Flowerbud News

Author: Felix Ajide

  • Customs seizes $29,000 from travelers, hands it over to EFCC

    Caption: An official of EFCC, Mrs Amachree Ibinabi; Customs Area Controller, Muritala International Airport command, Comptroller, Effiong Harrison, and the Deputy Comptroller of Customs Anti Money Laundering and Countering, Mas’ud Salihu, during the handover of $29,000 due to false declaration

    Lagos – The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Command, has handed over $29,000 seized from two male passengers to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    Handing over the foreign currency to the EFCC in Lagos on Tuesday, the comptroller in charge of (MMIA) Command, Effiong Harrison, said that the money was falsely declared by the passengers at the airport.

    Harrison, who handed over the intercepted currency following the directive of the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adeniyi, said the suspect’s action was in contravention of the provisions of Money Laundering Prohibition Act 2011.

    The command head said the passengers’ International Passports and other relevant documents were also handed over to the EFCC for necessary action.

    He said: ‘The suspect were two Indian male passengers about to travel to India with an Emirate Flight on Tuesday.

    “He approached the Currency Declaration Desk and declared a total $6,000. Upon examination, additional sum of $23,000 was discovered neatly concealed in different packages. thereby bringing the total sum to $29,000.

    “This is in contravention of the provisions of Money Laundering Prohibition Act 2011.

    “This Act stipulates that any currency or other forms of negotiable instruments where the value exceeds $10,000 threshold or its equivalent must be properly declared for inbound and outbound passengers.”

    Harrison said the command was committed to arresting and stopping unlawful activities that brought the country into disrepute.

    The controller said that customs was ready and continuously collaborating with stakeholders and other relevant government agencies in ensuring that those who are engaged in money laundering do not use international airport in Lagos for their criminal activities.

    He said that they had sensitisation programmes to promote a situation whereby the country was safe and would also encourage foreigners to do business in Nigeria.

    Harrison further stated that Customs was working toward promoting a system where investors would have confidence to come to Nigeria to do business in line with government policies.

    He warned offenders to desist, adding that economic policies were not being adhered to, and Nigeria was losing revenue as a result of such activities.

    He said that the the suspects should have told the truth and declared accordingly.

    Harrison said customs was handing over the money and their travelling documents and all other information that they gave to customs voluntarily to the EFCC for further investigation.

    While receiving the suspects and the foreign currencies, the Acting Director, Lagos Office 2 of the EFCC, Mr Ahmed Ghali, who was represented by EFCC officer Mrs Amachree Ibinabi, commended the efforts of the comptroller and officers of the command.

    Ghali urged members of the public to be wary of such act, adding that the provision of the law was very clear on money declaration.

    He explained that passengers were allowed to carry along 10,000 dollars while traveling and arriving the country and any additional money would be declared.

    “The law required the traveller to make honest declaration.

    “Nobody will stop you from travelling with your cash in as much as you declare, no matter the amount.

    “We sensitise the public on their obligations, in terms of currency declaration. Having done that this afternoon, we now have this seizure.

    “It’s also to show the public that the sensitisation is to prevent Incidences like this. But, whereas, the prevention now fails, the EFCC is always there to ensure that the laws are properly enforced.

    “This case will be properly investigated and persecuted accordingly,” he said.
    ============

  • TAAC: Afolabi calls for port infrastructure renewal at Maritime Conference

    Caption From Left, the Deen of Faculty of Law, UNILAG, Prof. (SAN) Abiola Sanni, third left, Dr Mercy Ilorin, Director Maritime Services, Director General Nigeria Chamber of Commerce, Mrs Vivian Chinmezie-Azubuike, and Prof. Adewale Olawonyin during the 7th edition of Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime Conference held in UNILAG

    Dr Taiwo Afolabi, Chairman, SIFAX Group, has advocated for overhaul infrastructure at the country’s seaports.

    Afolabi made the disclosure during the 7th edition of the Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime (TAAM) Conference held on Friday at the University of Lagos

    The SIFAX boss noted that the provision of the relevant infrastructure at ports across the country was the bedrock of an efficient port system that would tap into the enormous potential of the country’s maritime industry.

    Afolabi who was represented by the Group Coordinating Director, SIFAX Group, Mrs Wunmi Jegede, said that this year’s theme was, “Blue Economy Innovations: The Sustainable Impact of Infrastructure Development and Modernisation in Maritime”.

