Pic 2.The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, cutting the ribbon during the inauguration the renovation of the whole premises of Methodist Primary School Ibeshe, Ikorodu, on Wednesday in Lagos
CSR: NCS intensifies community-based initiatives in Lagos, renovates school in Ibeshe
Lagos, February, 11, 2026, The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) says it is intensifying community-based Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives in Lagos State’s schools.
Pic 1.The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, at the back rejoicing with the pupils of Methodist Primary School Ibeshe Ikorodu, during inauguration of school facilities on Wednesday in Lagos
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Mr Bashir Adeniyi, made this known during the inauguration of the renovated Methodist Primary School, Ibeshe, Ikorodu area in Lagos on Wednesday.
Adeniyi explained that the service’s CRS usually targeted life-changing interventions such as education, healthcare, waters sports and creative industry.
Some of the facilities provided in the renovated school included over 15 different blocks of classrooms, toilets for teachers and pupils, clinic,food vendors’ spot, multipurpose hall, playing ground and class rooms for kindergarten, refuse incinerator and a clinic.
Other facilities were 15 number of solar security lights, reconstruction of children, gingle overwing, renovation of entrance gate and a security house as well as furnishing, among others.
Also, the renovated schools were equipped with computer rooms, school library and classrooms, among others.
The comptroller-general said the service would not only be known for revenue generation but also for improving the lives of the Nigerian people as part of its CSR.
He promised to enhance communities’ well-being and foster sustainable development, ultimately making a positive impact on the lives of those it served.
“Our CSR, which commenced in 2025 targeted to directly reach out to more than 50,000 students across the country with writing tools, bags, school uniforms, pencils, pens, erasers, sharpeners, shoes and raincoats, among others.
“We have donated writing materials to over 20,000 children, and we will still reach out to school pupils in other parts of the country.
“We have budgeted healthcare delivery for Nigerians, what we are doing is in line with our CSR, all the communities where we serve remain strong pillars which is why we will continue supporting them.
” As we commission this project today, I urge the school and the benefiting community to see it not only as a gift but as a shared responsibility.
“Let us maintain it, put it to good use, and keep the spirit of partnership alive,” Adeniyi said.
Speaking earlier, the retired Customs Area Controller, Lilypond Export Customs Command, Mr Ajibola Odusanya, appreciated Adeniyi for giving the command the opportunity to participate in the CSR.
He also thanked comptroller-general, stakeholders and the officers for making the command’s dream a reality for the use of humanity.
Odusanya said education was a light, adding that giving children basic education in a conducive environment would encourage more students within the Ikorodu community to be educated.
He said that the NCS would also take total responsibility of proper maintenance of the renovated buildings.
In his goodwill message, the Customs Area Controller, Lilypond Export Command, Comptroller Samuel Ariyibi, commended the former and retired Comptroller of the command, Ajibola Odusanya, for the laudable initiative.
Ariyibi also commended the support of the CGC for giving them the opportunity to touch lives and give back to their society.
Ariyibi urged the school’s authority to create a maintenance section for the renovated buildings, adding that customs had adopted the school for continuous maintenance till eternity.
He urged other agencies to emulate the Nigeria Customs Service’s kind gesture.
The Executive Chairman, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), Dr Hekeem Shittu, represented by its Secretary, Mr Lamidi Hakeem, commended customs for taking a step towards enhancing better learning outcomes.
Shittu acknowledged the NCS’ initiative, opining that education remained the bedrock of sustainable development.
The Headmistress of Methodist Primary School, Ibeshe, Ikorodu , Mrs Felicia Oyatoye, appreciated the NCS for the school’s renovation.
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, receiving appreciate plaque from the Head Methodist Primary School Ibeshe, Mrs Felicia Oyatoye and the Secretary, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), Mr Lamidi Hakeem in Lagos on Tuesday
Oyatoye said that the renovation would enable them to teach the children in a more conducive environment, adding that the project was an example of CGC’s impactful leadership.
