, Responsible To Take  Proper Utilisation of Cabotage Fund - SOAN President

Blue Economy not a child's play but serves as a blue print for the incoming government

By: Bisi Akingbade

The President of the Shipowners Association of Nigeria, SOAN, Dr. Mkgeorge Onyung has assured of members proper utilisation of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund, CVFF, when disbursed by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA.

Onyung gave the assurance while speaking at the Centre for Financial Journalism, the Bullion Lecture, held in Lagos, Civic Centre, Victoria Island.

The theme of the lecture was: “Banking on Blue Economy for Nigeria’s Economic Development.”

He said the members of SOAN are serious minded people in the business of shipping.

“We are not taking it as a grant, but a proper loan.

“The point is, we from SOAN, are a group of genuine ship owners. There is no member of our association that does not have a ship.

He said “Our members are already working with International Oil Companies and we adhere to international standards and rules. We are ready and responsible to take this facility.

“When one ship berths in our water, you will see that clearing agents and several others will be part of the business,” 

He appreciated the Federal Ministry of Transportation and NIMASA Director-General, Dr Bashir Jamoh, for the CVFF.

On the issue of blue economy.à

“Just that the United Nations drew attention to it because of the increasing poverty that was going on across the world.

“When God created the oceans, he put 700,000 species inside the water. The number of creatures in the ocean is big enough to feed us, we are just 7.7 billion. God buried all the treasure in the ocean.

“Today, we have just found a cure for sea blindness, Jamoh just told us that sea blindness is a disease that is inflicting the maritime industry and the solution to that is maritime knowledge which he has impacted on us.

“Telling us to learn more about the ocean so that we can benefit from it and we need to tap into the benefits of the ocean,” he said.

He noted that another part of blue economy which had to do with ferries was that the need to have ships that could take 450 passengers at ago to boost water transportation.

“For us to sustain the tourism and ferry transportation and make Lagos a sea transport city, we must look at the future.

“We are talking about sustainability of the blue economy, we have to be deliberate about this, so in building ports we need to ensure that free entrance and exit of ships,” he said.

.       Dr. Bashir Jamoh, DG, NIMASA

while delivering his lecture, the Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh stated that  while the country await a blue economy, a cohesive national policy to fully kick into gear, the country must for a starter become blue ambassadors, advocate for it.

“There is the need for total rethink of our waters, from a ceremonial to a commercial view, events such as Argungu Fishing Festival and others must be redesigned and repackaged from the standpoint of the blue economy.

“We must intentionally work to banish sea blindness amongst Nigerians, ensure shipyard expansion for shipbuilding and others,” he said.

He noted that the worth of the world’s Blue Economy at $24 trillion with Nigeria being the 7th largest in ocean resources potentials ahead of Brazil.

"Blue Economy is valued at $2.5 trillion per annum; 90 per cent of global trade volume is seaborne; 350 million jobs worldwide linked to fisheries; 34 per cent offshore crude production by aquaculture is the fastest growing food sector, providing 50 per cent of fish for humanity”.

“Nigeria is blessed with 850 kilometres (km) of coastline, 8,573 km of inland waterways, 200 Exclusive Economic Zone, twelve nautical miles territorial waters and six port complexies of Apapa, Tin Can, Onne, Port Harcourt, Warri and Calabar.

“In addition, Nigeria has 21 oil terminals and more than 10 jetties and 200 million production output. Twenty eight out of 36 states are accessible by water and linked to five neighbouring countries with 10,000 km of waterways that is navigable year-round”, he stated.

Dr. Jamoh said that NIMASA was driving Nigeria blue economy through the disbursement of the $720 million CVFF, deployment of modulator floating dock, capacity building of seafarers, wreck removal, underwater marine cable regulation and management and others.

Jamoh further said the blue economy is not a child's play but its serves as a blue print for the incoming government.

.    Mrs. Jean Chiazor Anishere, SAN

In her contribution as Chairman of the Bullion lecture 2023, Mrs. Jean Chiazo-Anishere,  said the country successfully bank on the blue economy to drive economic growth.

“Nigeria is blessed with vast coastline and abundant marine resources that can be harnessed for economic growth and development.

“It is just not for us to tap on the ocean resources, we need to ensure that it is sustained otherwise, we will not have anything to tap from.