    “Nigeria’s blue economy Is a sleeping giant. We have untapped potential along our vast coastline that, if harnessed responsibly, can create new jobs, strengthen our ports, attract investments, and safeguard our environment for future generations.

    “Infrastructure is at the heart of this transformation. Modern, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure will drive efficiency and competitiveness in our ports and maritime corridors,” Afolabi said.

    He said that the conference, a collaboration between SIFAX Group and The Maritime Forum, University of Lagos, had growned into one of Nigeria’s most respected platforms for maritime discourse, policy reflection and industry networking.

    Afolabi said that the key objective of this annual conference was to create an intelligent and knowledge-driven platform that would bridge the gap between the industry and the ivory tower.

    “We wanted students to see what lies beyond their textbooks, to ask bold questions, and to connect directly with those shaping policy and driving change.

    “I am proud that today this vision continues to grow, and that this platform has become one of the most respected gatherings for maritime discourse in any Nigerian university.

    The Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the event, has unveiled a reform agenda aimed at repositioning the maritime sector for innovation, security, and sustainable growth.

    The maritime reform is to ensure the overhauling of critical port infrastructure, drive digital transformation, and entrench environmentally responsible practices across the industry.

    Oyetola, represented by the Director of Maritime Services of the Ministry, Dr Mercy Ilori, described the establishment of the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry as a deliberate step by the Bola Tinubu administration.

    He said that the establishment of the ministry aimed at harnessing Nigeria’s vast coastal and marine assets for national development.

    Oyetola noted that the Federal Executive Council had approved a National Policy on Marine and Blue Economy to serve as the strategic framework for unlocking opportunities in ports, fisheries, marine biotechnology, ocean governance, renewable energy, coastal tourism, and climate resilience.

    “We are not just building infrastructure; we are building the future.

    “Innovation must drive Nigeria’s approach to port rehabilitation, environmental safeguards, service delivery, and industry partnerships,” Oyetola said.

    The minister said that the Federal Government had begun an aggressive rehabilitation of critical port infrastructure.

    “We are advancing the Western Ports Rehabilitation Programme, including the reconstruction of Apapa and Tin Can Island Ports.

    “Procurement processes are ongoing for the rehabilitation of the Eastern Ports,” he added.

    Oyetola explained that the physical upgrades were being matched with digital initiatives such as the Port Community System and the One-Stop-Shop platform, which were already improving operational efficiency and reducing cargo delays.

    On shipping development, the minister noted of the government’s commitment to reviving the National Carrier through a public-private partnership.

    He also said that the long-delayed Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) would soon be disbursed to indigenous operators to boost local shipping capacity.

    According to him, the ministry’s digitalisation push across its agencies is already yielding tangible results in revenue generation, transparency, and service efficiency.

    He further explained that infrastructure growth would not come at the expense of the environment, adding that the ministry was prioritising sustainable, energy-efficient port development.

    Oyetola said that government was making deliberate efforts to cut carbon emissions, reduce waste, and encourage recycling across the maritime value chain.

    As part of Nigeria’s bid to shape global maritime policies, Oyetola disclosed that the country had formally launched its campaign to secure a Category “C” seat on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Council.

    In her keynote address, Mrs Jean-Chiazor Anishere, (SAN), Vice President Port Consultative Council (PCC), underscored the need for smart, green, and inclusive port systems as critical drivers for the sustainable growth of the maritime sector.

    Anishere, who was represented by a maritime lawyer, Mrs Gloria Kanabe, emphasised that the blue economy must go beyond economic growth to ensure environmental protection and regional connectivity.

    She urged students and young professionals to see themselves as architects of a sustainable maritime future, calling on them to embrace innovation, leadership, and cross-sector collaboration.

    “The oceans we build on must be the oceans we protect.

    “Our choices in infrastructure and development will determine whether we harness their potential wisely or irreversibly damage them,”Anishere said.

    The Deen of Faculty of Law, University of Lagos, Prof. Abiola Sanni, commended Dr Afolabi for recognising the way to shape the future of the youths.

    He said that the conference had grown into one of the most respected intellectual platforms for maritime discourse in Nigeria, bridging the gap between students and industry stakeholders.

    Sanni sought internship opportunities for their students, to enable them spend some times in bridging the gaps between theories and practicals.