The inauguration was witnessed by the traditional ruler of Ibeshe kingdom, stakeholders, well-wishers, Lagos State and customs officials, among others.
Pictures of the committee members who received ministerial commendation over Nigeria’s IMO Council victory IMO
FG commends committee over Nigeria’s successful IMO Council election
Lagos, February.,10, 2026 ,The Federal Government has commended nine members of an Inter-Ministerial Committee for their roles in Nigeria’s successful election into Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Council.
The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Lagos by his Special Adviser, Dr Bolaji Akinola.
Oyetola said the commendation followed the committee’s contribution to Nigeria’s election into the IMO Council for the 2026–2027 biennium.
Nigeria secured the seat at the IMO Council elections held on Nov. 28, 2025, in London, marking a significant milestone in the country’s maritime and diplomatic engagements.
He said the commendation letters, dated Jan. 28, 2026, were signed by him in recognition of the members’ commitment, professionalism and strategic coordination throughout the campaign process.
Those commended include the Chairman of the committee, Mr Olufemi Oloruntola, former Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy; Mr Babatunde Bombata, former Director of the Maritime Safety and Security Department of the ministry and
It also include Dr Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA); Dr Dayo Mobereola, Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) and Mr Obinna Chiedu Onowu, Director, International Organisations Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Others are Dr Ade Dosunmu, former Director-General of NIMASA; Dr Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser to the Minister; Dr Paschal Ogar, Assistant Director, Maritime Safety and Security Department, who served as Secretary to the committee; and Mr William Balla, Nigeria’s Alternate Permanent Representative to the IMO.
Oyetola said the committee’s strategic engagement with IMO member states and effective campaign coordination were critical to Nigeria’s success.
According to him, the efforts of the committee showcased Nigeria’s maritime reforms, capacity and potential on the global stage, while strengthening the country’s standing within the international maritime community.
He added that the contributions of the members reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to the objectives of the IMO and enhanced international maritime cooperation.
Receiving the consignment, NDLEA Commander Narcotic, Tincan Strategic Area Command, Solomon Omotoso, from the Customs Area Controller, Tincan Island Customs Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka in Lagos on Wednesday
Customs hands N4.7bn cannabis seizure to NDLEA in Tincan
Lagos, Feb. 4, 2026, The Customs Command in Tincan Island, Lagos, has handed over 2,366 packs of cannabis indica, valued at over N4.7 billion, to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
The seizure comprised a 40-foot container holding 55 jumbo bags of cannabis indica intercepted during routine enforcement operations at the port.
A picture of 55 jumbo bags of Canadian indica Intercepted by the Tincan Island Customs Command
Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday issued by the command’s spokesperson, CSC Oscar Ivara.
Speaking during the handover, Onyeka said officers acted in line with global standards on border protection and public safety.
“Today, we inform you of developments in securing our borders, aligning with the 2026 International Customs Day theme of vigilance and commitment,” he said.
Onyeka said the container was examined on Jan. 28, alongside NDLEA and DSS operatives, following intelligence-led profiling.
“A 40-foot container was found to contain 2,366 packs in 55 jumbo bags of cannabis indica,” he said.
He added that officers also discovered a Colt MK IV .45 calibre pistol with an empty magazine inside the container.
According to him, three used vehicles were deployed to conceal the prohibited items, including a Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Sienna and Toyota Matrix.
“Interestingly, we apprehended one suspect in connection with the seizure,” Onyeka said.
He warned that Customs would not tolerate drug smuggling or transnational crime threatening national security and public health.
The NDLEA Commander Narcotic, Tincan Strategic Area Command, Solomon Omotoso, signing the Intercepted cannabis indica with the Customs Area Controller, Tincan Island Customs Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka in Lagos on Wednesday
Receiving the consignment, NDLEA Commander Narcotic, Tincan Strategic Area Command, Solomon Omotoso, commended Customs for strong inter-agency collaboration.
Omotoso assured that the NDLEA would intensify investigations and prosecution in line with existing laws.