“The sustainability of the blue economy is very key. It represents a significant opportunity for Nigerians to diversify it’s economy and create other ways for job creation and revenue generation by investing in things such as fisheries, aquaculture, maritime transport tourism and others.

“To fully unlock all the potential of the blue economy, it’s essential that we adopt the strategic approach,”.

.    Mr. Femi Adesina, Special Adviser on            Media and Publicity of Federal          Republic of Nigeria

The Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr. Femi Adesina, stated that the  Centre For Financial Journalism was born in his presence and he encouraged the President of the Centre, Mr. Ray Echebiri for the idea of CFJ.

Adesina affirmed that in the next 44 days, he will go back to media and agriculture.

"Yes I will back in the media. 

"I also have interest in agric. 

"You know when you start a farm, its needs a lots of supervision. So I will like to start a farm and also be in the media".

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Illegal, Unreported, Unregulated Fishing Leads To Depletion of Fishing Trawlers - NITOA

Illegal, Unreported, Unregulated Fishing Leads To Depletion of Fishing Trawlers - NITOA

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Nigerian Trawlers Owners Association, NITOA, has said that the menace of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing had led to the depletion of fishing trawlers in the country .

The President of the association, Mrs Benedette Okonkwo,  said this at the Zoe Maritime Resources Ltd., Maritime Business Roundtable Breakfast Meeting  on fishing and fisheries in Lagos.

Okonkwo disclosed that members of the association had a combined fleet of over 250 vessels and over 20 fishing companies which has drastically reduced to 150 vessels with about five presently struggling to survive.

She noted that illegal fishing activities in the country was threatening Nigeria’s blue economy prospects.

Okonkwo called on the government to introduce initiatives that would the fishing industry.

Her words “NITOA has been involved in industrial fishing activities in Nigeria since 1986 when some notable Nigerians initiated the idea of having a unified body to represent its members on issues of mutual interest.

“There is the need to establish Fisheries Terminal here in Lagos where about 95 per cent of the industrial fishing operators are based.

“Also, government should do well to resucitate the Export Expansion Grant (EEG) Scheme, to make it more robust, workable and transparent,” she said.

She said that trawler owners were overburdened by overzealous government agencies overseeing sea fishing which affects the growth of the industry that should be a veritable source of local fish supply and foreign exchange earnings for the country.

“There is the need for the government to sit down with NITOA to chart a common course so as to harmonise the processes and procedures to attract more local and foreign direct investments.

“ Other areas that government must look into include; high cost of statutory registration and renewals of trawlers particulars from the regulatory agencies; occasional pirate attacks at high sea leading to loss of lives and property and damage of vessels and machines,” she said.

 Director, YOA Insurance Brokers, Mrs Enitan Solarin, , stressed the need for insurance awareness to the fishing industry.

Solarin who was represented by Mrs. Bolanle Anjorin called for enhanced collaboration between fisheries, regulators and insurance industry.

Solarin represented by Mrs. Bolanle Anjorin added that enforcement by regulatory agencies with respect to insurances such as Protection & Indemnity, Hull & Machinery Third Party Liability-alm would improve the working conditions of fishers and fishing practices.

She noted that fishermen need financial incentives by government and other bodies and enforcement of regulations to curb illegal fishin in order to move the forward.

“As with all uncertainties, insurance plays an important role in the fishing sector as it provides financial compensation for unforeseen events.

“The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries, recognises the importance of insurance in fisheries.

“Its article 8.2.8 emphasises that owners or charterers of fishing vessels should carry sufficient insurance cover to protect the crew of such vessels and their interests, to indemnify third parties against loss or damage and to protect their own interests,” he said.

Speaking,  the Vice President of Fisheries Society of Nigeria, Dr Olalekan Oguntade, stressed the need for up-to-date data on IUU fishing to analyse the extent damage in the sector.

“On IUU Fishing, there should be a NEEDS assessment of the industry. We equally need to protect the artisanal fishing industry which is where most riverine communities operate."

The Chairman, Zoe Maritime Resources Ltd., Mrs. Oritsematosan Edodo-Emore, said Nigeria’s vast coastline and its Exclusive Economic Zone, EEZ, had immeasurable fish resources which ordinarily should transform the economy if properly harnessed.

