Customs CG Hosts Members of National Trade Facilitation Committee

Customs CG Hosts Members of National Trade Facilitation Committee 

By: Bisi Akingbade

 

The Ag. Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR,  has receives members of the National Trade Facilitation Committee at the Headquarters of Nigeria Customs Service, Abuja.

 

The visit according to the chairman of the committee, SA Audi, told the CG that they were at the CGC’s office to congratulate him on his appointment as the Comptroller-General of Customs and also to seek his partnership to achieve the targeted goals of facilitating trade.

 

“Let me start by congratulating you on your appointment and I wish to reiterate that with your loads of experience, expertise as well as leadership qualities, this organization will attain great heights.”

 

He told the CGC that “part of the reason we are here is to look for Customs collaboration in developing and implementing policies that will ease the clearance, rapid release of goods for import and exports, especially for compliant traders.”

 

The Chairman, however, expressed readiness to play critical roles towards achieving the core mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service, adding that “it is important that we continue to work together to enhance trade facilitation in Nigeria.” 

Speaking about World Trade Policies, Mr. Audi briefed the Ag. CGC that the committee has drafted a trade facilitation roadmap document, which according to him, will help guide the implementation of the policies.

Responding, the Ag. Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, commended SA Audu's led team for visiting the Nigeria Customs Service to strengthen their cordial relationship and proffer solutions to challenges bedevilling trade in Nigeria.

The Ag. CGC assured the entourage of Customs' total commitment and support, adding that “I have embarked on a lot of consultations with stakeholders because partnering with stakeholders is part of my priorities.”

“If I may start addressing your challenges, I wish to inform you that Nigeria Customs Service will gladly respond to your suggestions. I assure you that as soon as we relocate to our new Headquarters, Customs will assign a place for you to settle in.”

The Committee membership has spread across organizations such as Customs, NAFDAC, Police, NDLEA, Ministry of Transport, FIRS, SON, CBN, NNPC, NASEMA, NACCIMA, amongst others.

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Customs: Appoints New Management Team.

Customs: Appoints New Management Team.

Ag. CGC,  Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR

By: Bisi Akingbade

Following the appointment of the Acting Comptroller General of Customs 

Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR on 19 June 2023 and the retirement of some 

management members in the Service, the Commander in Chief of the Armed 

Forces Federal Republic Nigeria, President Bola Ahmad Tinubu GCFR has 

approved the appointment of the following Deputy Comptroller Generals,  DCGs, and  Assistant Comptroller Generals, ACGs.

In a press release signed by the. Chief Superintendent of Custom/National Public Relations Officer, Abdul lathi Maiwada enumerated the approval of the following officers: DCG FO Okun, DCG MBA Musa, DCG A Hamisu, ACG K Olumoh, ACG AB Mohammed and ACG A Alajogun

While thanking the retired members of the management for their meritorious 

service, the Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale 

Adeniyi MFR congratulated the newly appointed Officers and charged them to 

redouble their efforts to ensure the Service achieves greater heights in its 

mandates of revenue generation, suppression of smuggling and trade facilitation.

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ICAN frowns at plans to review up electricity tariff

ICAN frowns at plans to review up electricity tariff 

...Recommends tax breaks, other incentives to Discos

By: Bisi Akingbade

Recognizing the effect of macroeconomic policy decisions such as the removal of petrol subsidy and  unification of the foreign exchange rates, Nigerians are still grappling with,  the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN, has recommended the deferment of electricity rate increase to a future period.

ICAN, an accountancy organisation in Nigeria, with over 60,000 members said in a press statement signed by its President and Chairman, Governing Board, Dr. Innocent Iweka Okwuosa that the proposed increases at this time would further worsen the plight of the masses and push more Nigerians into multi dimensional poverty. 

The body stated further that the increase would significantly increase the cost of doing business, particularly for SMEs, warning that these enterprises may be unable to pass on the additional costs to their customers by increasing the risk of business closures, and further worsening the unemployment rate.  

It recommended that government and National Energy Regulatory Commission, NERC, should consider additional short-term tax breaks and other incentives to the Distribution Companies , as a form of productions focused subsidy (rather than consumption-focused subsidy), as an alternative to rate hike.

ICAN added that the Discos would need to demonstrate better accountability and transparency in governance and reporting, an area chartered accountants can provide valuable support.

It also recommended that Discos should invest further in their distribution network to reduce technical losses  and build a platform for sustainable electricity distribution.

The body of accountants said that its members possess the expertise and experience to support the Commission and Discos in providing deep insights on the inputs, market conditions and assumptions related to the proposed price increases. 

The Institute added that it stands ready and offers its support to the 

Commission in its efforts to ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability in the electricity 

sector. 

The Institute which membership cuts across the public and private sectors, small, medium and large organisations, local and multinational, stated that key decisions by the government and regulatory authorities have significantly impact on members, and the organisations they represent. 

Furthermore, ICAN said it has a public interest mandate to support and contribute to the conception, development and implementation of government and regulatory policies aimed at improving the quality of Iives of Nigerians, and to improve the ease of doing business in the country.

The institute claimed that it is on these bases that it has reviewed the application for rates review by the electricity distribution companies, and presented its position.

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Freight Forwarders Seeks Attention of Ag. CGC To Discuss Operational Challenges

Freight Forwarders Seeks Attention of Ag. CGC To Discuss Operational Challenges

By: Bisi Akingbade

Chairman of National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, NAGAFF,  Tin can Island Chapter, Chief Emeka Paul Chiedozie is urgently appealing to Acting Comptroller General of Customs, ACG Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, to call a town hall meeting were he would have enough time hear directly from Freight Forwarders their operational Challenges.

While speaking on behalf of his members, in Lagos today, he said solutions and suggestions from freight forwarders who are experts and practising in the field will be who more useful than those who sits under Air-conditioning office and use pen and paper to package petitions or recommendations. 

He said "CGC please come and speak directly with practicing Freight Forwarders that are generating the revenue, let's rob mind, the current level of clearing one 40ft  container from the port is almost more than what's inside the container and very frustrating". 

Chiedozie who is also the Managing Director/ CEO of Seagold Limited has commended the Tin-can Island Port Customs Area Controller, CAC, of the command, Comptroller Adekunle Oloyede for encouraging Freight Forwarders into exports business.

This commendation is coming on the hills of the success in which the CAC said his Command recorded a total of 291,436.43 metric tonnes in the first half of this 2023.

"am very excited that within a few months of Federal Government lifted the embargo in on exports cargos, the Non-oil export  has grown with figures (153,189.93) metric tonnes through Free On Board (FOB) in the first half of this 2023 from the (138,246.5) metric tonnes it recorded in the corresponding in last year 2022, NCS statistics".

He said "with the increasing rate of bigger vessels coming to Tin Can Island ports of recent am not surprised on the revenue generated from January to June 2023, the goods exported through Tin Can Island Port Complex, TICPC, increased from 138,246.5 (MT) to 291,436.43 (MT) representing an increase of 110.8% when compared to 2022, NCS statistics report".