From fifth left,the Zonal Coordinator, Zone ‘A’, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs ACG, Muhammed Babadede,The Western Marine Customs Comptroller, Patrick Ntadi, and others during the Reputation Management Cascade Training in Lagos on Tuesday
Western Marine customs boss tasks officers with safeguarding reputation
Western Marine customs boss tasks officers with safeguarding reputation
From fifth left,the Zonal Coordinator, Zone ‘A’, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs ACG, Muhammed Babadede,The Western Marine Customs Comptroller, Patrick Ntadi, and others during the Reputation Management Cascade Training in Lagos on Tuesday
Western Marine customs boss tasks officers with safeguarding reputation
Lagos, February, 3, 2026, The Western Marine Customs Comptroller, Patrick Ntadi, has charged officers of the command on reputation management to enhance the trust and compliance of the trading public.
Ntadi gave the charge during a Reputation Management Cascade Training in Lagos on Tuesday.
He reminded officers that the job of customs was one of the most dignified services in Nigeria, whose duty was to work for humanity.
“”Officers should remember that we are a bridge between government and the trading public (Agents). therefore, we should never shout at any stakeholder because by doing that, it tarnishes our reputation,” he said
He commended officers for always being neatly dressed, and appealed to them to ensure that they put in their best in customs operations.
Ntadi noted that reputation management and maintaining credible professionalism were essential for Nigeria Customs Service as their operations involved trade facilitation, revenue generation and national security.
Also speaking during the training, the facilitator, a Chief Superintendent of Customs, Dauda Ibrahim, described reputation management as a shared responsibility across all levels of services, from frontline officers at the borders to administrative staff as well as management.
“As officers, you are ambassadors of the Nigeria Customs Service outside; whatever you do positively and negatively bounces back to the command.
“The Comptroller-General of Customs, and his management have decided to bring this course to ensure that officers are band by very high standards of ethics.
“An officer that is informed will be professionally balanced and can represent the service anywhere in the world,”he said.
Also, an Assistant Superintendent of Customs, Harry Ameh, spoke to officers on “The Role of the Customs Reputation Ambassador”.
He noted that as an image ambassador, officers should serve as image custodians in their respective commands.
Ameh, consequently, urged offers to imbibe seven custodian namely: controlling situations, courtesy without loss of dignity, consulting colleagues, command attention, clean hands in all respect, clear questions as well as careful examination.
He noted that a single act of misconduct could stain a thousand honest officers’ reputation, as management begins with individual accountability.
A group picture of Senior Customs officers at Western Marine Command during a Reputation Management workshop held in Lagos at the command Headquarters in Lagos
Ameh described reputation as an expensive currency for any organisation, adding that it is essential for operations of the service.
In a related development, the Zonal Coordinator, Zone ‘A’, Assistant Comptroller General of Customs (ACG) Muhammed Babadede, also commended the dedication of officers towards their duties of combating smuggling.
Babadede said he was directed by the Comptroller-General of Customs, to appreciate officers for their commitment which made them surmount their revenue target for 2025.
He urged officers to redouble efforts in the new year.
He also assured officers of the Western Marine command, of the management’s decision to improve their welfare, especially in building befitting accomodations for them.
Customs, NDLEA seize 347.5kg cannabis at Apapa Port
Customs, NDLEA seize 347.5kg cannabis at Apapa Port
Lagos, January 27, 2026 The Nigeria Customs Service, Apapa Command, in collaboration with the NDLEA, intercepted 347.5 kilogrammes of cannabis, also called ‘canadian loud’, at the Apapa port.
The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, confirmed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Lagos by the command’s spokesman, CSC Isah Sulaiman.
Oshoba said the cannabis was concealed inside an imported Toyota Sienna vehicle among four vehicles in a single consignment at the port.
Picture of the seized 347.5kg cannabis at Apapa Port
“This seizure marks the fourth major joint drug interception by both agencies at the port within the last two months,” he said.
He explained that the illicit substance was hidden in 13 bags discovered during coordinated intelligence gathering and detailed cargo examination.