“It is on record that with a population of about 140 million local demand for fish outweighs the supply.

“This means that there is constant demand for fish and fish products which should keep the local fishing industry bouyant but the reality on ground tells a different story.

“The records show that there has been a steady decline in local catch and production of fish in Nigeria.

“In the 1970’s, domestic production of fish was said to range from 600,000 to 700,000 tonnes. By 1983 this dropped to 538,000 tonnes in 2000, local catch was 441,337 tonnes and today the figure is not encouraging".

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NIMASA takes delivery of boats for staff's water transportation

NIMASA takes delivery of boats for staff's water transportation

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, has taken delivery of brand new mass transit boats and operations vessels to ease movements by its workers.

The delivery of the boats will also make NIMASA to fulfil its mandates of promoting blue economy and regulating the maritime domain.

The Director General of the agency, Dr. Bashir Jamoh stated in a post on his social media handles that  a deliberate policy of NIMASA staff commuting to work via water transport will soon be in effect.

According to the NIMASA boss, such policy will allow the agency to practise what it preaches.

In his words: “We are practising what we preach.

“Our deliberate policy of NIMASA staff commuting to work by water transport will soon be in effect.

“The Agency’s presence and brand will become ever-dominant in our waters. Players, operators and stakeholders will be able to engage with us more directly and with real-time experience and value.

“Glad to announce we have taken delivery of our brand-new mass-transit boats and operations vessels to enable us to fulfil our dual mandates of promoting the Blue Economy and regulating the maritime domain".

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NIMASA takes delivery of boats for staff's water transportation

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, has taken delivery of brand new mass transit boats and operations vessels to ease movements by its workers.

The delivery of the boats will also make NIMASA to fulfil its mandates of promoting blue economy and regulating the maritime domain.

The Director General of the agency, Dr. Bashir Jamoh stated in a post on his social media handles that  a deliberate policy of NIMASA staff commuting to work via water transport will soon be in effect.

According to the NIMASA boss, such policy will allow the agency to practise what it preaches.

In his words: “We are practising what we preach.

“Our deliberate policy of NIMASA staff commuting to work by water transport will soon be in effect.

“The Agency’s presence and brand will become ever-dominant in our waters. Players, operators and stakeholders will be able to engage with us more directly and with real-time experience and value.

“Glad to announce we have taken delivery of our brand-new mass-transit boats and operations vessels to enable us to fulfil our dual mandates of promoting the Blue Economy and regulating the maritime domain".

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EASTER CELEBRATION: NAGAFF PRESIDENT FELICITATES WITH CHRISTIANS, TASK FREIGHT FORWARDERS TO PRAY FOR NIGERIA

EASTER CELEBRATION: NAGAFF PRESIDENT FELICITATES WITH CHRISTIANS, TASK FREIGHT FORWARDERS TO PRAY FOR NIGERIA

By: Bisi Akingbade

The President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, NAGAFF,, Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, has called on freight forwarders to pray for Nigeria's unity and peace as he felicitated with the Christian faithful on Easter.

Ezisi, in his easter message, called for  the need of unity and collaboration, particularly in the face of the country's numerous challenges.

He  highlighted the importance of coming together, regardless of religion or ethnicity, to work towards a better Nigeria. 

He also emphasized the need for peace and security, noting that these were prerequisites for economic growth and development.

NAGAFF President stressed the importance of prayer, particularly during these challenging times, and called on freight forwarders to join hands with other Nigerians to pray for the nation.

His word "I urge each and every one of you to take some time this Easter to pray for Nigeria. Let us pray for peace, security, and for prosperity. Let us pray for our leaders, that they may have the wisdom and courage to guide our nation toward a better future. And let us pray for ourselves, that we may be agents of positive change in our industry and in our society.

"Furthermore, I want to emphasize the importance of living in peace with one another. As freight forwarders, we come from different backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities. We work together every day, and we depend on each other for the success of our businesses. It is essential that we treat each other with respect, kindness, and tolerance, regardless of our differences.

"In conclusion, I want to leave you with the words of a famous prayer: "Grant us the serenity to accept the things we cannot change, the courage to change the things we can, and the wisdom to know the difference." 