"I can remember few months ago, I encourage my NAGAFF Tin Can members to diversify into exports, those who took advantage of that opportunity, are all smiling and thanking me today, Life is all about opportunities".

"Freight Forwarding business, is meant for the professionals, those who are hard working and knowns the technicalities involves in clearing. That's why I encourage all my Young NAGAFF Chapter members to learn the job before running after money. With your job experience, a lots of people would see you as consultant, engaged you each time they make mistake during declaration."

"During Cargo declaration, don't be too fast, ask questions, seek professional advice, from any of the NAGAFF Executives or senior freight forwarders, my contact lines are available 24hrs so that you wouldn't be losing your profit and cargoes to the Federal Government." He advised.

Chiegozie, a veteran Freight Forwarder for decades, also suggested that Cocoa Butter, Cocoa Beans, Cashew Nut, Sesame Seeds, Rubber, Empty bottles and copper ingots and woods are agricultural products that are exportable and lucrative.

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MAJAN Condoles With NPA MD, Mr.Mohammed Bello-Koko

MAJAN Condoles With NPA MD, Mr.Mohammed Bello-Koko

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Maritime Journalists Association of Nigeria,  MAJAN, heartily condole  with the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Ports Authority NPA, over the passing on of his dear Father, Alhaji Muhammad Koko.

MAJAN shares in your grief and prays God to give you and the Koko family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

May Almighty Allah accept his Soul and forgive him his sins.

Please kindly accept our deeply felt condolences.

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APAPA CUSTOMS: STEPS UP COMPLIANCE THROUGH SYSTEM PROFILING, MANIFEST TRACKING, COLLECTS N502BN

APAPA CUSTOMS: STEPS UP COMPLIANCE THROUGH SYSTEM PROFILING, MANIFEST TRACKING, COLLECTS N502BN

By: Bisi Akingbade

Nigeria Customs Service Apapa Area 1 Command under the leadership of Comptroller Auwal Baba  Mohammed has achieved an increased level of compliance by importers, exporters, and their agents through deliberate system profiling and manifest tracking.

Under the CAC's direct supervision , dedicated officers of the command are  using the system profiling yardstick to gauge the integrity levels of importers and consignees. 

This has helped in treating traders in line with their previous transaction records, which is reassuring that compliance pays through time saving and cost efficiency.  

Controller Muhammed urged all port users to be complaint and advised that compliant traders are shielded from the risk of getting their consignments seized; imposition of penalties after demand notices and possible arrests for prosecution as the case may require.

According to Comptroller Mohammed, non compliant traders spend more time and money paying for terminal space due to demurrage plus higher cost due to DN"s and penalties.

He has also raised the level of electronic manifest tracking to accelerate trade facilitation leveraging on available technology.

He  described this feat as a masterstroke in the journey towards trade facilitation and ease of doing business.

Comptroller  Muhammed also said the command has collected a total of N502,987,516,219.26 from January 2023 to date and made 16 seizures worth a duty paid value of N1.4 billion within the same period.

He described the  revenue collection and seizures made as fallouts of increased compliance and therefore urged officers to redouble  their efforts in revenue collection, trade facilitating and strict enforcement of anti smuggling activities.

The command made a collection of N9.2b on July 20, 2023. This feat is the highest daily collection it ever achieved in its existence since the port was established

The seizures made within the period comprised of prohibited drugs, used tyres, rice, vegetable oil, and  sundry items.

It is noteworthy that the command made a seizure of two pistols inside one groupage cargo.  One suspect is arrested, and the matter is undergoing investigation.

Muhammed stated at a recent monthly meeting of Terminal/Unit Heads,  exhorted all officers of the command to sustain and improve upon the level of discipline the command has been noted for under his watch.

He characterised discipline as the foundation of good work etiquette, such as punctuality, diligent application of Nigeria Customs Service Act, NCSA, 2023 and other noble virtues that align with the law.

He further stressed that Nigeria has high expectations of the NCS and that the service is looking up to Apapa Command for its highest collection.

Mohammed charged officers men of the Command to use their knowledge of the job and the rules guiding the service  to facilitate legitimate trade.

He added " As we facilitate trade for compliant traders, let's be wary of the possibility  of releasing uncustom goods in error or in the guise of facilitating trade

"I hereby charge you to do better in the second half of 2023 as the glory for the successes recorded in the first half belongs to all of us" the CAC said.

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NPA: Raises Alarm Over Extortion Along Tin Can Port Access Road

NPA: Raises Alarm Over Extortion Along Tin Can Port Access Road

M.D, NPA, Muhammed Bello- Koko

By: Bisi Akingbade

The management of Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA, has raised alarm on increasing extortion along the access roads of the Lagos and Tin Can Island Port Complexes.

The Managing Director, Muhammed Bello- Koko said on the eve of the port corridor clearance operations carried out in collaboration with Lagos State Government earlier this month, “these acts of extortion and allied illegalities are injurious to trade facilitation, which is our core function and we cannot allow these nefarious characters make nonsense of the gateways to the national economy which the ports constitute”.

“We had in the past visited punitive measures on our staff who were complicit in such unethical practices, and I want to reiterate that once we are confronted with evidence of any our staff involved in these acts of sabotage, we would sanction them in line with our employees’ handbook, which has zero tolerance for such malfeasance”.

Bello-Koko enumerated the support of the police in tackling the extortion menace while receiving the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Idowu Owohunwa earlier this month at the NPA Headquarters.  “the jurisdictional rule that restricts the powers of the Port Authority Police Command, PAPC to the Port premises, is the more reason why we are calling for increased synergy between PAPC and officers of the Lagos State Police Command”.

The Nigerian Ports Authority under Koko had completed the perimeter fencing of the Tincan Island Port to curb unauthorized access to the port premises.

However, the sanity achieved by this measure is localized within the Port, whilst majority of these illegalities happen along the port access road which is not within the NPA’s purview.

It will be recalled that the International Centre for Investigative Reporting, ICIR, had in March, 2023 published a video footage showing the assault these extortionists visit on trucks inbound and outbound the port corridor.

The Authority’s fact finding has identified flash points of extortion ranging from 500 Naira to as high as 5,000 Naira and the mode of perpetration.

Nigerian Ports Authority however solicits the collaboration of sister government agencies operating along the port corridor to sustainably tackle this menace that is impeding ease of doing business around our ports.

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TIN CAN CUSTOMS COMMAND RECORDS EXPONENTIAL REVENUE ON EXPORT IN SIX MONTHS

TIN CAN CUSTOMS COMMAND RECORDS EXPONENTIAL REVENUE ON EXPORT IN SIX MONTHS

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Nigeria Customs Service, Tin Can Island Port Command has recorded an impressive revenue drive on non-oil export with an increasing  291,436.43  Metric tonnes, MT, through Free On Board, FOB, between January and June 2023.

Customs Area Controller, Tin Can Island Command , Comptroller Adekunle Oloyede in a statement on Thursday, said in terms of volume, MT, and value, FOB, the export trade recorded an exponential growth within the period under review.

