Comptroller Mohammed Shu’aibu, Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’ of the NCS with NAFDAC and NDLEA officials during briefing and handing over of contraband goods in Lagos on Tuesday
FOU Zone’A’ Customs arrest 4 suspects, seizes ₦1.2bn contraband in Lagos
Lagos, Oct. 7, 2025,The Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Nigeria Customs Service, has intensified its anti-smuggling operations, seizing contraband valued at over ₦1.2 billion in six weeks.
The Controller, Comptroller Mohammed Shu’aibu, disclosed this during a media briefing in Lagos on Tuesday, highlighting the unit’s increased vigilance across the South-West.
He said the unit seized 5,015 bags of foreign rice, equivalent to eight trailer loads, alongside 15 assorted used vehicles within the last six months.
Shu’aibu added that officers also intercepted 143 bales of used clothing, two jumbo sacks of used shoes, and one sack of assorted worn apparel.
He said the command confiscated 390 bottles of codeine, 310 foreign-branded drugs, 19 cards of tramadol, and 210 used tyres.
A 20-foot container with number ONEU 2419369 FTC, containing 752 cartons of calcium lactate, was also seized for false declaration.
According to him, the total Duty Paid Value of the seized goods stood at ₦1.188 billion, underscoring the magnitude of the operations.
He revealed that 640 parcels of cannabis sativa, weighing 431.8 kilogrammes, and 460 jerrycans of petrol, totalling 11,500 litres, were also intercepted.
Other seized items included expired pharmaceuticals, footwear, and clothing recovered across border communities in Ogun, Oyo, Ondo, and Lagos states.
Four suspects were arrested in connection with the seizures and have been handed over to relevant agencies for investigation and prosecution.
Shu’aibu said the unit recovered ₦39.2 million through demand notices issued against under-valuations between 1 Sept. 1 and Oct. 7.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to facilitating legitimate trade and supporting lawful businesses while maintaining strict enforcement of customs regulations.
Demonstrating inter-agency collaboration, Shu’aibu handed the seized drugs and cannabis to NAFDAC and the NDLEA for further investigation and disposal.
He reiterated the unit’s resolve to enforce the 2016 ban on the importation of foreign parboiled rice through land borders.
The controller warned smugglers to desist or face sanctions and commended Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi for his exemplary leadership.
NAFDAC Chief Regulatory Officer, Mr Taiwo Kareem, lauded Customs’ vigilance, disclosing that the intercepted drugs had expired between 2001 and 2023.
He cautioned Nigerians against purchasing medicines from roadside chemists, stressing the risks of consuming expired or counterfeit products.
Deputy Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA, Mr Nasir Bungudu, also commended Customs for their cooperation and promised to strengthen inter-agency collaboration.
Shippers and Freight Forwarders during rally for Clarion Shipping in Lagos on Tuesday
Freight forwarders urge Clarion Shipping to boost local industry
Lagos, Oct. 7, 2025, The President, Save Nigeria Freight Forwarders, Chief Patrick Osita, has urged shippers and freight forwarders to patronise Clarion Shipping to strengthen Nigeria’s indigenous shipping industry.
Osita made the appeal during a rally organised by Save Nigeria Freight Forwarders on Tuesday in Apapa, Lagos.
He said the vessel would operate under a Free on Board (FOB) arrangement in naira, stressing that the initiative could save Nigeria billions in foreign exchange.
Osita urged importers, exporters, and other stakeholders to support Clarion Shipping, noting that local shipping had collapsed largely due to poor commitment.
He commended the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) for enforcing the Cabotage Law to protect and support indigenous operators.
“Clarion Shipping has taken a huge risk to bring this vessel into the country. We must support the company and its Vice-President, Mrs Ifeoma Eloka,” he said.
Clarion Shipping’s Operations Manager, Mr Solomon Ogudo, said the firm offers multiple destination options, faster delivery, and access to inland ports in Lagos, Onne, Kano, and Onitsha.
He said incentives include 21 days of free container deposit, flexible demurrage waivers, and dedicated customer support in both China and Nigeria.