    In his welcome remarks, Mr Enoch Aderounmu, President of the Maritime Forum, University of Lagos, charged youths to see themselves not as future leaders but as leaders of today.

    Aderounmu emphasised the urgent need for proactive leadership, ethical responsibility, continuous innovation, and inclusive partnerships across academia, industry, and government.

    He highlighted the Maritime Forum’s 10-year journey, which had empowered thousands of students through mentorship, internships, and high-impact programmes, including the Maritime Masterclass, an educational excursion to Lekki Deep Sea Port.

    He said that the Taiwo Afolabi Annual Maritime Conference, was a joint collaboration between SIFAX Group and the Maritime Forum of the University of Lagos.
    ============

  • Gov. Otu Predicts Stronger Showing for Tinubu in 2027, Cites Ongoing Reforms

    Gov. Otu Predicts Stronger Showing for Tinubu in 2027, Cites Ongoing Reforms

    By Nsa Gill

    Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has expressed strong confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s prospects for the 2027 presidential election, predicting a significantly improved performance both in Cross River State and nationwide.

    The Governor made the remarks during an endorsement rally organized by the Cross River Southern Consultative Forum at the U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar on Wednesday, in support of President Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    Governor Otu attributed his optimism to the bold and ongoing reforms spearheaded by President Tinubu, citing initiatives such as the Tax Reform Law, federal backing for the Bakassi Deep Seaport, the extension of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway into Cross River, and the rollout of Special Agro-Industrial Zones across the country.

    “President Tinubu is not shying away from tough but necessary decisions. He is driving reforms with boldness and clarity of purpose,” the Governor stated. He went on to predict that the President would secure over 90% of the vote in Cross River State in 2027, a notable turnaround from the 2023 election, where the APC fell short in the Presidential polls in the state.

    According to Governor Otu, like many speakers in the event, Governor Otu’s popularity, earned through impactful achievements in economic development, infrastructure, and security over the past two years, will be a major factor in galvanizing support for the President’s re-election bid.

    The endorsement event attracted political stakeholders; youths, women groups, trade bodies, and traditional leaders from the seven local government areas in the Southern Senatorial District: Akamkpa, Akpabuyo, Bakassi, Biase, Calabar Municipal, Calabar South, and Odukpani. It follows similar endorsements from the Central and Northern Senatorial Districts, suggesting growing statewide momentum.

    Barr. Eyo-Nsa Ekpo, Chairman of the Cross River Southern Consultative Forum, described the endorsement as a clear vote of confidence in both President Tinubu and Governor Otu. He lauded the Governor’s “people-oriented leadership” and his commitment to State development and citizen-led needs. “Governor Otu has redefined governance in Cross River by responding directly to citizens’ demands,” Ekpo said.

    In his address, Governor Otu expressed surprise at the massive turnout, which he interpreted as public affirmation of his administration’s efforts. He highlighted ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal enclaves, stimulate economic revival, restore tourism, and improve public service delivery. “I see myself as a servant, driven by a divine mandate,” he stated, echoing sentiments from religious leaders who noted that security has improved so significantly that churches have resumed overnight vigils without fear.

    Representatives from local government areas offered concrete examples of the Governor’s impact. In Akamkpa, residents cited ongoing road construction in Obun, the fulfilment of campaign promises, and the establishment of the new University of Education and Entrepreneurship. In Odukpani, the development of Nigeria’s largest gas field under Governor Otu’s watch was hailed as a historic economic milestone. In Biase, the Governor’s popularity is credited with rendering opposition parties virtually nonexistent.

    Traditional rulers also lent their voices to the endorsement. Professor Itam Hogan Itam, the Paramount Ruler of the Efuts, interpreted the light rain during the event as a sign of ancestral blessing. Etubom Architect Bassey Eyo-Ndem echoed this symbolism, calling it a divine endorsement; “our gods, the land, the wind and the sea are all in agreement”.

    The event not only affirmed the growing support for Governor Otu’s administration but also reinforced the alignment between his governance agenda and President Tinubu’s national vision anchored on the renewed hope agenda.

    While the 2027 elections remain two years away, the endorsements signal strong grassroots support and a positive trajectory for both leaders in Cross River State and across the South-south geo-political zone

    As Governor Otu crosses the midpoint of his first term, Wednesday’s rally stands as both a validation of his leadership and a potential foundation for sustained political and developmental success.