According to the press release signed by the Public Relations Officer, Tin Can Island Customs, Ngozi Okwara, said  comparatively, between January to June 2023, the tonnage of the goods exported through Tin Can Island Port Complex, TICPC, increased from 138,246.5, MT, to 291,436.43, MT ; representing an increase of 110.8% over the previous year under review.

The Area Controller similarly, noted that there was an increase in the FOB value of the year exports, noting that the FOB increased from N110,447,250,811 in the first half of 2022 to N182,333,764,943 in the first half of 2023, representing an increase of 65%.

He stated that increase of commodities exported from the command essentially includes agricultural  and other allied products namely; Cocoa Butter, Cocoa Beans, Cashew Nut, Sesame Seeds, Rubber, Empty bottles and copper ingots.

He explained that within the period under review, the Command participated in several symposiums which includes CBN RT200fx where a lot of benefits to export trade were highlighted.and incentise non-oil export.

Highlighting revenue collected within the period under review, Comptroller Oloyede added that" The Command recorded a total collection of Two Hundred and Sixty Billion, Two Hundred and Fifty-Six Million, Nine Hundred and Forty-Two  Thousand,  One Hundred and Twenty Naira, Sixty-Nine Kobo   (N260,256,942,120.69) in the first half of the year under review.   

"The first half collection in 2023 runs at a variation with the first half of 2022 with a total collection of Two Hundred and Seventy-Four Billion, Three Hundred and Twenty Million, Seven Hundred and Fifteen Thousand, One Hundred and Seventy-Eight Naira, Seventy-Eight Kobo  (N274,320,715,178.78) on a difference of Fourteen Billion, Sixty-Three Million, Seven Hundred and Seventy-Three Thousand, Fifty-Eight Naira, Nine Kobo (N14,063,773,058.09).

He further breakdown the revenue collection within the period, the Customs boss explained that"The sum of Forty-Two Billion, Five Hundred and Thirty-Six Million, Three Hundred and Thirty-Six Thousand, Thirty-Eight Naira, Eleven Kobo (42,536,336,038.11) was collected in the month of January 2023.

"A total collection of Forty-One Billion, Five Hundred and Eighteen Million, Seven Hundred and Thirty-Eight Thousand, Six Hundred and Forty-Nine Naira, Nine Kobo (N41,518,738,649.09) was collected in the month of February 2023.

" In the month of March 2023, the Command recorded a total collection of Forty-Two Billion, Eight Hundred and Three Million, One Hundred and Fourteen Thousand, Five Hundred and Forty-Four Naira, Eleven Kobo (N42,803,114,544.11).

"While in the months of April, May and June, the revenue recorded are Thirty-Six Billion, Five Hundred and Eleven Million, Six Hundred and Eighty-One Thousand, Fifty-Seven Naira, Nine Kobo (N36,511,681,057.09), Forty-Six Billion, Four Hundred and Eighty-Five Million, Six Hundred and Thirty-Nine Thousand, Seven Hundred and Twenty-Eight Naira, Seventy-Nine Kobo (N46,485,639,728.79) and  Fifty Billion, Four Hundred and One Million, Four Hundred and Thirty-Two Thousand, One Hundred and Three Naira Fifty Kobo (N50,401,432,103.50) respectively.

He added that "It is imperative and worthy of note to mention the critical roles played by the Customs Intelligence Unit, the Valuation Unit, Customs Police Unit and Post Clearance Audit for their sustained interventions which translated to the blockage of revenue leakages by enhanced compliance towards the attainment of the revenue drive.

On the Command's enforcement crusade, Comptroller Oloyede stated that, "Tin Can Island Command Anti-smuggling drive yielded remarkable successes in the first half of 2023.  Being the lead agency at the Port, the Enforcement Unit coordinated several anti-smuggling activities in synergy with other critical stakeholders in the trade value chain.

"The synergy led to the arrest of a total of 1442 Packets of Colorado Indica with a combined weight of 519.45kg extracted during 100% joint physical examination of eight (8) containers.  

"The total street value according to NDLEA sources is N721,000,000.00.  The means of conveyance in these cases, with the substance and two (2) suspects were handed over to NDLEA in strict compliance with the Service Headquarters’ directive.

Comptroller Oloyede stated that command has zero tolerance for the importation of unwholesome goods such as drugs, arms and ammunition adding that the mandate from the Service as well as the protection of the Nigeria Society is the driving force.

"  We have continually put in proactive measures aimed at keeping our frontiers free from illicit and illegitimate trade,"he noted.

Meanwhile,  the Area Controller also  heartily congratulated the Service for a smooth transition which occurred recently and sincerely appreciated the Comptroller-General of Customs BASHIR ADEWALE ADENIYI MFR and his management team for all the supports the Command have been enjoying from the Headquarters

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Customs Sets To Streamline Checkpoints On Seme Road

Customs Sets To Streamline Checkpoints On Seme Road

By Bisi Akingbade

The Acting Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has assured stakeholders and communities in Seme border area that he will be working with other sister agencies to streamline checkpoints  for free movement of legitimate trade and people. 

Speaking while on official visit to Badagry Seme Customs Command, CG Adeniyi stressed that national security is the business of all and that it should not be left for security agencies alone, charging the communities to be providing useful information that will help to improve security in the area. 

His words: "When it comes to border security, management and others, the Customs plays a very important role. But of course, we know that we cannot play this role successfully without collaborating with other agencies who also have their mandates in and around the borders. We must draw strength from the complementing our operations.

 "This should be a collective charge for all of us. I charge us, let us work together to see how we can rationalize these checkpoints. Bearing in mind, of course, some peculiarities for our agencies. I understand that the situation for one agency might be different from the other, but I believe that if we sit together and map the entire corridor from here to Badagry and from here to Mile 2, we should be able to find a way to see how we can rationalize this. 

Adeniyi also urged stakeholders at Seme border to help with credible information that will be of immense benefits to Customs and stakeholders on illegal activities in and around the border post.

He added that border opening will be subjected to review.

In his remarks, the Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi stated that the Seme border accounts for about 70 per cent of the transit traffic in the ECOWAS sub-region.

Comptroller Dera noted that the revenue target for the year 2023 amount to N1.96billion  which represents 67 percent of its given target.

“Several factors have been adjudged to hamper trade between Nigeria and her proximate neighbour within the sub-region especially transit trade across the countries and along the corridor. There have been several complaints by operators against the closure of the borders, the non-adherence to transit agreements signed under the ECOWAS, World Trade Organisation, WTO, World Customs Organisation, WCO, and the General Agreement on Trade and Tariff.

“As I conclude, let me mention that the facility we have here need constant upgrading, the vehicle and truck parks need to be paved, the flood lights need to be replaced. On our part, effort is being made to remove the unapproved checkpoints along the corridor. In the same vein, we thank the Federal Government for the intervention in repairing the road along the corridor and leading into Seme-Krake JBP".