“Ten bags weighed 25kg each, while the remaining three weighed 29kg, 34.5kg and 34kg, totalling 347.5kg,” Oshoba stated.
A picture of a wrapped pack of the seized 347.5kg cannabis at Apapa Port
The interception came barely 24 hours after Oshoba received a World Customs Organisation Certificate of Merit for outstanding service and border security commitment.
Oshoba reiterated the command’s resolve to prevent the movement of prohibited items through Apapa port.
“Any attempt by criminal elements to traffic prohibited items through this port will be detected and thwarted,” he warned.
He said the command remained vigilant and resolute in protecting society and national security.
“No cargo, imported or exported, will pass through this port without thorough examination,” Oshoba added.
The operation highlighted growing synergy between Customs and the NDLEA, in line with the vision of Comptroller-General Bashir Adeniyi.
In line with established procedures, the seized consignment was formally handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution.
Customs, NDLEA during the physical examination of 347.5kg cannabis intercepted at Apapa Port
The development builds on recent WCO recognition accorded to Oshoba and NDLEA Apapa Commander, Mohammed Tukur.
Both officers received the Certificate of Merit in Abuja during the 2026 International Customs Day celebrations.
The interception aligns with the 2026 ICD theme, ‘Customs Protecting Society Through Vigilance and Commitment.’
Reaffirming commitment, Oshoba said the Apapa Command would facilitate legitimate trade while intensifying efforts against illicit activities.
Women maritime associations endorse CVFF Portal for indigenous shipping
L-R: President, WISTA Nig. Dr Odunayo Ani, also Director in NIMASA, member of NIMASA Governing Board, Iroghama Ogbeifun , the Chairman, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Governing Board, Hon. Yusuf Hamisu Abubakar; Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho; Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola; Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola; Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs Fatima Mahmood and Chairman, House Committee on Maritime Safety, Education, and Administration, Hon. Khadija Bukar Abba Ibrahim, and President, WIMAfrica (NIG), Mrs Theodora Nwaeze,during the launch of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) Application Portal
Women maritime associations endorse CVFF Portal for indigenous shipping
Lagos, January. 24, 2026, The Women Associations in the Maritime industry, have commended the Federal Government, for unveiling the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) Application Portal to enhance ship owners to compete with their foreign counterpart.
The women association made the commendations in a statement signed by the President Women International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Dr Odunayo Ani in Lagos on Saturday.
A maritime expert, Mrs Bilkis Lawal, Vice President WIMAFRICA Mrs Temilade Ogunniyi, Vice President, President WIMAfrica Nig. Mrs Theodora Nwaeze, Nigeria Chamber of Shipping and former President, WISTA Nig. Ify Akerele, WISTA President, Dr Odunayo Ani and other members of the association during the unveiling of the CVFF application portal held in Eko Hotel in Lagos on Thursday
The association comprises of Women International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA), Women in Maritime Africa (WIMAFRICA) and Women in Maritime West and Central Africa (WIMOCA).
President, Women International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Dr Odunayo Ani
Ani commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, and the Director-General, Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, for their strategic vision and commitment to modernising processes within the industry.
She noted that the portal represents a forward-looking initiative designed to enhance efficiency, inclusiveness, and sustainable growth across Nigeria’s marine and blue economy landscape.
“The commissioning of this portal is a testament to deliberate efforts to deepen stakeholder engagement and unlock new opportunities for operators and investors alike.
“We are urging the ship owners and other beneficiaries to purchase the loan and channel it positively to boost indegenous shipping in Nigeria,”Ani said.
She advised ship owners to build standard ocean going vessel to enable the trained cadets have access to sea time training to enhance manpower.
WISTA Nigeria boss reaffirmed support for initiatives that promote equity, professionalism, and innovation, emphasizing the role of women in advancing a resilient and competitive maritime ecosystem.
The associations pledged continued collaboration with the Ministry, NIMASA, and other sector partners to strengthen the industry’s global standing.
