Flowerbud News

Author: Ejide Onibiyo

  • Macfoy Hands Over WIMAFRICA Nigeria Leadership to Nwaeze

    The President, Maritime Arbitrators of Nigeria, Chief Jean Chiazor Anishere (SAN) also the former Continental President of WIMAFRICA, administering the oath of office, to the new executive of WIMAFRICA Nigeria Chapter

     

    Macfoy Hands Over WIMAFRICA Nigeria Leadership to Nwaeze
    The President of Women in Maritime Africa (WIMAFRICA), Nigeria Chapter, Mrs. Rollens Macfoy, on Friday formally handed over leadership of the association to Mrs. Theodora Nwaeze, marking the end of her tenures.
    The handover ceremony took place at Rock View Hotel, Apapa, Lagos, after a peaceful and well-attended Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the association.
    The AGM was described by members as remarkable, as all the executives of the association were elected unopposed, reflecting internal harmony and unity among members.
    The Continental Vice President, Women in Maritime Africa (WIMAFRICA), Mrs. Rollens Macfoy,
    Macfoy, who now assumes the status of Emeritus President of WIMAFRICA Nigeria, was commended for her leadership style anchored on peace, collaboration, sisterhood and transparency.
    Members noted that her tenure was devoid of rancour and scandals, while the association experienced stability and growth under her stewardship.
    Speaking at the event, Macfoy said her tenure had shown that institutions could thrive when women lead with humility, faith and a shared sense of purpose.
    She thanked God Almighty, the ambassadors, mentors and members of the Executive Council, whom she described as a united team that worked together without bitterness or internal conflict.
    Macfoy, who currently serves as the Continental Vice President of WIMAFRICA, assured members that she would continue to support the Nigeria chapter in an advisory capacity.
    She urged the newly elected executives to remain united and always place the interest of the association above personal considerations in order to achieve greater success.
    In her acceptance speech, the newly elected President, Mrs. Theodora Nwaeze, pledged to build on the solid foundation laid by her predecessor.
    Nwaeze said her administration would focus on empowerment, innovation, collaboration and visibility, adding that her leadership would be driven by impact rather than titles.
    She said the new executive council would prioritise capacity building, digital transformation and skills development within the blue economy sector.
    According to her, the vision of the new leadership is to expand the association’s presence beyond Lagos to other states, while strengthening national and continental engagements.
    The former Continental President of WIMAFRICA, Chief Jean Chiazor Anishere (SAN), who administered the oath of office, advised the new executives to respect their positions and work collaboratively.
    From L-R Continental Vice President, WIMAfrica, Mrs Rollens Macfoy, President Women International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Dr Odunayo Ani and the Newly elected President WIMAfrica Nigeria, Mrs Theodora Nwaeze during the 2025 election held on Friday in Lagos
    Also speaking, the President of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani, pledged to strengthen collaboration between WISTA Nigeria and WIMAFRICA to advance women’s participation in the maritime sector.
    A group picture of newly elected executive, ambassadors and leaders of the association.
    The event witnessed  several maritime Amazon’s including; the President of Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN), Chief Jean Chiazor Anishere SAN; Co-Founder of Committee of Friends for Humanity (COFFHA), Chief (Mrs.) Carol Ufere; President of Women’s International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Mrs. Odunayo Ani; Managing Director of Hudson Gee Nigeria Limited, Mrs. Gloria Kanabe; President Ocean Ambassadors Foundation, Mrs Violet Williams, A maritime Guru who operates Bonded Terminal, Mrs Affi Ibanga, Ship captains among others.