Ogudo disclosed that the vessel, Ocean Dragon, departed China on 28 September and is expected to berth in Nigeria by Oct. 25.
He explained that the company was created to tackle challenges faced by Nigerian and African exporters and to eliminate trans-shipment delays.
“The consignments in Clarion Shipping vessels are delivered directly to destinations worldwide. We currently operate with China and have a strong base in Abidjan,” Ogudo added.
He said Clarion Shipping aimed to make Nigeria a leading hub for export shipping across Africa and beyond.
Ogudo also noted that customs officers would earn incentives of 500 dollars for booking 40-foot containers and 300 dollars for 20-foot containers.
He revealed that Clarion Shipping operates two vessels — one serving Nigeria and West Africa, and another linking Nigeria with China.
The rally attracted importers, exporters, freight forwarders, marketers, shippers, clearing agents, and media representatives, who hailed it as a milestone for indigenous shipping.
The Operations Manager, Clarion Shipping Mr Solomon Ogudo, the National Coordinator Save Nigeria Freight Forwarders, Chief Patrick Osita, briefing the media after the rally in Apapa
L-R: Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Olufemi Oluruntola; Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr Dayo Mobereola; Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, CON; Secretary General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Mr Arsenio Dominguez; an assistant to the IMO Secretary-General, Alice Montonorelle; and Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, in Lagos on Thursday, during a working visit by the IMO Secretary-General to Nigeria
IMO chief hails Nigeria’s maritime security gains
Lagos Oct. 2, 2025,The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Mr Arsenio Domínguez, has praised Nigeria for remarkable progress in maritime security and blue economy development.
He said Nigeria’s suppression of piracy and implementation of the Deep Blue Project stood as a model of regional cooperation in the Gulf of Guinea.
Domínguez, who arrived in Nigeria on Thursday, made the remarks during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, in Abuja.
He noted Nigeria has maintained zero piracy incidents for over three years, a feat reflecting strong political will and effective collaboration among security agencies.
According to him, synergy between the Nigerian Navy, NIMASA and partners has delivered tangible results in ensuring safer seas across the region.
He highlighted Nigeria’s recent IMO submission on national and regional maritime security, describing it as evidence of leadership in West and Central Africa.
While commending progress, Mr Domínguez stressed that gains must be sustained through investment in infrastructure, modern equipment, and human capital.
He assured the IMO’s continued support through capacity-building initiatives, awareness programmes, and technical assistance.
The IMO chief announced a regional conference on the Safe Seas Project will hold in Ghana in January 2026, consolidating Gulf of Guinea contributions.
He further revealed ongoing EU discussions on a maritime governance project to improve port operations and enhance security.
According to him, two additional regional projects in Southern and Western Africa are being developed with performance indicators to track progress.
Beyond security, Domínguez underscored the need for readiness on energy transition, biofuels adoption, and financing to modernise infrastructure and train seafarers.
He praised Nigeria’s Blue Economy Policy as a forward-looking framework capable of creating jobs, harnessing marine resources, and boosting growth.
At the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, he commended simulator-based training and urged greater collaboration with the Education Ministry and industry stakeholders.
Oyetola described the visit as evidence of strong Nigeria–IMO ties and reaffirmed government commitment to consolidating maritime security gains and expanding blue economy opportunities.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, presenting a souvenir to the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), Mr Arsenio Domínguez, during the IMO Secretary-General’s visit on Thursday
Stakeholders made presentations highlighting reforms and investments in maritime safety, training, and port operations.
NIMASA’s Director-General, Dr Dayo Mobereola, outlined reforms in maritime safety, seafarer welfare, and regulation aimed at positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime nation.
Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy, Dr Kevin Okonna, showcased modern training facilities and advocated international cadet exchange programmes.
Managing Director of Lekki Free Trade Zone, Mr Wang Qiang, said Lekki Deep Sea Port is boosting job creation, foreign investment, and cargo handling.
Domínguez also engaged cadets, urging them to explore opportunities in renewable energy, green shipping, and maritime technology.
He reaffirmed IMO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in strengthening governance, maritime safety, and blue economy growth.