The CVFF Application Portal was expected to streamline access to financing for vessel operators, addressing longstanding challenges in the cabotage regime and boosting investor confidence in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Recalled that the portal, established under the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act of 2003, was designed to address the financing gap faced by Nigerian shipowners.
Women maritime associations endorse CVFF Portal for indigenous shipping
L-R: President, WISTA Nig. Dr Odunayo Ani, also Director in NIMASA, member of NIMASA Governing Board, Iroghama Ogbeifun , the Chairman, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Governing Board, Hon. Yusuf Hamisu Abubakar; Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho; Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola; Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola; Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs Fatima Mahmood and Chairman, House Committee on Maritime Safety, Education, and Administration, Hon. Khadija Bukar Abba Ibrahim, and President, WIMAfrica (NIG), Mrs Theodora Nwaeze,during the launch of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) Application Portal
Women maritime associations endorse CVFF Portal for indigenous shipping
Lagos, January. 24, 2026, The Women Associations in the Maritime industry, have commended the Federal Government, for unveiling the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) Application Portal to enhance ship owners to compete with their foreign counterpart.
The women association made the commendations in a statement signed by the President Women International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Dr Odunayo Ani in Lagos on Saturday.
A maritime expert, Mrs Bilkis Lawal, Vice President WIMAFRICA Mrs Temilade Ogunniyi, Vice President, President WIMAfrica Nig. Mrs Theodora Nwaeze, Nigeria Chamber of Shipping and former President, WISTA Nig. Ify Akerele, WISTA President, Dr Odunayo Ani and other members of the association during the unveiling of the CVFF application portal held in Eko Hotel in Lagos on Thursday
The association comprises of Women International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA), Women in Maritime Africa (WIMAFRICA) and Women in Maritime West and Central Africa (WIMOCA).
President, Women International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria, Dr Odunayo Ani
Ani commended the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, and the Director-General, Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, for their strategic vision and commitment to modernising processes within the industry.
She noted that the portal represents a forward-looking initiative designed to enhance efficiency, inclusiveness, and sustainable growth across Nigeria’s marine and blue economy landscape.
“The commissioning of this portal is a testament to deliberate efforts to deepen stakeholder engagement and unlock new opportunities for operators and investors alike.
“We are urging the ship owners and other beneficiaries to purchase the loan and channel it positively to boost indegenous shipping in Nigeria,”Ani said.
She advised ship owners to build standard ocean going vessel to enable the trained cadets have access to sea time training to enhance manpower.
WISTA Nigeria boss reaffirmed support for initiatives that promote equity, professionalism, and innovation, emphasizing the role of women in advancing a resilient and competitive maritime ecosystem.
The associations pledged continued collaboration with the Ministry, NIMASA, and other sector partners to strengthen the industry’s global standing.
The CVFF Application Portal was expected to streamline access to financing for vessel operators, addressing longstanding challenges in the cabotage regime and boosting investor confidence in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
Recalled that the portal, established under the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act of 2003, was designed to address the financing gap faced by Nigerian shipowners.
From left, Dr Adedoyin Afun, NIMASA lawyer in charge of Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF); Managing Director, Nigeria Ports Authority, Dr Abubakar Dantsoho; Director-General, Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr Dayo Moberola; the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Sen. Wasiu Eshinloku; Permanent. Secretary. Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Hajia Fatima Mahmood and Chairman, House Committee on Maritime Safety, Education and Administration, Mr Khadija Ibrahim, during the unveling of the Application Portal of CVFF held at Eko Hotel in Lagos
CVFF Portal: Gamechanger for indigenous ship owners’ financing – Oyetola
Lagos, January 22, 2026 The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, says the application portal for the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) is a new beginning to end financing challenges faced by ship owners in the country.
Oyetola said this at the unveiling of the CVFF Application Portal held in Lagos on Thursday.
The minister said the portal would enable indigenous ship owners to access the CVFF fund, thereby boosting their operations.