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Ag. CGC Calls For More Collaborations From Maritime Stakeholders

Ag. CGC Calls For More  Collaborations From Maritime Stakeholders

AG. CGC. BASHIR ADEWALE ADENIYI, MFR.

By: Bisi Akingbade

Nigeria Customs Service has called on all the maritime stakeholders for serious collaboration on issue of economic development.

The Ag. Comptroller of Customs in his address of welcome said this during his first official visit as Acting Comptroller General of Customs to Apapa Area 1 Customs Command, Lagos.

"Let me express my sincere gratitude to all our stakeholders. One thing I want to pay serious attention to is that of collaboration. 

"As strong as we think we are, as strategic as we may be, Customs can not do it alone. We have to work with other strategic stakeholders, like the port authority, terminal operators, Customs agents, those who have concession to run with us, scanner operators etc

"It is a psyche and whatever affect one part affect the other part. So we are going to give recognition to all the stakeholders wherever they are, those who worked with us we are going to carry them along.

"We are going to encouraged you to walk at our pace because sometimes we might get very very exuberance and want to move at a pace. Once a while we will look back and see if you are catching up, once in a while we will stopped but we will not allowed your own delay to delay us unnecessarily.

"Customs agents, importers plays a very important role in the administration of the port and this why we believed we must regularly, periodically create spark of engagement on issues

He stressed further "We are going to developed and shared understanding in everything we do in as much as we believed that some of your operations may be motivated. Interest of the nation must come first. The interest of Nigeria must come first in everything we do".

Dr. Farinto while speaking on behalf of the freight forwarders, he commended the Ag  CG for disbanding the strike force. 

Farinto said the freight forwarders need the AG. CG to redefined the role of Customs police.

He stated that it is high time to look into the issue of fluctuating exchange rate and find a way forward.

Farinto concluded that  the Ag. CGC should issue port orders, when it is necessary.

 

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NSC PAY COURTESY VISIT TO APAPA LOCAL GOVERNMENT, INTRODUCES NEW TOOLS

NSC PAY COURTESY VISIT TO APAPA LOCAL GOVERNMENT,  INTRODUCES NEW TOOLS

EMMANUEL JIME, CEO, NSC, MOSES FADIPE, DIR, CHAIRMAN PSTT, HON. IDOWU SENBANJO, CHAIRMAN, APAPA LOCAL GOVERNMENT

By: Bisi Akingbade

Nigerian Shippers Council, NSC, has paid a courtesy visit on  the Chairman of the Apapa Local Government, Hon. Idowu Adejumoke Senbanjo, to ensure more collaboration and efficiency in service delivery at the ports.

The Executive Secretary/CEO of NSC, Hon. Emmanuel Jime, during the courtesy visit commended the  Chairman, Apapa Local government for extending a jhands of fellowship to NSC since his assumption as the Executive Secretary/ CEO.

 “The NSC, in its mandate, has the responsibility of ensuring efficiency in the delivery of services at the ports. What that means in effect is that we have to partner and collaborate with all stakeholders to implement such efficiency, which I believe the Apapa Local Government also shares this vision. 

"We have developed various tools to ensure the delivery of such a mandate. One of those tools, in the wisdom of the Federal Government, was the establishment and delivery of a port document called: The Nigerian Port Process Manual, NPPM.

“The NPPM is a harmonisation of all the Standard Operating Processes, SOP, of all  stakeholders in the port industry in order to facilitate the conduct of seamless businesses in our ports. The Federal Government, in its wisdom, selected the NSC as the lead agency for the implementation of the NPPM.

“Again, the government went further to establish the Ports Standing Task Team, PSTT. Like the NPPM, the PSTT is populated by different agencies of government with the Shippers Council selected as the Lead Agency in its implementation. The PSTT is set up to enable the implementation of the NPPM.

“In the course of implementing the PSTT, we need to partner with all stakeholders in the Port City council, and there is no better partner than the Local Government itself.

“Apapa Local Government has been   collaborating and supporting the PSTT to implement its mandate seamlessly, we a like Oliver Twist, we want more collaborations. We want to say thank you and also ask for more partnerships

NSC boss confirmed that the NSC has started the evacuation of debris from Apapa and its environment.  " As indicated in the course of this courtesy visit, corporate social responsibility is an imperative for any corporate agency that works in any community, and as far as Apapa Local government is concerned, cleaning of this environment is key component on how we can deliver on health concerns of residents of this port city. And I can confirmed authoritatively that NSC in partnership with Apapa Local government is involved in this debris evacuation we' have spoken about.

Jime, responding to the issue of collection of illegal tolls from trucks and trailers he said "well the fact of the matter is that in totality our concerns is to ensure that there is easy access into the  ports and exit out of the port. That is the mandate of NSC to ensure  efficiency of service  delivery in the port.

In her opening remarks, the Chairman, Apapa Local Government , Hon. Idowu Adejumoke Senbanjo, commended  NSC and that Apapa local government will continue to collaborate in several areas to ensure easy access to the port. "We will continue to partner with NSC and relevant government agencies to ensure smooth access to Apapa. 

She further said that the  Federal Government agencies based in Apapa should  come out to do more CSR projects to make Apapa a more beautiful place.

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NIMASA: Director of Special Duties announces Father's Burial Plan

NIMASA: Director of Special Duties announces Father's Burial Plan

The Osamgbi family of Umu Nnikwu Village in Asaba Delta State, has announced the funeral arrangement of their Father and Diokpa Nnikwu, Ogbueshi Alexander Chukwuma Osamgbi.

The Late Ogbueshi Osamgbi, who passed on recently in Asaba at the glorious age of 96, will be buried on Friday July 28,2023 at Nnikwu Village, Umuaji Asaba, after a requiem Mass at St. Patrick's Catholic Church, West End, off Nnebisi Road, Asaba by 10am. This will be followed by a reception at the Dome Event Centre, Okpanam Road, GRA, Asaba.

Diokpa Osamgbi, is survived by many children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, amongst whom are Mr Isichei Osamgbi, Director of Special Duties at Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency NIMASA, Mrs. Uzor Eluaka, Vice Principal, Zappa Basic Secondary School, Asaba, Lady Ndidi Okogba, of the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, Sir Peter Osamgbi, a businessman and Mrs. Eruke Omoyowuchowu Titiloye of the Coco Research Institute of Nigeria, CRIN. 

According to the family, preceding the burial a vigil Mass will hold in his honour, on Thursday July 27th, 2023 at Catholic Church of The Assumption(Zappa), Umuagu, Asaba, while the final traditional rites commences on Sunday July 30th at Nnikwu, Umuaji, Asaba, after the Thanksgiving Mass at Church of The Assumption (Zappa).

Ogbueshi Osamgbi a retired Civil Servant and community leader, who had worked across the country was a devote Christian of the Catholic faith, who spent most of his time in charity work and service to his community, to the admiration of all who knew him.