Domínguez added that Nigeria’s maritime security achievements stand as a model of excellence for Africa and beyond.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, CON (third left); Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr Arsenio Domínguez (third right) with other officials and cadets of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, during the IMO Secretary-General’s visit to Nigeria, on Thursday.
The Managing Director, Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho
Lagos, Oct. 3, 2025, The Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, has identified Abuja’s central location and agro-allied potential as key drivers in Nigeria’s efforts to boost non-oil revenue.
Dantsoho made this known during the “NPA Special Day” at the Abuja International Trade Fair, according to a statement by the NPA’s General Manager, Corporate Communication and Strategy, Mr Okechukwu Onyemekara.
He explained that Abuja’s centrality within the country offers a unique advantage for connecting Nigeria’s agricultural value chain to global markets.
According to him, this advantage is vital to the Federal Government’s continuous push for diversification of the economy away from crude oil dependence.
Dantsoho said that developing local value chains for agro-allied products would help identify clusters of international demand and position Nigerian goods more competitively in the global marketplace.
He stressed that port-hinterland connectivity was central to NPA’s renewed focus on trade facilitation, enabling a seamless link between ports and the country’s interior.
This linkage, he said, would ensure that the comparative advantages across Nigeria’s regions were fully harnessed to increase both the volume and value of exports.
The NPA boss emphasised that as Nigeria’s leading trade facilitation platform, the authority remained committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen non-oil revenue generation.
He added that the Abuja International Trade Fair represented a noble cause which aligned with Nigeria’s economic aspirations, as trade is a powerful tool for national development.
Dantsoho invited traders, exporters and investors to explore opportunities provided by the NPA, especially simplified export processes designed to ease cargo movement.
He explained that the NPA had established Export Processing Terminals (EPTs) to reduce the cumbersome processes previously associated with Nigerian exports.
According to him, the EPTs are conceived as a one-stop shop for cargo consolidation, stuffing, documentation, packaging, certification, and onward shipment through electronic call-up to the ports.
This, he noted, eliminated duplication and bureaucratic bottlenecks that had rendered Nigerian exports uncompetitive in international markets.
To further support small businesses, Dantsoho said the EPTs were integrated with Domestic Export Warehouses (DEWs) in synergy with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and Inland Dry Ports.
According to him, this integration creates pathways for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to participate more actively in the export value chain.
Speaking on the theme of this year’s trade fair, “Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives and Taxation,” he disclosed that the NPA was unifying all operational processes into a single transaction gateway known as the Ports Community System (PCS).
According to him, the PCS is designed to lay the groundwork for the National Single Window (NSW), which will streamline all trade-related transactions across agencies.
He stressed that the NSW represented global best practice, as it connected every stakeholder in the trade value chain for seamless interaction with minimal human interference.
Dantsoho assured stakeholders that the NPA had put in place measures to link value creators from even the most remote parts of Nigeria with clusters of demand worldwide.
He reaffirmed the authority’s open-door policy for partnerships and encouraged stakeholders to explore the NPA’s fully interactive online real-time platforms for trade facilitation.
From L-R, The Deputy Comptroller, Head of Scanning Unit, LFTZ, Moderator, CEO Global Energy and Logistics, Ruth Chukwukezirim, Registrar Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarder (CRFN), Mr Kingsley Igwe, and the Convener Lagos International Maritime Week LIMWEEK , Mrs Tosan Edodo-Emore during the 10th edition of the two-day Lagos International Maritime Week (LIMWEEK) held in Lagos on Monday
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LFTZ Customs generates 459.8bn in 8 months
From L-R, The Deputy Comptroller, Head of Scanning Unit, LFTZ, Moderator, CEO Global Energy and Logistics, Ruth Chukwukezirim, Registrar Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarder (CRFN), Mr Kingsley Igwe, and the Convener Lagos International Maritime Week LIMWEEK , Mrs Tosan Edodo-Emore during the 10th edition of the two-day Lagos International Maritime Week (LIMWEEK) held in Lagos on Monday
Lagos, Sept. 29, 2025, The Lekki Free Trade Zone (LFTZ) Customs Area Command says it has generated N459.8 billion between January and August.