  • Osun 2026: 1,660 Delegates Affirm Oyebamiji as APC Governorship Candidate

    • Osun 2026 APC Governorship Candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji

       

     Osun 2026: 1,660 Delegates Affirm Oyebamiji as APC Governorship Candidate
    December 13, 2025, A total of 1,660 delegates drawn from the 30 local government areas and 332 wards in Osun State have affirmed Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO) as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress for the August 8, 2026 off-season election in the state.
    The declaration was made  on Saturday, December 13, 2025, during the party’s primary election held at Imperial Hall, Osogbo.
    Not less than 1,660 delegates unanimously endorsed Oyebamiji as the party’s flag bearer.
    The endorsement followed a motion moved by one of the aspirants who stepped down for Oyebamiji, Kunle Adegoke (SAN), calling for his affirmation as the APC candidate for the forthcoming governorship election.
    Adegoke, popularly known as K-RAD, said his endorsement was made on behalf of all the party’s aspirants.
    “I hereby, on behalf of other aspirants of the party, endorse Asiwaju Oyebamiji as our candidate for the 2026 Osun governorship election coming up in August.
    This followed the decision of all the aspirants to step down for Asiwaju Oyebamiji to be the party flag bearer in 2026.”
    Another governorship aspirant, Babajide Omoworare, who seconded the motion, said all other aspirants had agreed to step down in support of Oyebamiji.
    “I second the motion moved by Kunle Adegoke (SAN) by affirming the candidature of AMBO as the consensus candidate of the party,” Omoworare.said.
    Following the motion, the Chairman of the 2025 APC Primary Election Committee and Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, put the affirmation to a voice vote, after which all 1,660 delegates affirmed Oyebamiji as the party’s candidate.
    According to Okpebholo, “By the powers conferred on me as the Chairman of the APC 2025 party primary, I hereby affirm Asiwaju Oyebamiji as the governorship candidate of the party for the August 2026 general election.”
    Governor Okpebholo subsequently charged party members to work in unity, expressing confidence that with Oyebamiji’s candidature, the APC would win the 2026 governorship election in Osun State.
    Speaking after the proclamation Oyebamiji, formally accepted his nomination as the APC candidate for the August 2026 Osun State governorship election and expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
    Oyebamiji commended the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, the Igbimo Agba Osun and other party leaders.
    “I accept this nomination as the APC party flag bearer for Osun 2026. I thank Almighty Allah, our leaders who have travelled far and wide for the primary, and the committee for delivering a rancour-free election.”
    “Osun is at a crossroads between wastefulness and greatness. We promise productivity and a prosperous Osun State. I will foster productivity and people-oriented projects, thereby putting the people first.
    ” As your candidate for the 2026 election, I assure you that I am fully prepared, and I will make the leaders and good people of Osun proud,”Oyebamiji said.
    He also pleaded with all party members to join him in repositioning the state for greater productivity and development.
    Dignitaries present at the APC primary included aspirants who stepped down for Oyebamiji; the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; the Governor of Ondo State and Co-Chairman of the APC Primary Committee, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
    Other dignitaries present were the Governor of Nasarawa State, Abdullahi Sule; the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Obafemi Hamzat; former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello; Senator Francis Fadahunsi; and members of the Igbimo Agba Osun (APC Elders’ Council), led by Sola Akinwumi, a former Chairman of the Odu’a Group of Companies among others.

  • Majemite: an author urges women to embrace confidence and leadership

    Chief Jean Chiazor Anishere (SAN, the Executive Director, Empathy Driven Women International Initiative (EDWIIV), author of the book, Mrs Helen Majemite, her husband Chief Fred Majemite and other dignitaries during the book launch, titled “A Letter to All Women” held in Lagos on Thursday

     