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Customs: Intercepts 31 Rifles, Sacks of Charcoal Containing Pump Action Riffles with 174 live cartridges

Customs:  Intercepts 31 Rifles, Sacks of Charcoal Containing  Pump Action Riffles with 174 live cartridges

By: Bisi Akingbade

Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has announced the interception of smuggled arms and ammunition while on duty at various Commands and formations.

The Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR,  while addressing the journalists made this disclosure at the Federal Operations Unit, FOU, Lagos.

Adeniyi stated that the service has aligned with the significance role in contributing to the overall objectives of the President Tinubu led Administration,

He said "Ladies and gentlemen of the media, since assuming the role of Acting Comptroller General, our dedicated officers and men have demonstrated unwavering commitment to their responsibilities. Their diligence and perseverance have been the cornerstone of our operations. Our actions within the NCS have been driven by a deep sense of purpose and guided by the mantra of renewed hope, which underpins the current administration's vision. We recognize the significance of our role in contributing to the overall objectives of the President Tinubu led Administration, as articulated in the Road Map of the Policy Advisory Council document. The declaration of a state of emergency in revenue generation and national security has further aligned our activities with the government's overarching goals.

"Pursuant to this commitment, I stand before you today to highlight the recent achievements of the NCS in our ongoing efforts to suppress smuggling and safeguard national security. Some of our dedicated and diligent officers uncovered some smuggled arms and ammunition while on duty at various Commands and formations.

He said during a joint operation with the Nigeria Police, the Department of State Security, the National Drug Law Enforcement and Administration, and the Customs Intelligence Unit at the Ports Terminal and Multi Services Limited Command, conducted a thorough physical examination of a 40ft container  and discovered the concealment of 10 dangerous arms and various rounds of live ammunition inside plastic drums.

The seized items includes, 3 new Pump Action rifles and one new unit of an armed rifle, 6 new different makes of pistols, One new millennium G2 pistol, One new sarsilmaz SAR-9X pistol, One new Lugger Security-9 pistol, One new Taurus Banbridge G3C pistol, One new SCCY CPX-2 pistol, and One new Taurus (63 pistol) c.

Others are 14 empty magazinesd and 442 rounds of live ammunition4.    

He further said the clearing agent, Mr Shokunbi Olanrewaju of Shooler Global International Ltd and Mr Joseph Nwadiodor, who was expected to take delivery of the container, are currently detained as suspects in connection with the seizure.  

The ACG said  "Similarly, within the same period, the Tincan Island Port Command of the Service, while acting on credible intelligence; a 1x40ft container was also subjected to 100% physical examination with the relevant security agencies at the ports. 

"The physical examination uncovered 18 arms, packets of cartridges and rounds of live ammunition inside plastic drums, 6 different makes of pistols, Two, Sar9 Sarsilmarz Pistols One Ruger American Pistol and Three (3) Taurus G3c – Bainbridge Pistols, 12 different makes of riffles, Five (5) Rz17hd Rifles, One (1) Gamo Rifle, Five (5) Pump Action Rifles and One (1) Rz17 Tactical Rifle)c.

Other items intercepted at Tin Can Island Port are 10 packets of cartridgesd, 2 packets of 9mm ammunitione, 100 rounds of 9mm Winchester ammunitions, 1 carton of Frontier cartridges, 2 packets of Buckshot ammunitions.

"Again, during a routine patrol along Owode/Ajilete Axis of Ogun State by officers of the Joint Border Patrol Team Sector 2, on Wednesday 12 July 2023, intercepted an unregistered Toyota Camry loaded with six sacks of charcoal, which was used to conceal three (3) pump action riffles with 174 live cartridges. 

He said the driver of the vehicle, who knew the content he was conveying vis-a-vis the attendant consequences of his action before the law, jumped into the bush and escaped arrest.

"In summary, a total of thirty-one (31) rifles were intercepted within the first two weeks of July 2023.9. Investigation into the seizures is inconclusive. The outcome of our investigations together with the seizures will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution.

"Illicit arms obtained by non-state actors have boosted the proliferation of small arms and ammunition across the country. This accounts for the increase in violent kidnappings, robberies, and mass killings in society.

"Let me state at this point that the Service has re-strategized its operations, while our officers have raised their levels of professionalism, and have keyed into the mantra of renewed hope aimed at facilitating legitimate trade. In doing this, we are assuring all compliant traders and importers that they have nothing to fear.

"We have re-injected new tactics to tackle the economic and security menace caused by recalcitrant importers and their agents. The Service’s human resources and logistics are collectively harnessed to combat and prevent economic sabotage.

"I implore importers and agents to be patriotic by making sincere declarations, and to be properly guided by the import/export prohibition lists. I also urged the public to see security as a collective responsibility. We will appreciate information of illegal importation and cross border movement of dangerous weapons used to create mayhem in our nation" 

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Corruption: ICAN to Collaborate With SCUML, NFIU, Others

Corruption: ICAN to Collaborate With SCUML, NFIU, Others

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN, has expressed its willingness to partner with the Special Control Unit Against Money Laundering, SCUML, the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, NFIU, the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, FRC, and other stakeholders to eliminate corruption in the country. 

 The 59th President of the Institute, Dr. Innocent Okwuosa, FCA made the commitment in Lagos during a retreat of the Governing Council of the Institute. 

At the retreat where representatives of the SCUML, NFIU, FRC and the Big Four Accounting firms were in attendance, the ICAN President stated that the retreat was organized to review the Institute’s processes in view of its upward trajectory mandate to deepen its advocacy and thought leadership mandate in national development, among other initiatives.

The President seized the opportunity to appeal to SCUML to review some of its operational processes that make direct registration difficult, forcing stakeholders to register through consultants. 

He also promised that the Institute would leverage the template received from SCUML to implement market entry control checks on licensed firms.

In his submission, Mr. Matthew Enu, FCA who represented Mr. Daniel Isei, Director at SCUML stated that as a global standard setter, self–regulatory bodies, like ICAN, should take the necessary measures to prevent criminals or their associates from being professionally accredited or hold a significant, controlling interest or management function in accounting firms. 

He further urged ICAN to always partner law enforcement agents or relevant authorities in conducting background checks on intending licensees.

Executive Secretary of the Financial Reporting Council, FRC, Ambassador Shuaibu Adamu Ahmed, FCA, traced the origin of the Council to ICAN’s establishment of the then Nigerian Accounting Standards Board, NASB, which later metamorphosed to Financial Reporting Council. 

He commended ICAN for its immense roles and collaboration with FRC. “A good cordial relationship with relevant stakeholders in the Accountancy profession is important for growth and development of the profession in our country. The FRC is therefore urging the Professional Accountancy Bodies in the country to work with FRC for the good of the profession and the country at large,” he stated.

Similarly, the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit, NFIU, through its Head of Sanctions, Mr. Chinedum Odenyi posited that the Designated Non-Financial Business and Professions,  DNFBPs, are the most crucial and vulnerable to money laundering and terrorism financing.