The Customs Area Comptroller, Hauwa Abubakar, disclosed this on Monday at the 10th Lagos International Maritime Week (LIMWEEK) 2025 in Lagos.
Abubakar spoke in a presentation titled: Efficient Customs Service and the Development of Africa’s Ocean Economy; The Experience of the Lagos Free Trade Zone Command.
Represented by the Deputy Comptroller, Ehiprem Haruna, Abubakar said that since inception, the LFTZ command had recorded remarkable achievements through both the free zone activities and port operations.
“As at the end of August, the command has generated the sum of N459.8 billion as revenue to the coffers of the government at Lekki port, which only commenced operations in 2023.
“Customs has already demonstrated how efficient clearance procedures and risk management systems can speed up cargo flow while still ensuring compliance and security.
“Customs Modernization Project have also brought about the indigenous Nigeria Customs Unified Management System “B’Odogwu”, which help to balance trade facilitation with revenue generation and enforcement,” he said.
According to her, Africa’s ocean economy holds immense potentials, adding that ports are not just the gateways for trade but engines for industrial growth, regional integration and global competitiveness.
She explained that beyond revenue, the command emphasised on partnership, adding that it worked closely with the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority, with free zone administrators and the management of the Lekki port.
Abubakar further noted that the command also collaborated with sister agencies from the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Department of State Service (DSS) Port Health among others.
She mentioned that the synergy had created a robust environment where no agency worked in isolation and where efficiency is a shared goal.
“We engaged in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) projects, such as the renovation of a local primary school, to demonstrate custom’s role, not only as revenue collectors, but as partners in community development.
“The experience of Lagos free trade zone command teaches us some important lessons for Africa’s wider ocean economy.
”While digitisation and automation are critical, we must expand e-custom’s platforms, integrate data-driven clearance and explore technologies such as block chain.
“Regional integration under the African Continental Free Trade Area, must be supported by customs, harmonisation of seamless cargo movement will only be possible when our procedures align.
“Public-Private Partnership is essential; the collaboration that built and sustains Lekki port is a model for other African countries.
“There is the need for sustained capacity building, invest in our officers in green port practices and in maintaining integrity in service delivery,” Abubakar said.
She said that presently, they operated on an efficient customs service that was not just about collecting revenue but created an environment where trade flowed freely, investors felt confident, communities benefitted and Africa’s ocean economy could thrive.
Abubakar testified that the Lagos free trade zone command stood as a living example that when customs worked efficiently, the entire maritime value chain benefited.
Also speaking, Mr Kingsley Igwe, Registrar, Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding (CRFFN) stated that logistics inefficiencies, weak infrastructure and high trade costs, had continued to limit Africa competitiveness in global markets.
Igwe spoke on a presentation, “Innovation Cargo Logistics and Development of Africa’s Ocean Economy”, with the theme: “Our Ocean, Our Sea, Our Obligation”.
He noted that Africa’s coastline stretched over 30,000 km, with 38 coastal states and countless communities, whose livelihoods depended on the sea, adding that the African continent’s ocean economy remained underdeveloped.
“But there is good news. Across Africa, innovation is rewriting the cargo logistics story from digital transformation in ports, to integrated multimodal corridors and smart financing for green shipping.
“These advances are not just technical upgrades; they are a gateway to unlocking Africa’s blue economy.
“Africa need innovations driving change such as, the Digital Port System, which is the introduction of single window platform, that ensures tracking which reduces delays, enhance transparency and cut costs.
“Another innovation is Green Shipping and Sustainability. With climate change threatening coastal livelihoods, African ports are exploring renewable energy, cleaner fuels and carbon reduction programmes.
“The future of ocean logistics must be climate-smart,”Igwe said.
He called for the establishment of Integrated Corridors by investing on multimodal transport, road, rail and inland waterways, to improve cargo flows from landlocked nations to the seaports.
He noted that integration remained essential if Africa is to achieve the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
He added that the Tanger Med Port in Morocco had illustrated the transformative power of innovation.