    Majemite: an author urges women to embrace confidence and leadership
    Lagos, December, 11, 2025  An Author, Mrs Helen Majemite has urged women not to shrink their strengths or hide their abilities, saying her new book, A Letter to All Women, was written to help them embrace confidence and lead boldly.
    Majemite made the urge while speaking at the book launch and unveiling of The Women’s Leadership Camp Initiative (TWLCI) in Lagos.
    She said the publication speaks directly to women who shoulder silent burdens while keeping families, workplaces and communities together.
    She noted that many women remain strong for others but are rarely given room to be strong for themselves.
    she said the work also targets women rebuilding their lives after emotional, physical or financial setbacks.
    The author said the book highlights the struggles of mothers juggling multiple responsibilities without support, as well as young women who constantly question their worth.
    She added that each chapter draws from her own battles and victories, alongside stories of women who have faced storms yet refused to give up.
    She stressed that the central message of the book is that every woman matters and her experiences remain valid.
    From L-R- The Executive Chairman, Growth Mind Set and Integrative Dr Ify Nwakwesi, Ms Doris Okechukwu represented the CEO, Women For Women International, Mrs Mrs Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke, Dr Adiya Ngozichukwuka and Chief Jean Chiazor Anishere, President Martime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN) during the book launch, A Letter to All Women held in Lagos on Thursday
    Majemite said she believes that when a woman finds herself again, the ripple effect strengthens her family, community and the nation.
    She added that the newly launched TWLCI platform aims to empower low-income women financially and equip them with practical skills to improve their businesses.
    According to her, the initiative will help women become more dynamic and better positioned to contribute to economic development.
    She thanked her husband, Chief Fred Majemite,  her children and extended family for their support during the writing process.
    Chief Fred Majemite, Mrs Helen Majemite the Author of the book A Letter to All Women and the last Mr Emuobonuvie Majemite during the book launch held in Lagos on Thursday
    In her keynote address, the Chief Executive Officer, International Women For Women, Mrs Thelma Ekiyor-Solanke, represented by Ms Doris Okechukwu, urged women to embrace resilience.
    She noted that rising from challenges “with grace, with strength, and with purpose” was key to progress.
    Ekiyor-Solanke said the dual launch was about inspiring action, explaining that the initiative seeks to give women the confidence and tools to step into leadership roles within their communities.
    “When women lead, families thrive. Communities grow. Nations change,” she said.
    Executive Director, Empathy Driven Women International Initiative (EDWIIV), Dr Adiya Ngozichukwuka, in her welcome address, described the gathering as a celebration of the resilience and beauty of womanhood.
    She said the book invites readers on a path of healing, self-discovery and growth.
    “In A Letter to All Women, Helen shares her personal journey, weaving stories of trial, triumph and redemption. With each page, she invites us on a path of self-discovery, healing and growth.
    “Her message is clear: no matter what life has taken, no matter how many times we’ve been broken, we can rise again — whole, wise and unstoppable.
    “Through honest reflections and practical insights, Helen guides us on overcoming fear, nurturing inner peace and walking boldly in purpose. This book is more than a guide; it is a call to action,” she said.
    She encouraged women to reclaim their authenticity, rebuild confidence and live with faith and intention.
    Ngozichukwuka said the author’s reflections underscored the power of faith, hope and determination, urging women to reclaim authenticity, rebuild confidence and live with intention.
    Dr Ify Nwakwesi, Executive Chairman, Growth Mindset and Integrative Lifestyle Academy, encouraged women to appreciate themselves and engage in regular exercise to enhance physical wellbeing.
    From L-R Moderator, Mrs Yemisi Peters, Dr Chinyere Almona, the Author Mrs Helen Majemite, Mrs Folusho Gbadamosi and Dr Patrick Ijewere, panelists during the Book Launch Titled A Letter to All Women and Launching of the Women Leadership Camp Initiative held in Lagos on Thursday
    The event featured a panel session on women, leadership and resilience.  Dr Chinyere Almona, one of the panelists, said women often demonstrate vision and strength across domestic and professional spaces.
    She urged them to cultivate self-awareness rather than measure progress through comparison with others.
    Also speaking, Dr Patrick Ijewere, a wellness expert, highlighted women’s role in shaping future generations and called for greater societal respect for women.
    He encouraged successful women to collaborate and support one another to enhance their collective influence.
    Vice President, Development and Regional Set (4lYF Project Lead), Mrs Folusho Gbadamosi, said women are natural influencers who should be given more visibility.
    She advised them to manage differences constructively to strengthen unity.
    The moderator, Dr Yemisi Peters, encouraged women to maintain authenticity and deepen collaboration for shared progress.