    Nsa Gill is the Special Adviser, Public Affairs to Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State.
    ===========

  • Customs Service Generates 747bn  Revenue in First Half of 2025 in Tincan Island Port

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tincan Island Port Command, says it generated N747.08 billion in the first half of 2025, representing a 29.85 per cent increase over the N575.36 billion collected during the same period in 2024.

    The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Oscar Ivara, made the disclosure in a statement in Lagos on Thursday, saying that the command reached 98.03 per cent of its target for the period.

    Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, attributed the performance to improved compliance, stakeholder engagement, and the rollout of the new B’Odogwu clearance system.

    Onyeka said that the the command had so far processed 2,749 of the 3,450 Single Goods Declarations (SGDs) received under the B’Odogwu platform.

    “Several training sessions and workshops, both virtual and physical, have been conducted to equip stakeholders with practical knowledge of the new clearance process.

    “Monthly collections showed upward movement, with N116.4 billion recorded in January, N103.2 billion in February, N128.2 billion in March, N145.0 billion in April, N128.4 billion in May, and N125.6 billion in June. The June figure marked a notable rise from the N83.19 billion collected in the same month in 2024.

    “Customs at Tincan, freight forwarders disagree over collapse of “one-stop-shop initiative,”Onyeka said.

    On anti-smuggling efforts, the command reported the seizure of containers of substances valued at over N8.05 billion.

    He explained further that two 20-foot containers were intercepted and found to contained a mix of cannabis indica and crystal methamphetamine weighing over 1,000 kilograms.

    Onyeka said the intercepted illicit substances had been transferred to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further action.

    In a separate operation, Onyeka said that command also intercepted arms and ammunition concealed in a 40-foot container transporting four used vehicles.

    “The consignment included pistols, live and blank ammunition, handcuffs, and tactical equipment.

    “The items, along with the consignee and declarant, were handed over to the Department of State Services (DSS) for further action.

    Comptroller Onyeka acknowledged the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, whose recently elected as Chairman of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council.

    He described the Comptroller-General elevation as a source of encouragement to officers.

    Onyeka urged for continued professionalism and vigilance among personnel, while also commending port stakeholders for their cooperation on intelligence sharing.

    ============

  • Nigeria maintains zero piracy in 3 years – Oyetola

    Caption From 3rd left, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alh. Adegboyega Oyetola, with the Maritime Security Agencies during the stakeholders engagement held in Lagos on Thursday

    Lagos – The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alh. Adegboyega Oyetola, said Nigeria had recorded zero piracy in its waters for three years through the Deep Blue Project.

    Oyetola revealed this on Thursday during a one-day stakeholder engagement held in Lagos.

    He said maritime security remains central to the ministry’s mandate and has earned Nigeria global commendation and helped regional maritime stability.

    He added that Nigeria’s offer to host the African Union Combined Maritime Task Force in Lagos had received endorsement from the AU Peace and Security Council.

    Oyetola commended stakeholders’ efforts, affirming widespread support for President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda in repositioning the sector for national development.

    He said creating the Marine and Blue Economy Ministry is a major reform. The approval of its national policy marks a critical turning point.

    The policy covers port infrastructure, security, aquaculture, ocean governance, marine biotechnology, renewable energy, coastal tourism, and climate resilience.

    “Our meeting today is not ceremonial. It is a working forum to design actionable frameworks, set priorities, and allocate institutional responsibilities.

    “In doing so, we must enhance coordination, ensure accountability, and build capacity across all operational levels,” Oyetola said.

    The Minister disclosed that a Nigeria-flagged vessel berthed at Tincan Island Port on July 2, with 359 containers of goods.

    He noted that since the ministry’s establishment in 2023, it has worked with its agencies to effectively implement its ministerial deliverables.

    Oyetola said an evaluation by the presidential policy office and CRDCU showed a 75 per cent performance score for the ministry by the end of 2024.

    He praised the Delivery Task Teams’ efforts across the ministry and urged them to remain focused and uphold excellence in their duties.

    “Our top priority is modernising port infrastructure. Contracts for Apapa and Tin Can Ports rehabilitation have been approved. Eastern port procurement is ongoing,” he said.

    He added that digital tools like the Port Community System and E-Call-Up System would help reduce delays and boost investor confidence.

    Oyetola said the ministry is strengthening indigenous shipping capacity and reviving the National Carrier through a public-private partnership model.