Igwe emphasised that Tanger Port was leveraging on automation, AI-driven traffic management and digital logistics chains, that had become one of the most efficient ports in the world.
He said that Tanger success was a proof that African ports could compete globally when innovation is embraced.
According to him, vessel dwell time can be reduced, if government invested in enabling infrastructure and supportive regulation, while port operators adopt technology and green practices that enhances competitiveness.
He noted that the academia and the civil society must step up efforts in building capacity, knowledge and innovation ecosystems that would sustain Africa’s maritime future.
“The ocean is not just a passageway for trade; it is Africa’s future,” he said.
Igwe said that cargo logistics offered a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build an ocean economy that was inclusive, sustainable and globally competitive.
The Managing Director, Fleet Fence Ltr., Mrs Esther Oibo, Rear Admiral Suleiman Ibrahim, the Convener Lagos International Maritime Week LIMWEEK, Mrs Tosan Edodo-Emore, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Odunayo Liasu, Ambassador Florentina Ukonga and President, Maritime Security Provider Association of Nigeria, Mr Emmanuel Maiguea, during the 10th edition of the two-day Lagos International Maritime Week (LIMWEEK) held in Lagos on Monday
LIMWEEK 2025: Linking waterways across 28-state will transform economic -Expert
Dignitaries during the 10th edition of the two-day Lagos International Maritime Week (LIMWEEK) held in Lagos on Monday
Lagos, Sept. 29, 2025, The Chairman of Global Transport Policy (GTP), Dr Olusegun Musa, has urged the Federal Government to link waterways across 28 states for economic transformation.
Musa made the call during the 10th Lagos International Maritime Week (LIMWEEK), a two-day event held in Lagos on Monday.
According to Musa, Nigeria has about 853 kilometres of coastline offering opportunities in fisheries, oil and gas, shipping, and tourism.
He stressed that 28 of Nigeria’s 36 states possess water bodies which, if linked, could yield huge economic benefits.
Musa said Africa’s Blue Economy was not a distant dream but an immediate opportunity, noting that data on its potential remained underutilised.
He emphasised that fisheries and aquaculture contribute significantly to GDP and food security, adding that aquaculture could address a projected 12-million-tonne fish deficit by 2050.
He cited Egypt’s aquaculture drive and Ghana’s Aquaculture for Food and Jobs Programme as examples of meeting rising protein demands while reducing imports.
Musa said improved regulation could make Africa a net fish exporter, creating livelihoods and boosting nutritional security for its fast-growing population.
He highlighted Africa’s renewable energy potential, noting that South Africa alone could generate up to 900 gigawatts of offshore wind energy.
Wave and tidal energy, he added, offered viable alternatives beyond fossil fuels, unlocking growth while addressing climate change.
Musa noted that maritime tourism generated $80 billion and 24 million jobs in 2018, stressing the need for sustainable, eco-friendly tourism to protect biodiversity.
He described maritime trade, logistics, and ports as Africa’s trade lifeblood, with 90 per cent of international trade passing through them.
However, he warned that Africa’s blue economy faced severe threats, including climate change, sea-level rise, and overfishing, which could destabilise economies and displace communities.
He cited World Bank projections estimating climate damages to major African coastal cities at up to $86.5 billion by 2050.
Musa also warned of declining fisheries, with West Africa’s catch potential expected to drop 30 per cent by 2050, worsened by Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.
He said IUU fishing deprived local communities, fuelling insecurity and radicalisation, as seen in regions such as Somalia.
On pollution, Musa highlighted persistent oil spills in the Niger Delta and rising marine waste from Africa’s growing coastal populations.
He stressed that oceans should be treated as partners in prosperity, not plundered resources.
In her remarks, Zoe Maritime Resources Chief Executive, Mrs Edodo-Emore, said the International Maritime Business-to-Business Conference was part of World Maritime Day celebrations.
As LIMWEEK Convener, she noted that developing Africa’s ocean resources was crucial to tackling poverty, adding that development could not exist without maritime security.
She said a roundtable on Gulf of Guinea security would examine threats and opportunities for developing Africa’s ocean economy.