    Dignitaries at the event included President Maritime Arbitrators of North Nigeria, Chief Jean Anishere (SAN), former General Manager of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Mrs Nana Yakubu, Hajia Bola Muse, Mr Emuobonuvie Majemite, and several guests from Nigeria and the diaspora.

     

  • Shu’aibu hands over FOU Zone ‘A’ leadership to Comptroller Aliyu in a grand style

    From L-R The Assistant Comptroller General, (ACG) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mohammed Shu’aibu handing over to the newly deployed controller of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, during the handover ceremony held in Lagos on Wednesday

     

    Shu’aibu hands over FOU Zone ‘A’ leadership to Comptroller Aliyu in a grand style

     

     

    ‎‎December 10, 2025 , Assistant Comptroller General (ACG) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mohammed Shu’aibu, has handed over leadership of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone ‘A’ to Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, following his deployment to the Service Headquarters, Abuja.

     

     

    Speaking at the handover ceremony on Wednesday in Lagos, Shu’aibu said the unit recorded major operational gains during his seven months in charge.

     

     

    “Between April 23 and December 10, we carried out 476 successful interceptions and seized 761 items worth N10.1 billion,” he said.

     

    He added that the unit also strengthened compliance activities, saying,“Through detailed checks on import and export documentation, we recovered a total of $419 million into government coffers.”

     

     

    The outgoing ACG appreciated God Almighty for his grace and extended warmth gesture to the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) Bashir Adeniyi and entire NCS management team for entrusted him with the Leadership of FOU Zone’A’

     


    A group picture of Senior officers and friends of the Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’ during the handover ceremony held in Lagos on Wednesday

     

    Shu’aibu urged officers to maintain professionalism and support the new comptroller.

     

    “I am confident this unit will achieve more with sustained discipline and teamwork,” he said.

     

    In his remarks, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu, who took over leadership as the 29th comptroller of the unit, appreciated the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adeniyi, and his management team for the confidence reposed on him to serve in the new capacity.

     

     

    Aliyu assured that his leadership would consolidate his predecessor’s achievements for greater successes, focusing on compliance, change and reputational managements.

     

    From L-R The Assistant Comptroller General, (ACG) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mohammed Shu’aibu; Oba John Olaifa, (Kiniun 3), Alase of Ilase Kingdom, Ipokia Local Government, and the newly deployed controller of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu during the handover ceremony held in Lagos on Wednesday

    The incoming Comptroller said he would build on his predecessor’s momentum.

     

    “This assignment comes with enormous responsibility, but with the cooperation of officers and stakeholders, we will deliver,” he said.

     

    Aliyu added that enforcement would remain priority-driven.

     

    “We will intensify intelligence-led operations to curb smuggling and protect national economic interests,” he noted.

     

    Aliyu also pledged to strengthen internal standards, adding that professional conduct, discipline and integrity would guide their operations, and officers’ welfare would receive due attention.

     

    The ceremony was attended by officers, family members, stakeholders and representatives of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), who presented plaques and gifts in appreciation of Shu’aibu’s service.

  • Incoming MAAN boss commits to swift resolution of maritime disputes

    The newly elected President of the Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN), Chief Jean Anishere (SAN)

     