    NIMASA, he noted, has started preparations for disbursing the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund, which will follow a transparent process.

    “When operational, the Fund will significantly boost Nigerian shipping operators’ opportunities,” he said.

    On revenue and service delivery, Oyetola said the ministry had seen consistent growth, improved efficiency, closed leakages, and attracted private capital into the sector.

    He highlighted NIWA’s efforts in implementing the 2023 Inland Waterways Transportation Regulation and launching a nationwide water safety campaign.

    He said NIWA had distributed over 42,000 safety jackets, deployed ferries and patrol boats, and trained marshals, which has reduced boat mishaps.

    The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, represented by Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, urged stakeholders to intensify their commitment to maritime resource development.

    Dr Odunayo Ani, President of WISTA Nigeria, commended the ministry for the National Marine and Blue Economy Policy.

    She said the policy demonstrated the government’s commitment to ocean governance, economic diversification, job creation, and environmental sustainability.

    Ani praised the ministry’s synergy between public and private stakeholders, describing collaboration as vital for implementing the national blueprint.

    “WISTA and other women’s groups support gender equity, capacity building, and innovation in the marine and blue economy.

    “We welcome the ministry’s recognition of women’s roles and will support the agenda through advocacy, training, and partnerships,” Ani said.

    Chief Greg Ogbeifun, former President of the Ship Owners Association, commended the ministry and called for more private sector involvement.

    Mr Godfrey Nwosu, General Secretary of NAGAFF, appreciated the minister for implementing policies that removed bottlenecks in the maritime sector.
    ============

  • Apapa customs Command shuts down 3 terminals, intercepts 27 containers

    From left, The Director Ports Inspectorate of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) Dr Olakunle Olaniyan, the fourth left Comptroller Babatunde Olomu and the last Strategic Commander of Narcotics, Apapa command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Buba Wakawa during a news conference held in Apapa command on Thursday in Lagos

    Lagos – The Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has sealed three bonded terminals in Apapa for various infractions, with one terminal charged to court for prosecution.

    The Customs Area Controller (CAC) Apapa Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, disclosed this during a media conference held in Lagos on Thursday.

    Olomu stated that investigations were ongoing for the remaining two bonded terminals.

    He warned perpetrators of illegal operations to desist from such activities, adding that the Apapa Command is staffed by “eagle-eyed officers”.

    He revealed that between January and June 2025, the command intercepted 27 containers with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N9.2 billion.

    Nine of these seizures included containers carrying unregistered pharmaceuticals, used clothing, expired margarine, wild animal skins, and codeine syrup.

    The Apapa Customs Controller further explained that the seizures comprised 10 containers of unregistered pharmaceuticals, two containers of codeine syrup, two containers of stolen vehicles, and four containers of second-hand clothing, among other items.

    He said, “These 27 container seizures are a fallout of our efforts to prevent Nigerians from unwholesome foods and drugs, stop illicit trade, and protect our local industries.

    “We will never compromise the health, well-being, or safety of Nigerians on the altar of trade facilitation. Every consignment passing through our port undergoes diligent checks through scanning and physical examination when required.”

    He emphasised that unregistered pharmaceuticals were the most prominent items among the 28 seizures made by the command during the period under review.

    The seizures also included controlled drugs, used clothes, codeine syrup, wild animal skins, and other sundry items.

    Olomu highlighted that trafficking in wild animals contravenes the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), to which Nigeria is a signatory.

    He also noted the detention of a container of matches imported without the required End User Certificate (EUC), as stipulated by extant laws.

    A cross section of media AMD maritime stakeholders during a press conference organised the the Apapa Customs command in Lagos on Thursday.

    On trade facilitation, Olomu disclosed that the command generated N1.37 billion between January and June as revenue for the Federal Government.

    He urged all officers of the command to redouble their efforts to surpass the command’s target for 2025.

    Olomu acknowledged the support of sister agencies in intelligence sharing and joint consultations aimed at national security.

    He attributed the command’s success to the Comptroller-General’s directives, which emphasise maximum collection of government revenue by preventing leakages and applying demand notices (DN) when necessary.

    Speaking at the conference, Buba Wakawa, the Strategic Commander of Narcotics, Apapa Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), explained that importers of fake pharmaceuticals and other illicit drugs often use fake companies and addresses.

    “Most of the drugs being imported are brought in the name of fake companies.