Edodo-Emore added that African ports must embrace digitalisation, with Smart Ports reducing vessel turnaround times, improving customs clearance, and ending manual processes.
She said a roundtable on maritime transport and port development would advance discussions on Smart Ports, their opportunities, and challenges
The convener of Lagos International Maritime week, Mrs Tosan Edodo-Emore, attaching university students with mento at the 10th edition of the two-day Lagos International Maritime Week (LIMWEEK) held in Lagos on Monday
From 3rd Left, he President of the Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi (middle) flanked by resource persons; during the women empowerment programme in Apapa, Lagos, on Monday
Lagos, Sept. 29, 2025, The President, Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), Mrs Kikelomo Adeniyi, has called for urgent and collective action to tackle maternal mortality in Nigeria.
Adeniyi made the call during the COWA empowerment and sensitization programme at the Apapa Customs Command on Monday in Lagos.
The event, themed “Empowering Families, Enriching Lives,” also featured the distribution of sewing machines, ovens, and other empowerment tools to participants.
She described maternal mortality as a tragedy that should no longer be occurring in world.
Adeniyi lamented the recent loss of a few women during childbirth, emphasizing that such deaths were preventable with the right awareness and medical attention.
“Maternal mortality is something we should all put our hands on deck to tackle.
“People seem not aware of their options; that’s why we have brought women together to discuss about it” she said.
The COWA president said that the event’s goal was to sensitize women on the importance of regular hospital visits, antenatal checks, and self-care.
“As mothers, while nurturing children and supporting their husbands, it is important that the women remain healthy.
” The essence of COWA is to help women build sustainable livelihoods, especially given the frequent transfers that take their husbands away from home.
“We don’t just give them things to work with; we teach them how to manage funds and grow businesses.
“Some of the women you saw today just started training three months ago, and they already presented a cake made by them. That is the impact of what we do.”
” COWA’s flagship initiative, the Healthy Wife, Wealthy Life, designed to combine economic empowerment with health education,”Adeniyi said.
The COWA President revealed that the initiative holds three sessions annually in Abuja, often bringing together women from sister associations, including those from the army and other paramilitary organisations.
She said COWA also encouraged women to bring their wares for display and sales during these gatherings adding that they were having fun and exercising, also making money.
Adeniyi reiterated COWA’s commitment to enriching lives through empowerment and education, saying the association would continue to expand its reach and encourage more participation from women across all Customs commands nationwide.
In his welcome remarks, the Customs Area Controller, Apapa Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, thanked COWA for its passion and commitment to drive diversity, inclusion and female gender emancipation.
“With the work being done by COWA, you’re proving that empowerment is not just by words but actions.
” Your activities such as; skills acquisition, intervention at schools, care for special needs children, grants for businesses, among others are all commendable.
“The passion with which you go about COWA activities is very impressive. On behalf of the officers and men of Apapa Command,”Oshoba said
The Apapa Customs Comptroller, assured COWA of the command continuous support to enable them achieve their mandate of support women
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-R: President of the Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, presenting a certificate and an oven as part of COWA’s empowerment programme in Apapa, Lagos, on Monday
A group picture of the newly promoted officers at LFTZ customs command
security sister agencies present at the ceremony.
LFTZ Customs decorates 29 promoted officers: Abubakar callas for more efficiency
17 Sept. 2025, The Lagos Free Trade Zone (LFTZ) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service on Wednesday, decorated 29 newly promoted Officers of the Command, reflecting the celebration of hard work, dedication to service.
Captions:Customs Area Controller, Lagos Free Trade Zone Command, Comptroller Hauwa Abubakar while addressing the decorated Officers and guests at the ceremony.
Speaking at the auspicious occasion, the Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Hauwa Abubakar congratulated all the newly decorated Officers and their families, prayed the milestone will serve as a source of renewed strength, motivation, and commitment.
She urged them to continue to give their best efforts, uphold values of the Service, and justify the confidence reposed in them.
The Area Controller stressed the need to maintain transparency and integrity, focus on excellence and build on existing successes.