 He therefore solicited for more interaction with ICAN to strengthen compliance with the relevant Anti Money Laundry/Combating the Financing of Terrorism/Counter Proliferation Financing, AML/CFT/CPF,  laws, regulations and guidelines to ensure there is clear understanding of obligations.

He also recommended establishing an effective system to identify ML/TF risks, have measures in place to mitigate those risks, and file Suspicious Transaction Reports, STRs, to the NFIU. These are part of the requirements for Nigeria to exit the Financial Action Task Force,  FATF, grey-list.

He further urged Financial Institutions and Designated Non-Financial Business and Professions, DNFBPs, to develop and implement robust processes and procedures for implementation of AML/CFT/CPF obligations with particular emphasis on Risk Assessment on Money Laundering & Associated predicate offences, stand alone Counter Financing of Terrorism, CFT, risk assessment, and establish measures for effective detection of politically exposed persons/their family members/close associate, among others.

At the end of the retreat, SCUML and NFIU sought the Institute’s collaboration in ensuring that Nigeria exits the grey listing by the Financial Action Task force, FATF.

The immediate past Country Partner of PwC, Mr. Uyi Akpata, in his submission assured the Institute of PwC’s partnership to promote high accounting Standards, enhance the competence of accountants’, discourage proliferation of accounting bodies and strengthen the profession’s role in national development.

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NAGAFF Condemns Plastic Wastes, Human Feaces Dropping On Tin Can Island Access Road

NAGAFF Condemns Plastic Wastes, Human Feaces  Dropping On Tin Can Island Access Road

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Chairman, National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, NAGAFF, Tin Can Island chapter, Forwarder Emeka Paul Chiedozie has condemned the indiscriminate dropping of plastic waste,

human feaces on the Tin Can Island access road which can cause epidemic if not tackled urgently.

Chiedozie, while speaking to journalists at Tin Can, Lagos, said the amount of plastic waste and human feaces along Tin Can Island access road and inside drainages can affects stakeholders'  health.

 "The air pollution is so bad that it can cause an epidemic. Most of the drainages are already blocked, stakeholders have not even started enjoying the road but waste has taken over some portions of the road. There is no maintenance on the road.

"I have advised NAGAFF Tin Can members and elders not to come to the port any day it rains heavily if they don't have much business within the port premises to do because the aftermath of the rain causes serious air pollution, most drainages that are blocked with plastic waste makes the road flooded.

"This road was reconstructed with tax payers' money to the tune of over N72 billion and if it is not maintained, stakeholders will also face the consequences. The road was reconstructed during the regime of former President Muhammadu Buhari."

He appealed to the Federal, Lagos state and local government to tackle this condemnable acts urgently so that it will not affect stakeholder's health.

He also appreciated the elders of the association in the chapter for their support since his assumption  as Chairman, NAGAFF Tin Can Island Chapter.

"l sincerely appreciate your prompt response despite the short notice given for this meeting. By God's grace, l will not disappoint you, let us continue to facilitate trade."

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NPA seeks funding partners for rehabilitation of port infrastructure

NPA seeks funding partners for rehabilitation of port infrastructure

 

    M.D, NPA, Muhammed Bello-Koko

By: Bisi Akingbade

 Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA,  is seeking funding partners for the rehabilitation of its port infrastructure which is the number one priority of the Authority, its Managing Director, Mr. Muhammed Bello-Koko has disclosed.

 Bello-Koko who was speaking at a breakfast  meeting on the collapsing Tin Can Port quay apron organized by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, MARAN,  noted that the issue of reconstruction of port infrastructure is very important and that NPA is not taking it lightly.

Represented by the General Manager in the Managing Director's office, Mr. Ayodele Durowaiye, the NPA helmsman stated that the Tin Can Island Port built in 1977 and the Apapa Port handle 60 to 65 per cent of cargo coming to Nigeria and therefore can't be taken with levity.

He disclosed that NPA has explored various options to fund rehabilitation of the port infrastructure and had discussed with some organisations to help drive the rehabilitation and renewal efforts as funding partners.

Against insinuations that  the port may suffer little or no patronage, he stated that though the facilities at Tin Can Port are bad but can still accommodate ships, noting that largest RORO vessel just came around and berthed successfully  at the port.

"There is infrastructural challenges but the situation is not so bad to the extent that people are avoiding the ports", he remarked.

He restated NPA's commitment to take specific steps to develop port infrastructure across the country with a focus on Tin Can Island Port.

In his contribution, a former Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Barr. Temisan Omatseye, decried the state of Tin Can Port, saying that it has become a mess.

Omatseye stated that the Lekki Deep Seaport is not a solution to the problem at hand as the problem being witnessed in Apapa and Tin Can Port will only be transferred to   Lekki. 

The former NIMASA boss said that if he has his way, he will close the gates of Apapa and Tin Can Ports and let barges and smaller vessels carry containers to Epe, Ikorodu, Warri, Koko, etc.

With this he believed that the trucks littering Apapa and its environs will disappear. 

 Speaking earlier, the President General, Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, MWUN, Prince Adewale Adeyanju, accused terminal operators of not believing in maintenance of standards.

Adeyanju who doubles  as the Deputy President of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, lamented that the terminal operators are not taking care of the facilities entrusted to them by the federal government and commended MARAN for bringing the issue of dilapidating Tin Can Port quay apron to the fore.

Adeyanju seized the occasion to call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appoint technocrats who are not aliens to port operations as heads of maritime agencies. 

In his remarks as the chairman of the occasion, the former President of National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, NAGAFF, Dr. Eugene Nweke, averred that the issue of decaying quay apron is a serious matter that should attract urgency in order for the port to sustain patronage.

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NPA seeks funding partners for rehabilitation of port infrastructure

NPA seeks funding partners for rehabilitation of port infrastructure 

        M.D, NPA, Muhammed Bello-Koko

By: Bisi Akingbade

 Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA,  is seeking funding partners for the rehabilitation of its port infrastructure which is the number one priority of the Authority, its Managing Director, Mr. Muhammed Bello-Koko has disclosed.

 Bello-Koko who was speaking at a breakfast  meeting on the collapsing Tin Can Port quay apron organized by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria, MARAN,  noted that the issue of reconstruction of port infrastructure is very important and that NPA is not taking it lightly.

Represented by the General Manager in the Managing Director's office, Mr. Ayodele Durowaiye, the NPA helmsman stated that the Tin Can Island Port built in 1977 and the Apapa Port handle 60 to 65 per cent of cargo coming to Nigeria and therefore can't be taken with levity.

He disclosed that NPA has explored various options to fund rehabilitation of the port infrastructure and had discussed with some organisations to help drive the rehabilitation and renewal efforts as funding partners.

Against insinuations that  the port may suffer little or no patronage, he stated that though the facilities at Tin Can Port are bad but can still accommodate ships, noting that largest RORO vessel just came around and berthed successfully  at the port.

"There is infrastructural challenges but the situation is not so bad to the extent that people are avoiding the ports", he remarked.

He restated NPA's commitment to take specific steps to develop port infrastructure across the country with a focus on Tin Can Island Port.