    “We have some cases we are prosecuting at the Federal High Court, and we have to use their NIN to trace the perpetrators. However, if you use the bill of lading, it won’t lead anywhere,” he said.

    Dr Olakunle Olaniyan, Director of Ports Inspectorate for the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), condemned the smuggling of pharmaceutical products, labeling smugglers as “economy saboteurs.”

    Olaniyan stressed that medicines are meant for the sick, not for facilitating criminal activities in society.

    He commended Customs for the continuous interception of illicit substances and urged everyone to collaborate in the fight, advising the public to be vigilant.

    Alhaji Abdul Fatai Babajide, a freight forwarder with over 24 years of experience, commended Customs for the robust synergy with stakeholders.

    Babajide encouraged stakeholders to continue discussions on “B’odogwu” to address challenges encountered while logging out from the newly introduced operational platform for cargo processing.

    ============

  • Al-Hikmah University appoints Prof. Lateef Oladimeji as 6th Vice-Chancellor

    Al-Hikmah University Governing Council as approved the appointment of Professor Lateef Folorunsho Oladimeji, as the 6th Substantive Vice-Chancellor.

    This is contained in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the institution, Mr Femi Afolayan and made available to newsmen on Thursday in Ilorin.

    Prior to his appointment, Prof. Oladimeji was the Dean of the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

    Oladimeji has previously served in various administrative positions within the university, among which was; pioneer Head, Department of Islamic Studies, a pioneer member of the University Senate till date, the pioneer Registrar and Secretary to Council, pioneer Director, Centre for Part-Time and Professional Studies (CPPS); Director, Centre for Research, Industrial Linkages and International Collaboration (CRIIC), pioneer Director of Information Unit, Director Academic Planning (DAP) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (DVC).

    Prof. Lateef Folorunsho Oladimeji was born on the 9th April, 1963 in Lagos to the family of late Chief Imam Alh. Oseni Oladimeji and Alhaja Muneerat Oladimeji.

    He hails from Doyin Compound of Oko-Ode in Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State. He attended Lagos Secondary Commercial Academy,(LASCA), Obanikoro, Lagos. Prof. Oladimeji gained admission to the university of Ilorin in 1983 where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree (B.A. Hons.) with Second Class Honours (Upper Division) in Islamic Studies.

    The new Vice-Chancellor lectured at the Kwara State College of Education, Oro, as Assistant Lecturer in 1992. He rose through the ranks to the position of Principal Lecturer and Head of Department of Islamic Studies and was there till 2006 when he withdrew his service from the College to join the newly established Al-Hikmah University as Lecturer 1

    He took over from Professor Noah Yusuf, who completed his tenure on July 13, 2025.
    ============

  • Customs Apapa Command Generates N1.3trn, Seeks Stakeholders’ Collaboration

    Customs Apapa Command Generates N1.3trn, Seeks Stakeholders’ Collaboration

    Caption: From fifth left, Customs Area Controller, Apapa Customs Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olumu and the National Executive of the Association of Nigeria Clearing Agents during customs visit to the association Headquarters in Lagos

    Lagos – The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, says it generated N1.3 trillion in six months.

    The area command also seeks partnership with National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) and Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA).

    Comptroller Dr Babatunde Olomu, Area Controller of Apapa Customs, revealed this while leading his team on a familiarisation visit to ANLCA and NAGAFF offices in Lagos on Tuesday.

    Olomu commended the associations for their collaboration, which he said contributed to achieving the service’s mandate of revenue generation and improved trade facilitation.

    He disclosed that the command generated N1.378 trillion in six months, attributing the success to the compliance of key stakeholders like NAGAFF and ANLCA.

    He acknowledged the support from ANLCA and said the command generated N2.357 trillion in 2024, a figure that reflected shared commitment to national revenue growth.

    Olomu explained that the visit aligned with CGC Bashir Adeniyi’s directive for strong stakeholder engagement and to strengthen the long-standing bond with freight forwarders.

    He highlighted the CGC’s appointment as head of the World Customs Organisation, calling it a positive development for Nigeria and the global customs community.

    “This signifies our credibility as a Customs administration. However, we need the active support of credible freight forwarder associations like yours,” Olomu said.

    Olomu stressed that together, they must uphold compliance, due diligence, and apply global best practices in all customs and trade-related activities.