"Let us pray for Nigeria, and let us work together to build a better future for ourselves and for generations to come. Thank you.".

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FRSC hands to police N27m found at accident scene

FRSC hands to police N27m found at accident scene

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, has handed over to the police a sum of N27,171,400 recovered from an accident spot in Osun State by its patrol team.

The Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Dauda Ali Biu, commended the patrol team of Osun State Sector command for returning the money recovered.

Biu, in a statement signed by the Corps Public Education Officer, Bisi Kazeem, expressed satisfaction with the honesty and sense of patriotism exhibited by the personnel.

He said the team did not only show professionalism in doing their job but also displayed the integrity of the Corps which is one its hallmarks.

Biu affirmed that the returned money was witnessed by the DPO and the DTO of the NPF, Ipetu-Ijesa, Seriki Owena, Ilesa and Benin with the Hausa community.

“I want to commend the entire team for being patriotic, honest, efficient and professional in delivering the mandate of the FRSC. This act they showed would never be forgotten as it is considered a great service to humanity.

“I want to charge every officer to emulate this character exhibited by the team as good deeds pays off.”

Lamenting about the crash, Biu said that it would have been avoided if motorists involved had adhered strictly to traffic rules.

The corps marshal said that the multiple road accident which occurred at Ipetu Ijesa in the Oriade Local Government Area of the state claimed six lives while seven others sustained various degree of injuries.

Recall that two commercial vehicles, an Opel and Toyota Sienna, were involved in the accident.

The probable causes of the crash were dangerous driving and excessive speeding, the statement said.

The recovered money according to the corps marshal belonged to the driver of the Opel and was handed over to the Ijebu Ijesa police with a  promise that the FRSC would continue to ensure the safety of lives and property.

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Customs warns against fake online recruitment notice

Customs warns against fake online recruitment notice

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has called on Nigerians  to disregard recruitment notice circulating online.

The NCS Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, made the call in Abuja at the weekend.

Maiwada described the notice as fake, noting that the NCS was not recruiting at the moment.

”The notice is the handiwork of unscrupulous element and an attempt to defraud Nigerians.

“The recruitment notice with the link https://recruitmentfile.net/nigeria-customs-recruitment/ is fake and should be disregarded.

“There are lots of indices to show that the notice is not from Customs, particularly the domain. “Our Website is www.customs.gov.ng.We do not use .net, so it is totally fake.

“Customs is currently not recruiting and if it is doing so, it will be on the official website only,” he said.

The spokesperson said that those involved in such act should desist, adding that it was evil.

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NIMASA BOARD APPOINTS OBASANJO-AKANDE, AMAKULO AS DIRECTORS, APPROVES PROMOTION OF 508 OTHERS

NIMASA BOARD APPOINTS OBASANJO-AKANDE, AMAKULO AS DIRECTORS, APPROVES PROMOTION OF 508 OTHERS

  

... See Your Elevation as Motivation for Higher Performance – Jamoh

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Governing Board of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, has approved the appointment of Mrs. Olubusola Obasanjo-Akande and Engr. Christopher Amakulo as Directors. 

According to the press release made available to the journalists and signed by the Assistant Director, Public Relations,  NIMASA,  Osagie Edward.

The Board also approved the promotion of 22 Assistant Directors to Deputy Directors, 86 Chiefs to Assistant Directors and 400 other staff to their next grade levels. 

The Governing Board of the Agency ratified the promotion during a meeting held in Lagos.

The Director General of the Agency, Dr. Bashir Jamoh, OFR while congratulating the staff noted the Board’s determination to boost the morale of staff by ensuring promotion exercise takes place, as and when due, and charged them to see it as a call to higher performance.

“I am glad that the Agency’s Governing Board has kept faith with the promise to boost staff morale through annual promotion exercises, which is aimed at ensuring staff remain committed to the ideals of the Agency, while helping Management actualise its mandate. I therefore use this opportunity to congratulate the promoted staff, and see the gesture as a motivation to improve performance on the higher task,” Jamoh stated.

The promotion exercise is the fourth under the Dr. Jamoh led management since he assumed office in March 2020.