    Incoming MAAN boss commits to swift resolution of maritime disputes
    Lagos, December, 7, 2025:The new President of the Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria (MAAN), Chief Jean Anishere (SAN), has pledged her administration’s commitment to effective maritime disputes resolution that aligns with global best practices.
    Anishere said this in an interview  on Sunday in Lagos, following her emergence as president of the association.
    She described Nigeria’s maritime sector as being a critical component of both the national and continental economy, adding that effective dispute resolution is key to sustaining investor:s confidence in the sector.
    According to her, MAAN has a vital responsibility to ensure that disputes are resolved efficiently, impartially and professionally, in line with international standards of arbitration.
    Anishere expressed appreciation to the Chairman of the Advisory Council, members of the council, colleagues and guests who attended the association’s election held on Dec. 4.
    “I am deeply honoured by the trust you have placed in me to serve as President of the Maritime Arbitrators Association of Nigeria.
    “I accept this responsibility with humility and a firm commitment to advance the values of excellence, integrity and professionalism that define our association,”she said.
    She also paid tribute to the past presidents of MAAN for their contributions to the growth and reputation of the association.
    “We are beneficiaries of their hard work and dedication, and we will continue the journey they began,” she said.
    The MAAN president also hinted that her administration will focus on strengthening professional capacity, increasing membership and expanding the association’s visibility at regional and international levels.
    She added that her leadership will also deepen collaboration with key industry stakeholders and reinforce ethical standards that promotes credible maritime arbitration practice.
    She called for collective efforts to position Nigeria as a leading hub for maritime arbitration in Africa.
    Anishere’s emergence marked the end of the tenure of the outgoing executives led by a legal practitioner, Mr Bodunrin Adewole.

    Other members of the new executives include; Mr Osuala Nwagbara, as Vice President; Mrs Foluke Akinmoladun as Secretary; Chief Ben Onwunma as Treasurer, among others.

  • Shipping association raises alarm over rising stowaway incidents

    Chairman, Shipping Association of Nigeria, Mrs Boma Alabi, also the Chairman Shipping Agencies Clearing and Forwarding Employers Association (SSACFEA)

     

    Shipping association raises alarm over rising stowaway incidents
     December 5, 2025:The Shipping Association of Nigeria (SAN) on Friday warned about persistent stowaway incidents, saying vessels recorded about 2,300 security infractions in 2025.
    Chairperson, Mrs Boma Alabi, made the disclosure during a media briefing in Lagos.
    She said criminal elements still gain unauthorised access to ships despite payments to agencies meant to protect vessels at berths.
    Alabi noted that 15 foreign shipping lines operate in Nigeria, each reporting two to three stowaway cases weekly.
    “As a result of stowaway cases, sanctions are imposed on shipping companies, and we bear the cost of repatriation,” she said.
    She argued that sanctions should be reviewed, insisting shipping firms are not responsible for such breaches.
    “Each arrested stowaway attracts a $2,000 fine paid by the shipping company,” Alabi said.
    She added that immigration collects the fines even though companies already pay agencies in dollars for vessel protection.
    She said port delays also hurt manufacturers, as cargo due in a day often arrives after weeks, forcing some firms to close.
    Alabi, also the Chairman Shipping Agencies Clearing and Forwarding Employers Association (SSACFEA) urged Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, to address the shortage of functional pilot cutters in Onne and other ports.
    She revealed that shipping lines sometimes hire private boats to support pilots due to the shortfall.
    Alabi also criticised port health operations for delaying Free Pratique, especially at Lekki and Apapa ports.
    “As shipping lines invest in larger vessels, we need infrastructure support to optimise operations,” Alabi said.
    She added that the turning basin in Onne should be widened and more mooring men employed for efficiency.
    Alabi said marine police sometimes order shipping lines to halt cargo release, urging strict adherence to proper channels.
    She called on government to reduce regulatory pressures to improve the ease of doing business.
    She also said Nigeria Customs clearing policies should be tested before rollout to prevent demurrage. She urged Customs to obtain court orders before auctioning overtime cargoes.
    Alabi said members complained that their cargoes were auctioned after exceeding the 30-day demurrage period.
    She said proper procedures would protect importers and prevent needless losses.
    Responding, Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) security officer, Mr Ikechukwu Igunna, said the 2,300 figure was inaccurate, noting Apapa recorded about 10 cases in 2025.
    Similarly, Nigeria Immigration Service spokesman, Mr Akinola Akinlabi, urged stakeholders to consult the International Maritime Bureau for accurate statistics.