“Through this platform, eligible Nigerian shipowners can submit applications that will be assessed against clearly defined criteria, supported by robust due diligence and professional financial oversight through approved Primary Lending Institutions.
“By digitising the end-to-end CVFF application and evaluation process, we are simplifying access, improving predictability, and ensuring service delivery is efficient, transparent, and responsive.
“I am confident that this initiative will strengthen our shipping industry, empower Nigerian enterprise, and contribute meaningfully to national growth,” Oyetola said.
Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr Adegboyega Oyetola, addressing guests and stakeholders at the unveiling of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) Application Portal in Lagos on Thursday
Oyetola said the the establishment of the portal marked an historic step in Nigeria’s long-awaited journey to operationalise structured financing for indigenous ship ownership.
The minister commended President Bola Tinubu for making a deliberate and strategic step in repositioning Nigeria’s maritime sector as a central pillar of national development.
Declaring the portal open, Oyetola said it aligned with the broader national objective of diversifying the economy and unlocking the vast potential of Nigeria’s maritime domain, coastal resources and inland waterways.
He recalled that the portal, established under the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act of 2003, was designed to address the financing gap faced by Nigerian shipowners.
The minister also acknowledged that institutional and structural considerations over the years delayed its operationalisation.
Oyetola stated that upon assuming office, his ministry adopted a clear policy objective to strengthen the maritime capacity, ensuring that it was implemented strictly in line with sound governance and financial principles.
“The CVFF is structured as a strategic development instrument by facilitating access to competitive vessel financing for indigenous operators.
“We hope to reduce reliance on foreign-flagged vessels in our coastal trade, improve retention of value within the domestic economy.
“Access to the fund will create employment opportunities for Nigerian seafarers, and stimulate growth in allied sectors such as shipbuilding, ship repair, and maritime services,”Oyetola said.
He further noted that a stronger indigenous fleet would enhance maritime safety and security while supporting national efforts to maintain a regulated and efficient maritime domain.
On accountability, Oyetola reminded potential beneficiaries that the CVFF was a revolving fund that should be prudently utilised and repaid to ensure sustainability for future generations of maritime entrepreneurs.
The minister explained that the digital portal would serve as the institutional gateway for transparent administration of the Fund.
Also speaking, Director-General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to ensuring the CVFF delivers on its purpose.
Mobereola said NIMASA had established a dedicated CVFF unit to drive implementation, manage applications, coordinate with financial institutions and ensure strict adherence to eligibility, compliance and risk management procedures.
“Our objective is to make the CVFF work as a practical and reliable financing window for Nigerian shipowners to acquire vessels at competitive long-term financing rates,” he said.
The DG assured that the agency would ensure professional handling of applications, continuous engagement with Primary Lending Institutions, rigorous due diligence, and transparent monitoring of the entire process.
He said the agency remains determined to build confidence in the system and ensure that every disbursement follows clear rules, measurable criteria and global best practice.
In his goodwill message, Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Sen. Wasiu Eshinloku, commended Oyetola and the management for the achievement that responded to longstanding demands of the maritime community.
Eshinloku reminded the beneficiary to use the funds judiciously, adding that the CVFF fund was not a national one but for the betterment of the maritime industry.
He said the portal would fastening indegenous ship owners to own ships which on the long run would create more jobs for Nigerian youths.
Eshinloku pledged continued legislative support to ensure effective implementation of the fund and sustained reforms in the sector.
*CAPTION* L-R: President, WISTA Nig. Dr Odunayo Ani, also Director in NIMASA Chairman, Iroghama OgbeifunNigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Governing Board, Hon. Yusuf Hamisu Abubakar; Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho; Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr Dayo Mobereola; Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola; Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs Fatima Mahmood and Chairman, House Committee on Maritime Safety, Education, and Administration, Hon. Khadija Bukar Abba Ibrahim, and President, WIMAfrica (NIG), Mrs Theodora Nwaeze,during the launch of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) Application Portal in Lagos on Thursday
Chairman, House Committee on Maritime Safety, Education and Administration, Hajia Khadija Ibrahim, reaffirmed the support for the National Assembly for reforms in deeping local content, improving maritime safety.