 

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Seme Customs Command Seized 2242 Bags of Rice, 7 Tankers of PMS, Records Shortfall In Revenue

      Comptroller Dera Nnadi

Seme Customs Command Seized 2242 Bags of Rice, 7 Tankers of PMS, Records Shortfall In Revenue 

By: Bisi Akingbade

Seme Border Command of Nigeria Customs Service disclosed that it has seized 2242 bags of rice being smuggled into the country and 7 tankers of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in the first quarter of the year 2023

The Controller of the Command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi, during the press briefing at the Command in Seme stated that  items seized by the command at the first quarter of the year includes 550 pieces of donkey skin with duty paid value (DPV) of N10,689,504; 6 Maltese International Passports with the same picture of a lady but with different names, 2 Senegalese International Passports.  Also, seven tankers were made of 227,610 liters of PMS with DPV of  Fifty One Million Seventy Five Thousand, Six Hundred and Eighty Four Naira  (N51,075,684).

Also seized items were 3 Togolese International Passports; Four (4) Republic of Benin International Passports, One (1) Republic of Niger International Passport and Ten (10) International Driving License of these various countries were seized and will be handed over to the Nigeria Immigration Service on the orders of the CGC and in line with the Service desire to consolidate the synergy between NCS and partner agencies.

Others seized items by the Command were 1160 pieces of dead rats, 1102 pieces of dead tiny birds and 34 pieces of monkey skin and 14 parcels of cannabis sativa.

Controller Nnadi noted that there was shortfall in revenue recorded during the period compared to what was recorded during the same period last year.

 “Recall that I had earlier informed you that the economic policy of the Republic of Benin who charge fees on goods in transit to Nigeria constitute tariff barriers to trade along the corridor. These affected the Command’s revenue and there is a need for urgent review.

“One of the core mandates of the Service in Seme as elsewhere is trade facilitation. The Command is conscious of its strategic location as the foremost frontier for trade and tourism in West and Central Africa particularly the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and the emerging African Continental Free Tade Area (AFCFTA). Nigeria has lots of potentials in both trade regimes considering its GDP. population and industrial capacity which is the highest in the West and Central Africa subregion and indeed Africa.

“One of the core mandates of the Service in Seme as elsewhere is trade facilitation. The Command is conscious of its strategic location as the foremost frontier for trade and tourism in West and Central Africa particularly the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS) and the emerging African Continental Free Tade Area (AfCFTA).

“Nigeria has lots of potentials in both trade regimes considering its GDP, population and industrial capacity which is the highest in the West and Central Africa subregion and indeed Africa.

“However, I wish to repeat as I had earlier mentioned in my previous interactions with the media that the major source of revenue of the Command (import/export) have not been enhanced since the opening of the land Borders as directed by the Federal Government of Nigeria as the traders are still bracing with the challenges of having been out of business for over two years.

“Where few have embraced the reality of the circumstances, they have requested and appealed for a review of the process of obtaining approvals for re-exportation which requires that they go to Federal Ministry of Finance, Budget and National Planning at Abuja for every application for re-exportation,” 

Comptroller of the Command affirmed that its handed over $6m fake bills to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

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Western Marine Command Records 15 Incidences of Seizures Worths N110.2 Million, Get 4 Patrol Boats

       Comptroller O. Salefu

Western Marine Command  Records 15 Incidences of Seizures Worths  N110.2 Million, Get 4 Patrol Boats

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Western Marine Command. WMC, of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has disclosed 15 incidences of seizures with a cumulative duty paid value, DPV of One hundred and Nighty five thousand,nine hundred and thirty four naira, fifty Kobo , in the first quarter of 2023.

This was revealed by the Controller of the command, Comptroller O.Salefu at the  press briefing on the activities of his command in Ibafon, Apapa Lagos.

He stated that the command made the seizures at various intervals within the period under reveal.

He affirmed that the seized items are: one thousand five hundred and nineteen (1519) bags of 50 kg size of foreign parboiled rice,eight thousand hundred and twenty five (8825) litters of premium motor spirit( PM’s), contained in four hundred and sixty eight (468) kegs of 25 litters each. 

Others seizures includes: Seven hundred(700) pairs of foreign used shoes; twenty (20) used foreign ladies bags,eighty eight (88) cartons of Caro White Cream( bleaching cream),fifty (50) pairs of expired tyres,and three(3) out board engines and one (1) water pumping machine.