  • Ex-Minister warns maritime challenges slowing Nigeria’s blue economy

    From left, Chairman Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN), Mr Tunde Ayodele, a former Executive Secretary Nigerian Shippers’ Council, Mr Hassan Bello, Secretary, Shipowners Association, Mrs Funmilayo Folorunsho, the former Minister of Interior, Capt. Emmanuel Ihenacho and former General Manager, NPA, Mrs Carol Ufere, during the book launch by MARAN on Thursday in Lagos
    Ex-Minister warns maritime challenges slowing Nigeria’s blue economy
     December 4, 2025 A former Interior Minister, Capt. Emmanuel Iheanacho, says persistent problems in Nigeria’s maritime and blue economy sector continue to hinder revenue growth and efficiency.
    Iheanacho, a retired Merchant Navy Captain, listed “ageing infrastructure, dependence on road haulage, and weak private sector involvement” as major obstacles.
    He spoke at the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) book launch on the 50 Drivers of Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy held in Lagos on Thursday.
    The book launch celebrated innovators and institutions “steering Nigeria’s marine economy” and shaping national maritime progress.
    Iheanacho said 2025 began with a landmark policy that reset the nation’s approach to developing its coastal and inland waterways.
    “The policy became a compass, guiding maritime trade, aquaculture, blue tourism, and clean ocean energy while promising new jobs,” he said.
    He added that experts projected annual earnings of $44 billion but warned that “only strong governance and real private sector partnerships can unlock this potential.”
    He said the government had moved to rebuild Apapa and Tin Can Ports, with procurement advancing for the long-neglected Eastern Ports
    “The ministry celebrated a 75 per cent score, with zero piracy and clear gains in port modernisation.
    “Yet ageing infrastructure and road dependence continued to slow revenue and operational growth,” he said.
    He noted that the year still ended on an optimistic note with the approval of the National Marine and Blue Economy Policy (2025–2034).
    Iheanacho said the policy aimed to harness Nigeria’s 853-kilometre coastline and vast inland waterways for diversification and sustainability.
    “It offers actionable guidance on maritime trade, aquaculture, blue tourism, and clean energy,” he explained.
    He said the sector could contribute $44 billion yearly “with improved governance and regulation.”
    He added that private investment and PPPs were “vital for mobilising expertise and capital” for sector reforms.
    “The government has approved contracts to rebuild Apapa and Tin Can Ports, with work on Eastern Ports ongoing,” he said.
    Iheanacho said the ministry had achieved zero piracy in two years and continued to advance port modernisation.
    He added that the policy was expected to drive sustainable growth and support broader economic development.
    Experts, he noted, had urged full implementation of frameworks needed to capture the projected revenue.
    Nigerian Shippers’ Council’s Executive Secretary, Dr Pius Ukeyima, said the book launch marked “a major milestone” for maritime stakeholders.
    Represented by Mrs Juliana Saka, an assistant Director at NSC, he said MARAN’s professionalism “deserves commendation and broad industry appreciation.
    “The blue economy offers vast opportunities that require collaboration, innovation, and accountability.”
    He added that MARAN’s work strengthens public awareness and shapes discourse on policy and investment.
    Former NSC chief, Mr Hassan Bello, said the sector’s achievements over six decades made the celebration significant.
    “Nigeria’s maritime economy remains central to national growth and demands continuous development,” he said.
    Mrs Carol Ufere, former SERVICOM head at NPA, said the book offered deep insights on agencies, leaders, and reforms.
    “It emphasises governance, digitalisation, security, and institutional strengthening,” she said.
    She said the chapters analyse NIMASA, NPA, NIWA, Customs, the Railway Authority, and others.
    She added that the book highlighted achievements, gaps, and needed reforms to improve competitiveness and sustainability.
    MARAN Chairman, Mr Tunde Ayodele, said the event honoured individuals and institutions shaping maritime development.
    He said the publication captured their contributions and highlighted reforms and innovations driving progress.
    “This first edition also recognises emerging talents and future contributors,” he said.
    The Ports Consultative Council (PCC) executive and maritime lawyer, Mrs Gloria Kanabe, praised the media for amplifying maritime interests.
    She said media reporting had strengthened the sector and aided trade facilitation nationwide.
    The event drew former officials, dignitaries, and key maritime stakeholders.