She noted that Promotion in the Service is not given lightly but earned through commitment, discipline, and the consistent demonstration of capacity and integrity in the discharge of duty.
“For those we are decorating today, this recognition is a testament to your perseverance, loyalty, and invaluable contributions to the growth and success of this Command and the Service at large.
“As we celebrate, I must also remind us that with higher ranks come greater responsibilities. Promotion is not only a reward but also a call to higher expectations. You are now positioned to serve as role models, to inspire your subordinates, and to raise the standard of professionalism, discipline, and efficiency within our Command.
“The Lagos Free Trade Zone Command has continued to play a strategic role in revenue generation, trade facilitation, and enforcement of Customs laws.
Our collective progress is made possible by the unwavering commitment of officers like those we honor today. It is my firm belief that this promotion will further energize you to contribute more diligently to our common objectives of improved revenue, compliance in Free Zones and the Port, as well as stronger stakeholder engagement,” she said.
She also commended other Officers yet to be promoted in the current exercise, urging them to continue to demonstrate resilience and loyalty to duty.
“Be assured that your efforts are recognized, and in due time, your turn will surely come. The Service remains fair and just in rewarding hard work,” she stated.
The LFTZ boss also appreciated other security sister agencies present at the ceremony.
She acknowledged their solidarity and collaboration with the command remain invaluable in the discharge of the collective responsibilities.
Abubakar mentioned that the collaboration support not only strengthens inter-agency synergy but also reinforces the spirit of partnership needed to enhance national security, trade facilitation, and revenue generation.
She thanked the sister agencies present on behalf of the command, for joining them on this special occasion and for their continued cooperation in service to our nation
The Public Relations Officer, LFTZ command Abdullahi Abiola-Lagos
The ceremony was graced by stakeholders, friends ,families and well wishers of the command as well as the newly promoted Officers, Heads of Units, and other Officers and Men of the Command.
The Chief Executive Officer, Zoe Maritime Resources Ltd., Mrs Tosan Edodo-Emore, has said that the 2025 edition of the Lagos International Maritime Week (LIMWEEK) will take place from Sept. 29th – 30th at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island.
According to her this year’s event will mark the 10th International Maritime Business-to-Business Conference and Exhibition, adopts the IMO World Maritime Day theme for Africa as “Our Oceans, Our Seas, Our Obligations – Maximizing Ocean Resources in Africa.”
Edodo-Emore said that the two-day programme would open with a public lecture by Dr Oluwasegun Musa, CEO of Global Transport Policy, who will set the agenda for exploring opportunities in Africa’s ocean economy.
She noted that the LIMWEEK 2025 would also feature roundtable sessions on key issues including maritime transport, port development, Gulf of Guinea security, marine environment, women in maritime, training and education, arbitration, and seabed mining.
“High-profile speakers include; Jette Bjerrum, Consul General of Denmark; Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff; Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General of NIMASA; Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, Executive Secretary of NCDMB; Alhaji Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director of NIWA; and other local and international experts.
“A key highlight will be the Gulf of Guinea security roundtable, which regularly attracts foreign naval participation from Denmark, the USA, France, and the UK,”Edodo-Emore said.
She mentioned that the LIMWEEK would also continue its signature mentorship initiative, pairing young professionals with seasoned industry leaders to prepare the next generation for maritime leadership.
Edodo-Emore emphasized that over the years, LIMWEEK had drawn participants from across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. This year, Liberia joins the growing list of countries represented.
“High-profile speakers include; Jette Bjerrum, Consul General of Denmark; Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, Chief of Naval Staff; Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General of NIMASA; Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, Executive Secretary of NCDMB; Alhaji Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, Managing Director of NIWA; and other local and international experts.
“A key highlight will be the Gulf of Guinea security roundtable, which regularly attracts foreign naval participation from Denmark, the USA, France, and the UK.
“Over the years, LIMWEEK has drawn participants from across Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. This year, Liberia joins the growing list of countries represented,”She said.
Edodo-Emore said that the LIMWEEK would continue its signature mentorship initiative, pairing young professionals with seasoned industry leaders to prepare the next generation for maritime leadership.