He said  that sustained enforcement operations of the command had resulted in the arrest of 5 suspects who ,though, had been given administrative bail pending when they will be charged to court.

While appreciating the members of our host communities who together with their leadership remain a major source of intelligence gathering.

” I must also salute the commitment, dedication and bravery of our Officers and Men operating in the creeks and waterways amiss very risky and difficult challenges.

“Finally and most importantly, we must mention the unflinching support and motivation of the Management of Nigeria Customs Service under the leadership of the Comptroller General, Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali(Rtd) who has continued to provide all necessary support and logistics for our operations, for this we are grateful and assure CGC of our unrelenting fight against these economic saboteurs.

On boat operation he added that the Western Marine Command on the 28th of March 2023 and the 3 of April received in addition to its fleet of boats four additional operational boats consisting of two gun boats and two logistics boat from NCS headquarters.

He appealed to smugglers to desist from unlawful trade and embrace legitimate trade. ” To smugglers, I appeal to you to abandon economic sabotage and unlawful trade to embrace legitimate trade as WMC will not rest on its oars to rid our Creeks/Waterways of illegal trade practices and will continue to enforce Federal laws and policy restrictions” he said ,adding that the command having had their operations boosted by the operational boats provided by the CGC,whoever that ” meets us on the water ways meets his Waterloo”

He called on the media to cooperate with the customs service for adequate and Vital information to suppress smuggling in Nigeria. “I call on the Media and general public to continue to cooperate with the Service by volunteering vital information that will help the service fulfill its obligations of suppressing smuggling in the Creeks/waterways and facilitate legitimate trade by the proper implementation of government fiscal policies”.

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Apapa Customs: Revenue Generation Hits 212.6 Trillion In Three Months

Apapa Customs: Revenue Generation Hits 212.6 Trillion In Three Months

... Recorded N70. 2Bn Export, Seized Containers Worth 22Bn 

By : Bisi Akingbade

The Apapa Area 1 Customs Command of Nigeria Customs Service today disclosed that between the period of January through March, has recorded a total collection of two hundred and twelve billion, five hundred and ninety-two million, six hundred and eighty thousand, seven hundred naira, ninety-nine kobo (N212,592,680,700.99).

This was made known by the Controller of the Command, Comptroller Auwal Muhammed at a press conference in Apapa, Lagos.

Speaking on revenue generation and export trade,  Comptroller Auwal Muhammed  disclosed that between the period of January through March, the command recorded a total collection of two hundred and twelve billion, five hundred and ninety-two million, six hundred and eighty thousand, seven hundred naira, ninety-nine kobo (N212,592,680,700.99.

He said that on export trade, the command processed agricultural goods such as sesame seeds, ginger, hibiscus, mineral resources, steel ingot and others with a total tonnage of 110,448 metric tonnes in the first quarter of 2023.

Muhammed added that statistics from the export report shows that the exported goods are worth seventy billion, two hundred million, eight hundred and twenty-nine thousand, three hundred and fifty-eight naira, sixty-seven kobo (N70,200,829,358.67) which he said is equivalent to Free on Board (FOB) value of $159,845,232.84.

He said “Since my assumption of duty here, I have been meeting with various stakeholder groups comprising importers, exporters, licensed agents, freight forwarders, and others. I am happy to note that these meetings are yielding good results and will be sustained in days ahead.

“In this command, we have a deliberate culture of inter-agency collaboration with other government organizations. Within this first three months, I have enjoyed robust sharing of credible intelligence and support from other agencies of government” he said.

The Controller of the Command warned that "Let me use this opportunity to warn perpetrators of smuggling, duty evasion and other forms of criminality frowned upon by the Customs and Excise Management Act, CEMA, and other extant laws, that Apapa Command will only facilitate legitimate trade” 

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NCS Appoints CSC Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada As National Public Relations Officer

    CSC ABDULLAHI ALIYU MAIWADA

NCS Appoints CSC Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada As National Public Relations Officer

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Comptroller-General of Customs Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (Rtd) CFR has approved the appointment of CSC Abdullahi Aliyu Maiwada as the National Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Customs Service. He is to take over from Comptroller Timi Bomodi who has since been redeployed to Kiri-Kiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Area Command as the Customs Area Controller.