  • NPA showcases simplified export processes at Kano International trade fair

    The Managing Director, Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho

     

    NPA showcases simplified export processes at Kano International trade fair

     

     

     

     

    December. 4, 2025 (NAN) The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Abubakar Dantsoho, has reaffirmed the authority ‘s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s non-oil export sector through streamlined port operations and improved port–hinterland connectivity.

     

    Dantsoho said this a statement through the General Manager, Corporate Communication and Strategy of NPA, Mr Okechukwu Onyemekara in Lagos on Thursday.

     

    Dantsoho lauded the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KACCIMA) for sustaining the fair’s reputation as a global business hub.

     

    He said Kano’s strategic position as a major commercial centre linking Nigeria to the northern hinterland and neighbouring landlocked countries, presented enormous economic opportunities.

     

    According to him, Kano’s rich agro-allied potential aligns with the NPA’s drive to connect local producers to international markets, particularly within the non-oil value chain.

     

    Dantsoho highlighted several reforms introduced by the authority to enhance Nigeria’s export competitiveness, including the establishment of Export Processing Terminals (EPTs).

     

    He said that EPT was designed as one-stop facilities for consolidation, documentation, packaging, certification and onward movement of export goods to the ports.

     

    The NPA boss explained that EPTs was developed in collaboration with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and other partners, to eliminate bottlenecks that previously hindered the seamless export of Nigerian products by reducing duplication and bureaucratic delays.

     

    He also announced ongoing efforts to eliminate human interface in port processes by fully automating operations through the Ports Community System (PCS), a precursor to the National Single Window (NSW).

     

    He explained that the NSW represented global best practice for integrating all stakeholders in the trade value chain on a single digital platform.

     

    Dantsoho said the reforms reflected the authority’s resolution to link value creators in the remotest parts of Nigeria to global markets with minimal friction.

     

    He urged traders and investors participating in the fair to engage with the NPA’s business development team at the agency’s pavilion and explore the opportunities available through its real-time digital platforms.

     

    “To empower Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in line with the theme of this year’s fair, we are aggressively simplifying export procedures to ensure made-in-Nigeria goods moved through our ports as smoothly as possible.

     

    ” Our doors are always open for partnerships beyond this fair,” he said.

     

     

  • Shippers Day: Stakeholders call for tax reforms, urge full NSW window implementation

    L-R, The Deputy Commissioner of Police, (DCP), Chucks Obasi, the President Shippers’ Association Lagos (SAL), Rev. Nicodemus Odolo, the Director Consumer Affairs Nigeria Shippers’ Council (NSC) Mrs Ify Okolue, the Director Human Resources Greenville, Mrs Omobolanle Onasanya and the Zonal Coordinator Zone ‘A’, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs Muhammed Babadede, during the 2025; Shippers’ day celebration

     

     

     

     

    Shippers Day: Stakeholders call for tax reforms, urge full NSW window implementation

     

    December 3, 2025: The Shippers’ Association of Lagos State (SALS) has spotlighted key issues confronting the maritime and logistics sector, including multiple taxes and levies, calling for the full implementation of the National Single Window (NSW).

     

    The shippers made the call during the 2025 Shippers’ Day Celebration at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos, with the theme: “National Single Window – Simplifying Trade Process for Nigerian Shippers”.

     

    Delivering the keynote address, the Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Dr Pious Ukeyvima, represented by the Director Consumer Affairs, Mrs Ify Okolue, commended SALS for convening the event.

     

    Ukeyvima noted the critical role of shippers in facilitating trade, strengthening the economy, and advancing Nigeria’s competitiveness globally.

     

    Ports stakeholders during the shipper Day celebration, 2025 with the Theme: National Single Window Simplifying trade process for Nigeria Shippers at Rockview Hotel.