In his contribution, a former Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Barr. Temisan Omatseye, decried the state of Tin Can Port, saying that it has become a mess.

Omatseye stated that the Lekki Deep Seaport is not a solution to the problem at hand as the problem being witnessed in Apapa and Tin Can Port will only be transferred to   Lekki. 

The former NIMASA boss said that if he has his way, he will close the gates of Apapa and Tin Can Ports and let barges and smaller vessels carry containers to Epe, Ikorodu, Warri, Koko, etc.

With this he believed that the trucks littering Apapa and its environs will disappear. 

 Speaking earlier, the President General, Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, MWUN, Prince Adewale Adeyanju, accused terminal operators of not believing in maintenance of standards.

Adeyanju who doubles  as the Deputy President of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, lamented that the terminal operators are not taking care of the facilities entrusted to them by the federal government and commended MARAN for bringing the issue of dilapidating Tin Can Port quay apron to the fore.

Adeyanju seized the occasion to call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appoint technocrats who are not aliens to port operations as heads of maritime agencies. 

In his remarks as the chairman of the occasion, the former President of National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, NAGAFF, Dr. Eugene Nweke, averred that the issue of decaying quay apron is a serious matter that should attract urgency in order for the port to sustain patronage.

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Acting Customs CG Applauds President Bola Tinubu as ECOWAS Chairman

Acting Customs CG Applauds President Bola Tinubu as ECOWAS Chairman

...Says his Appointment will promote Regional Integration, Border Security.

By: Bisi Akingbade

Acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has congratulated President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his recent appointment as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States.

Ag. CGC Adewale Adeniyi MFR, who met with the President in a private visit on the 11th of July, 2023, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, expressed joy as his appointment coincided with his emergence as the Acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service. 

Adewale said he is hopeful that the President's appointment will bring better regional integration, cooperation, border security and coordinated monetary affairs.

 

According to him, part of the discussions with President Tinubu is to actively engage Customs administrations across the borders, particularly the strategic ones and collaborate to achieve common objectives of border security and regional integration. 

"I will be paying an official visit to the Republic of Benin, to have discussions with the Customs Administration of Benin to address the issues of border security, importation across the border, and more importantly, the deployment of technological solutions to very complex border problems," he added.

He also seized the opportunity to express profound gratitude to Mr President for finding him worthy to be the Acting Comptroller General of Customs while stating that the opportunity to meet with the President is fruitful and engaging. 

"Mr President is a very good listener. We had discussions regarding what Customs can bring to the table, in terms of actualizing  the vision of renewed hope for Nigeria, bridging the gaps in revenue generation, enforcement strategies, and most importantly, promoting port efficiency and competitiveness." 

The Acting Comptroller-General of Customs also assured of a pragmatic move towards decongestion of Nigerian ports to enhance revenue generation, facilitation of legitimate trade and suppression of smuggling.

"I am sure you are very familiar with the Presidential Advisory Council and there is a document which has been made public. Our discussions also centre around aligning the vision of Customs, the activities of Customs in short, medium and long terms with those nobles objectives set out in PAC documents," he noted. 

Addressing the rumour of integrating government agencies, Adewale said he is not privy to any information about that yet and further explained that, though there is a common base between all the agencies that are generating revenue for the Country and there are some cross-cutting issues.

 "There are some areas where we overlap and there are some areas where we can complement each other but in terms of bringing the agencies together under one organization, we are yet to get details of that and we will be waiting to get the details and see how that pans out," he noted.

 

He further explained the ongoing processes to review the current situation against the objective of the border closure itself with the assurance that when the borders are reopened, it is not going to be the subject of rumour in any way.

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Acting Customs CG Applauds President Bola Tinubu as ECOWAS Chairman

Acting Customs CG Applauds President Bola Tinubu as ECOWAS Chairman

...Says his Appointment will promote Regional Integration, Border Security.

By: Bisi Akingbade

Acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has congratulated President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his recent appointment as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States.

Ag. CGC Adewale Adeniyi MFR, who met with the President in a private visit on the 11th of July, 2023, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, expressed joy as his appointment coincided with his emergence as the Acting Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service. 

Adewale said he is hopeful that the President's appointment will bring better regional integration, cooperation, border security and coordinated monetary affairs.

 

According to him, part of the discussions with President Tinubu is to actively engage Customs administrations across the borders, particularly the strategic ones and collaborate to achieve common objectives of border security and regional integration. 

"I will be paying an official visit to the Republic of Benin, to have discussions with the Customs Administration of Benin to address the issues of border security, importation across the border, and more importantly, the deployment of technological solutions to very complex border problems," he added.

He also seized the opportunity to express profound gratitude to Mr President for finding him worthy to be the Acting Comptroller General of Customs while stating that the opportunity to meet with the President is fruitful and engaging. 

"Mr President is a very good listener. We had discussions regarding what Customs can bring to the table, in terms of actualizing  the vision of renewed hope for Nigeria, bridging the gaps in revenue generation, enforcement strategies, and most importantly, promoting port efficiency and competitiveness." 

The Acting Comptroller-General of Customs also assured of a pragmatic move towards decongestion of Nigerian ports to enhance revenue generation, facilitation of legitimate trade and suppression of smuggling.

"I am sure you are very familiar with the Presidential Advisory Council and there is a document which has been made public. Our discussions also centre around aligning the vision of Customs, the activities of Customs in short, medium and long terms with those nobles objectives set out in PAC documents," he noted. 

Addressing the rumour of integrating government agencies, Adewale said he is not privy to any information about that yet and further explained that, though there is a common base between all the agencies that are generating revenue for the Country and there are some cross-cutting issues.

 "There are some areas where we overlap and there are some areas where we can complement each other but in terms of bringing the agencies together under one organization, we are yet to get details of that and we will be waiting to get the details and see how that pans out," he noted.

 

He further explained the ongoing processes to review the current situation against the objective of the border closure itself with the assurance that when the borders are reopened, it is not going to be the subject of rumour in any way.

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NDLEA Promotes, 3,248 Officers , As Marwa Decorated 12 Commands, 148 personnel

NDLEA Promotes,  3,248 Officers , As Marwa Decorated 12 Commands, 148 personnel 

... "Without grandstanding, we can say that we have raised the bar" - Buba Marwa

By: Bisi Akingbade

The Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohammed Buba Marwa (Retd) has decorated three Deputy Commanders General of Narcotics, DCGNs and four Assistant Commanders General of Narcotics, ACGNs who topped the list of 3,248 newly promoted and regularised officers and men of the Agency.

Marwa speaking at the event where 12 state commands and 148 other personnel were given awards and commendations for their outstanding performances in the first half of the year, said the exercise is an indication that the Agency has now entrenched the culture of excellence. 

In his word “Without grandstanding, we can say that we have raised the bar. Our weekly drug supply reduction effort is a testament to our performance. The innovative approach we have taken to drug demand reduction is commendable. The intricate and effective intelligence we deploy to track drug barons and dismantle cartels is a testimony to the capability of the new NDLEA we have collectively forged. Our success rate at prosecution is a definitive statement that we are doing our job.