Ibrahim said the the house would ensure that the CVFF was disbursed strictly in line with the law on the beneficiaries, to utilise for it purpose such as vessel expansion and operations efficiencies.
The president, Nigerian Maritime Law Association, (NMLA), Mike Igbokwe (SAN), commended Tinubu administration for making the 23 years long waiting disbursement of the fund reality for the beneficiaries.
He said the fund was to promote indegenous shipping capacity, adding that capital was important for ship owners to be able to compete with their foreign counterpart.
Igbokwe, one of the pioneer promoters of the CVFF, urged the ministry to follow due process and added that implementation should be properly monitored to attain perfection or the disbursement.
The former President, Nigeria Maritime Law Association, Maritime Lawyer, Mrs Funke Agbor (SAN) commended the Federal Government for the laudable achievement in the history of the maritime industry.
Agbor called for constant technical support in ensuring seamless processing of the CVFF application portal.
“I will like to speak of the approval after all the necessary CVFF application portal have been processed through NIMASA and Priority Sector Lending (PSLs).
” I will like to suggest that the ministerial consent should be delegated within NIMASA which can be very fast, and it won’t be able to get stock in the ministry, Agbor said.
President, Nigerian Chamber of Shipping, Mr Aminu Umar; President of the Nigerian Shipowners Association, Mr Sola Adewunmi, and President of the Shipowners Association of Nigeria, Mr Sonny Eja, all lauded the minister and NIMASA’s effort for their commitment to finally unlocking the CVFF.
The ship owners described the portal launch as a turning point for indigenous ship ownership, capacity development and investor confidence in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
The legal adviser to NIMASA for the disbursement of CVFF, Dr Adedoyin Afun, said the portal was opened to all Cabotage operators, noting that the platform was established to encourage local participation.
*CAPTION* L-R: Chairman, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) Governing Board, Hon. Yusuf Hamisu Abubakar; Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho; Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola; Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola; Chairman, Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun; Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Mrs Fatima Mahmood and Chairman, House Committee on Maritime Safety, Education, and Administration, Hon. Khadija Bukar Abba Ibrahim, during the launch of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) Application Portal in Lagos on Thursday.
The Pioneer Managing Director, Fymak Marine and Oil Services, Dr Ify Nwakwesi, who narrated her experienced after gotten four vessel contract from Exxonmobil during President Olusegun regime.
Nwakwesi also, Executive Chairman, Growth Mindset and Integrative Lifestyle Academy, said Fymak said they funded the contract on short term loan which nearly made them to loss their home.
“Today Fymak Marine is still striving and I will like to appreciate the Director General of NIMASA and his team.
“We must also look into building vessel in Nigeria, we have talent, we have capacity, let’s reduce buying vessels from abroad
The Financial Adviser to NIMASA on VCFF, Mr Yusuf Buhari, said a total of 12 banks were shortlisted to disburse the fund to indegenous cabotage operators, following due process.
Buhari said the CVFF loan would be used within the period of eight years with 6.5 per cent interest rate per annum.
CVFF was established under the Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage) Act of 2003.
It is a vital instrument to provide structured financing for Nigerian shipping companies to acquire vessels and participate meaningfully in domestic maritime trade.
However, for more than two decades, the fund remained largely inaccessible, leaving indigenous operators dependent on costly foreign financing or foreign-flagged vessels.
It recalls that in 2025, Oyetola directed NIMASA to start the process of disbursing the CVFF, signalling the commitment of the firm to actualising the fund’s original intent and unlocking its immense potential for national economic growth.
Responding to this directive, NIMASA issued a Marine Notice, inviting eligible Nigerian shipping companies to submit applications.
Qualified applicants will have the opportunity to access up to 25 million dollars at competitive interest rates to acquire modern vessels that meet stringent international safety and performance standards.
The fund’s administration will be conducted in close collaboration with carefully vetted and approved primary lending institutions, ensuring a professional, efficient and accountable disbursement process.