CSC Maiwada takes over from Comptroller Timi Bamodi who has since been redeployed to Kiri-Kiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Area Command as the Customs Area Controller.

CSC Maiwada who holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education/Geography and a Master’s Degree in Environmental Management from Bayero University Kano, He also holds a Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree in Mass-Communication from Crescent University Abeokuta.

CSC Maiwada was enlisted into Nigeria Customs Service as Cadet ASC in 2011. He had a stint as the Zonal Public Relations Officer Zone “B’ Headquarters Kaduna, Public Relations Officer Ogun Command (now Ogun I & II Area Commands).

In 2020 he was deployed to Headquarters and served as the pioneer Liaison Officer of the Nigeria Customs Broadcasting Network and later deputized the out-gone National Public Relations Officer from January 2022 to February 2023.

To fully embrace the service of public relations and the dynamics it offers, CSC Abdullahi Maiwada is an Associate Member of the National Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), and also holds a full membership in the Association of Communication Scholars and Professionals of Nigeria, ACSPN.

He has attended numerous courses relating to Customs Operations, Trade Facilitation, Public Relations, Strategic Communication, and Leadership.

As a consummate and seasoned Officer, he is a recipient of the 2020 World Customs Organisation, WCO, meritorious award.

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NDIC buoys depositors' confidence in banking system

NDIC buoys depositors' confidence in banking system

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) has assured members of the public, particularly the teeming populace in the Medium, Small and Micro Enterprise (MSME) sector and others in the informal segment of the nation's economy that the safest, smartest and most prudent place to keep their money is in the formal banking system because the corporation protects bank deposits.

Giving the assurance at the 34th Enugu International Trade Fair, the Managing Director/Chief Executive of NDIC, Mr. Bello Hassan, stressed that the general public should know that their deposits are safe and that in the unusual event of a bank failure, NDIC  is there to protect the depositors, especially the small savers.

In his words: "The Corporation protects depositors through the discharge of its mandate in four critical ways namely: by guaranteeing deposits in banks; by supervising the banks in conjunction with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to ensure that they are run in safe and efficient manner in line with extant laws and regulations; by resolving issues of distress in banks to reduce instances of failure; and by ensuring orderly and efficient liquidation of failed banks to prevent disruptions to the payment system.

"It is worthy to note that the Corporation has been successfully and efficiently discharging its mandates from inception till date, living up to its public policy objectives and contributing to financial system stability. For instance, in the aspect of Deposit Guaranty, we are happy to state that NDIC has been highly responsive in providing coverage to all eligible deposits and accounts as they evolve in our banking system. 

Apart from depositors of Deposit Money Banks, DMBs, Primary Mortgage Banks, PMBs, and Microfinance Banks, MFBs, the Corporation has also been responsive by extending deposit insurance coverage to depositors of Non-Interest Banks, NIBs, subscribers of Mobile Money Operators, MMOs, and the recently introduced Payment Service Banks, PSBs.  

Depositors of DMBs, PMBs, PSBs and subscribers of MMOs are insured up to maximum limit of N500,000.00 per depositor per bank while those of MFBs are guaranteed up to a maximum limit of N200,000.00 per depositor per bank.

"Arising from the foregoing, the NDIC likes to reiterate to members of the public, particularly the teaming populace in the Medium, Small and Micro Enterprise (MSME) sector, and others in the informal segment of our economy that the safest, smartest and most prudent place to keep your money is in the formal banking system because the NDIC protects your bank deposits. Such deposits also enjoy the benefit of effective regulation and supervision of relevant authorities, and take people’s hard earned money beyond the ambit of illegal fund managers and loan sharks that currently awash the investment landscape and fleecing unsuspecting members of public. 

"However, as the unscrupulous elements get more and more creative in their ignoble acts, and as the NDIC and other regulatory bodies device more ingenious approaches to tackling their menace. It is pertinent for the Corporation to continue to sensitize the public on their expected roles towards protecting their bank deposits." 

 The NDIC boss advised depositors to ensure that their phones have strong password and should not share their bank mobile app password with third parties; ensure no one is watching when they enter their PIN to perform transactions; ensure their token is secure and other parties do not have access to it; and ensure their debit card number and CVV are not exposed to people. 

He also warned against investment offers with quick and arbitrarily high returns.

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