“Our fears have been allayed about what tomorrow holds for the NDLEA and its personnel. Even while we are still in a state of rapid evolution, there have been seismic changes, and we have evolved a better, more efficient, and sustainable system that guarantees viable work conditions, good staff welfare, and enhanced job performance. We have since been able to settle the problem of career progression by expanding the Agency’s structures. We are cooperating more with regional opposites and international partners. All these translate into ample opportunities for upward mobility for focused, hardworking officers.”

The NDLEA boss stated that the agency had witnessed a lot of changes in the p

past two and a half years, “We have tried to reward hard work and professionalism by granting higher responsibilities to officers. Everyone to whom promotion is due has been considered. We are also expanding training opportunities. In the last 18 months, we have conducted over 150 trainings, involving more than 6,000 officers.”

Marwa urged the newly decorated officers not to rest on their oars. “We have adopted global best practices, and we have no doubt that the NDLEA of our dream is here before us. I am therefore charging you to take more pride in your work. Society today appreciates our efforts. Just last week, on World Drug Day, the President and Commander in Chief gave assurances of his administration’s unwavering support for NDLEA.

" Our international partners and foreign governments are watching us and are giving us the needed push. And among drug law enforcement agencies, we are rated highly. Our name is out there for good. Therefore, the onus is on us not to slacken but to continue the good work.

“It is not yet time to rest on our oars. We have no option but to sustain the momentum of our upward trajectory, build on our performance, and continue to protect our hard-earned reputation. It is on this note that I demand more from us in terms of hard work, discipline, valour, professionalism, commitment, and all the time-honoured virtues that enshroud labour with dignity.” he added.

The DCGN Joyce Titus- Agboluyi on behalf of the newly promoted and decorated officers  commended Marwa and the agency on for providing inspiring leadership for the Agency and motivating the personnel to break barriers and excel in their areas of responsibility to achieving the corporate goal of ridding Nigeria of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

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ICAN asks FG to minimize the impact of floating exchange rate

ICAN asks FG to minimize the impact of floating exchange rate

By: Bisi Akingbade

The president of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Dr. Innocent Okwuosa, has urged the government to minimize the negative short-term impacts of the floating of the exchange rate in order to realise the long-term benefits.

In a Position Paper on The Unification of The Exchange Rates in Nigeria he said the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria stands ready and offer its support to the government in the efforts to move the country forward.

He said due to the high exchange rate premium, the foreign exchange market was exposed to corrupt practices exploiting the arbitrage.

This led to artificial demand for foreign exchange thereby widening the foreign exchange premium, increasing the cost of raw material, driving up inflation, complicating the ease of doing business.

ICAN said the unification of the Nigeria foreign exchange rate is still at its early stages of implementation but has nonetheless been greeted with positive reactions from the investment and professional communities.

Noting that the new policy is applauded by the Institute of Chartered Accountants Nigeria, It is expected that this action will generally lead to short-term pains that will yield long-term gains, the Institute called for timely appointment of a new CBN governor who will provide a credible long-term direction for this policy which will provide certainty and stability, and boost investor confidence to inflow capital into the country.

The Institute called for effective and consistent implementation of the policy. This will ensure that no uncertainty is created by the mode of implementation and there is constant communication with key stakeholders such as businesses and investors amongst others.

Other recommendations are the rreview of the prohibited list of goods to ensure demand is not segmented.

This should be complemented by adopting appropriate fiscal and/or trade policies where necessary, for example, by increasing import tariffs etc., following a data driven analysis and robust stakeholder engagement.

The Institute also called for rreview and amend certain tax laws that require taxes to be paid in foreign currency thereby creating artificial demand for foreign exchange as well as complement this policy with fiscal reforms and discipline as well as removal of the petrol subsidy (which was recently executed), reduction in the cost of governance, harmonization of multiple tax laws and Benchmarking the Nigerian foreign exchange market with emerging international foreign exchange markets such as Malaysia, Mexico, South Africa, Brazil and Colombia including learning lessons to achieve macroeconomic stability and integration into global value chains.

It  also called for  Supplementary policies and initiatives to boost supply which must include must  include increase in our crude oil.

 

 

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ANLCA ELECTION : FARINTO To Consider Revenue Initiatives Generation For Betterment of Members

ANLCA ELECTION : FARINTO To Consider Revenue Initiatives Generation For Betterment of Members 

 Dr. Kayode Farinto, Presidential Candidate

... Customs is just to calculate and determine what you have to pay, they are not the one generating the revenue

By: Bisi Akingbade

Acting National President and Presidential candidate of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents, ANCLA, Dr. Kayode Farinto  has said that ANLCA will consider revenue generation Initiative for the betterment of members welfare if voted into Power as National President in the coming National Executive Committee election.

Farinto who disclosed  this during his team campaign mega  rally at Tin Can Island Port Complex , TICPC, on Tuesday, reiterated that women and youths of ANLCA will make significant contribution towards the growth of the profession under his administration if elected.

His word: “If we are voted into power we will engage the government to give the Customs Brokers one per cent of the revenue they generate because they are in reality the ones generating the revenue which Customs collects. If we didn’t generate there won’t be anything for the Customs to collect.”

Farinto pledged to encourage members who are mostly youths and women to obtain operational  licenses and earn a living through customs brokerage as a profession.

He assured ANLCA members that if he is voted into power in the coming election, members will witness a tremendous turnaround in their fortune as professionals that are responsible for the generation of the trillion naira revenue which the Nigeria Customs Service declares yearly.

The customs broker stated that he and his team if elected into office will engage the new Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu government to ensure that the Customs Brokers are given their rightful due to enhance their productivity.

During his campaign, he reassured  his colleagues that the future is bright for ANLCA members under the Bola Tinubu administration.

 “we forwarded a lot of proposals for changes we feel will bring the desired transformation in the sector and position the maritime industry as Nigeria’s second mainstay of the economy after oil. Thank God, we have seen them implementing most of those proposals we put forward. We expect the Transport Ministry to be unbundled to create a separate ministry for maritime”.

Farinto said that the Customs Brokers have been so marginalized that he will be putting forward eight steps government should take to mitigate the poor treatment that had been meted out to the Customs Brokers over the years.

While asking for their votes and that of other contestants in his camp, he disclosed that the President Tinubu’s government is ready to listen to freight forwarders, as he and some other chieftains of the association are making efforts to make sure the freight forwarding profession is given its rightful place a major contributors to the government revenue and the economy.

Farinto said” You are the one who go up and down looking for importers to bring in goods, you are the one paying the duty to government through your importers, Customs is just to calculate and determine what you have to pay, they are not the one generating the revenue, but yet we are not treated well, especially in taking decisions that affects our profession, this must stop.

Farinto had served ANLCA at different times as Tin Can Island Port Chapter as Secretary, Chairman and National Publicity Secretary respectively.

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