     

    He highlighted the event’s theme, “Multiple Taxes and Levies”, stressing that overlapping, contradictory charges undermined pricing transparency, increased costs, and weakened Nigeria’s position as a trade hub.

     

    Ukeyvima emphasised that the council remained committed to reforms that promoted fairness, transparency, and efficiency across the ports.

     

    He expressed strong support for the full implementation of the National Single Window, describing it as a structural reform that integrated all port processes, reduced delays, eliminated duplicated documentation, and streamlined cargo clearance for importers and exporters.

     

    Addressing the four per cent tax on Free On Board (FOB) value of imported goods imposed by the Nigeria Customs Service, (NCS), Akutah acknowledged stakeholders’ concerns about import costs and business sustainability.

    He assured that the NSC was engaging relevant authorities in ensuring that fiscal policies were harmonised with national economic priorities.

     

     

    The NSC boss also lauded SALS for providing a forum where industry issues could be openly discussed and addressed, describing the association’s advocacy as a driving force for positive change in the maritime sector.

     

    The Chairman of the occasion , the Managing Director, Greenville Nigeria Ltd., Mr Akin Omole, represented by Mrs Omobolanle Onasanya, Director of Human Resources, commended SALS for its commitment.

     

    He pledged continuous support for shippers and acknowledged the dedication of stakeholders in ensuring smooth cargo operations at Nigerian ports.

     

    The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, said the National Single Window and its relationship with the B’Odogwu platform, highlighted government’s modernisation agenda in trade facilitation.

     

    Adeniyi, who was represented by the Zonal Coordinator Zone ‘A’, Assistant Comptroller General, Muhammed Babadede, described the B’Odogwu platform, an indigenous Unified Customs Management System, as a powerful tool to digitise and streamline cargo clearance.

     

    According to Adeniyi, B’odogwu reduces human interface, minimises errors, and provides real-time visibility to all stakeholders.

     

    He further highlighted modernisation initiatives under the Comptroller-General of Customs, including the Advance Ruling System, Time Release Study, Authorised Economic Operator programme, and One-Stop Shop initiative.

     

    The customs boss said all above mentioned customs policies aimed to improve efficiency, transparency, and reduce clearance times.

     

    He explained that the National Single Window and B’Odogwu platforms were complementary, with full integration expected in the first quarter of 2026, providing a unified digital trade ecosystem aligned with global best practices.

     

    The President of SALS, Rev. Nicholas Odolo, in his remarks, emphasised the importance of the event as a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and collaboration.

     

    Odolo encouraged participants to work collaboratively to build a sustainable, efficient, and competitive shipping industry, where trade policies promoted growth rather than create bottlenecks or uncertainties.

     

    The President of SALS called for 24-hour cargo clearance and continuous stakeholder engagement, urging industry players to achieve proactive solutions for the maritime sector.

     

     

     

    Odolo stressed the importance of transparent, predictable, and non-punitive revenue policies, which he said were crucial to Nigeria’s ambition of becoming a Blue Economy Maritime Nation.

    A Maritime Lawyer, Chief Osuala Nwagbara, in his goodwill message, noted the need to streamline maritime operations through legal reforms.

     

    He commended the turnout and stressed that the presence of major industry players, including Dangote Group, signalled a new era where shippers would no longer accept excessive charges.

     

    The President of the Barge Owners Association and Exporters, Mr Bunmi Olumekan, urged both exporters and importers to continue supporting national development, also emphasized the critical role of trade in sustaining Nigeria’s economy.

     

    The Registrar of the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding (CRFFN), Mr Kingsley Igwe, represented by the Director of Enforcement, Mr Ben Ojuma, recognised the strategic role of shippers in national commerce.

     

    Igwe called on the government to provide incentives for shippers to own larger vessels, thereby enhancing trade facilitation.

    The event, organised in collaboration with the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), attracted distinguished stakeholders, industry leaders, government officials, and private sector operators, providing a platform to address pressing challenges and explore opportunities in Nigeria’s trade ecosystem.