With the unveiling of the CVFF Application Portal, stakeholders believe Nigeria has taken a long-awaited step toward building a robust indigenous fleet.
They believe this will retain maritime value within the national economy and position the country as a stronger player in the global marine and blue economy.
In his closing remarks, Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services, Mr Jubril Abba, commended efforts of the minister, NIMASA boss and his co-executive for ensuring actualisation of the CVFF disbursement.
Abba acknowledged the resilient and constructive engagement of the stakeholders for continuous courage of the milestone achievement of the progress of CVFF.
He said that the portal signifies practical realisation for long standing policy objective in fulfilling its intended purpose, adding that under President Bola Tinubu’s administration commitment were honoured with concrete action.
The event witnessed, maritime stakeholders, ship owners, master Mariners, Maritime Lawyers, freight forwarders, fish trawlers and the women association in the maritime industry among others.
From forth left The Acting Controller, Kiriri Lighter Terminal command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun, hand over expired chemicals to NAFDAC: generates N147.2bn to the Chief Regulatory Officer of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). (NAFDAC) Ogunjimi Oluwaseun, in Lagos on Friday
Customs intercepts expired chemicals, forfeits container to NAFDAC
Lagos, January 23, 2026 Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Friday handed over a 20-foot container of expired raw materials to the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC).
The Acting Controller of the Command, Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun, made the disclosure at a news conference in Lagos.
As part of efforts to protect public health, addressing newsmen during the handover at the command, the Acting Controller of the Command, Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun,
said the command collected N147.2 billion in revenue in 2025.
Adigun mentioned that the command intercepted a 20-foot container laden with 440 bags, 25kg each of expired Triple Pressed Stearic Acid with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N36.5 million, which was imported from Indonesia.
expired raw materials to NAFDAC: generates N147.2bn, intercepted by Kiriri Lighter Terminal customs command in Lagos
He said the chemicals were intercepted during routine cargo examination just weeks before their expiration date.
“At the particular time of examination, the product was about a month to expiration and part of our guidelines is that if a product is about to be expired, it cannot enter the country.
“The contents of the container were found to violate import regulations and pose potential risks to public health.
“So, it was detained and we secured permission to forfeit the container and hand it over to NAFDAC,” he said.
From 2nd left, the Acting Controller, Kiriri Lighter Terminal command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Deputy Comptroller Bolaji Adigun, during briefing before the hand over of the expired chemicals to NAFDAC in Lagos materials to NAFDAC: generates N147.2bn to the Chief Regulatory Officer of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). (NAFDAC) Ogunjimi Oluwaseun, in Lagos on Friday
Adigun noted that the command intercepted a 40-foot container at one of the terminals named Joliz, adding that the items were falsely declared as zipped luggage, but were found to contain empty suitcases with a DPV of N5.01 million.
“This seizure reinforces the command’s zero-tolerance approach to false declaration, smuggling, and other trade infractions.
“We are committed to facilitating legitimate trade, preventing smuggling, enforcing customs laws, and protecting national revenue.
“We will continue ensuring compliance, safeguarding public health, and promoting efficient trade operations at the terminals,” he said.
On the command’s revenue performance, Adigun said the N147.2 billion collected represents a 35 per cent increase compared to the N107.1 billion collected in 2024.
He said that revenue generated in 2025 significantly exceeded the command’s annual target of N109.4 billion.
Adigun attributed the success to improved revenue drive, enhanced enforcement strategies, and increased compliance among stakeholders.
The Acting Controller expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and his management team for their exemplary leadership and for creating an environment that empowers officers to deliver results.
He also commended the dedication of the officers of the command and the cooperation of compliant stakeholders.
Adeniyi pledged that the command would continue to block revenue leakages and support national health objectives throughout 2026.
Receiving the expired products, the Chief Regulatory Officer of NAFDAC, Mr Ogunjimi Oluwaseun, commended Customs for their collaboration.
He stated that the consignment would be destroyed following a thorough investigation.