    He urged freight forwarders and clearing agents to make honest declarations and comply fully with import and export guidelines, including accurate duty payments.

    The Apapa area controller praised ANLCA’s pioneering role in the maritime industry, saying the command remains proud to be associated with the body.

    He also described NAGAFF as a symbol of professionalism and resilience, commending its founder, Dr Boniface Aniebonam, for sustaining the vision for 25 years.

    Olomu said customs officers are vital to the logistics ecosystem and called for continued collaboration to drive Nigeria’s economy through seaports, airports, and excise factories.

    He applauded ANLCA and NAGAFF for their involvement in various customs training programmes, key to sustainable, locally driven customs modernisation in Nigeria.

    Caption: From fifth left, Customs Area Controller, Apapa Customs Command, Comptroller Babatunde Olumu and the National Executive of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders during customs visit to the association Headquarters in Lagos on Tuesday

    Olomu advised members of both associations to prioritise their health and practise a work-life balance for improved well-being and job performance.

    “Routine medical check-ups help prevent high blood pressure, hypertension, stroke, and other avoidable ailments. Also, engage in regular physical exercise,” Olomu added.

    He encouraged members to access the Apapa Customs medical facility, offered at low cost as part of the Command’s Corporate Social Responsibility.

    NAGAFF President, Chief Tochukwu Ezisi, appreciated Olomu’s visit, calling it an opportunity to deepen cooperation and strengthen cargo clearing reforms.

    Ezisi said the meeting reflects a shared goal of making Nigeria’s port operations more transparent, secure, and efficient through sustained partnership.

    He added that dialogue between regulators and stakeholders is essential to fostering a competitive and business-friendly port environment.

    “At NAGAFF, we support reforms that ease business, protect national interest, and align operations with global standards.

    “Let this visit renew our joint commitment to trust, practical action, and sustainable progress,” Ezisi said.

    ANLCA Apapa Chairman, Chief Emeka Chukwumalu, applauded Comptroller Olomu’s leadership and contributions to customs processes and members’ welfare.

    He praised Olomu for granting ANLCA members the call-up entrance wallet, which streamlined activities and brought notable financial benefits.

    Chukwumalu highlighted a reduction in transport costs from N1.2 billion to N350 million, improving member profitability and reducing operational burdens.

    He appreciated the logistics and facility support provided for vital training sessions that advanced knowledge and skills within the industry.

    He lauded Olomu’s openness and urged for continued support in key areas to further boost trade facilitation.

    In response, Olomu assured both associations of his unwavering support and pledged to promptly address the issues raised during the engagement.

    The event also featured the decoration of the Apapa Customs Area Comptroller, Comptroller Olomu by the NAGAFF President Tochukwu; while other members of the Apapa Customs management entourage equally got the association’s lapel pin.
    ===========

  • Interior ministry reduces passport delay — Minister

    By Ibironke Ariyo and Kennedy Sheyin

    The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, says the Ministry of Interior in collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has successfully reduced the waiting time for passport processing.

    Tunji-Ojo made this known on Monday in Abuja during a major stakeholders’ sensitisation workshop on recent innovations introduced by the NIS.

    The Minister said that the reduced waiting period was a result of the ongoing automation of the passport application system.

    This, he said, now enabled applicants to upload documents themselves while eliminating bureaucratic delays and improving operational integrity.

    “As long as there is no query with your data or background, you will get your passport within two to three weeks, which is fast by any standards.

    “We started with the automation of our passport application system where people upload documents themselves, which has saved the ministry almost a billion naira annually.

    “This also gives us time to verify the documents ahead of time. This improves the integrity of our system. We have cured the madness of scarcity of passports,” he said.

    Tunji-Ojo also highlighted the challenges faced by Nigerians in the diaspora regarding passport renewals, adding that new technology now enabled swift processing from the comfort of their homes.

    He said “we realised that our people in the diaspora spend months looking for appointments to renew their passports, spending money they don’t have. That is not right.

    “We introduced a system where passport renewal is easy. Today, if you want to renew, within 10 minutes in the comfort of your home, you can renew your passport. Your phone is an immigration office.”

    In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, emphasised the critical role of the workshop in ensuring a shared understanding of the reforms.

    Ajani said that the engagement was critical for sharing policy illumination and ensuring shared understanding of the operational shift of immigration in Nigeria.

    She said that the global landscape of migration was evolving.

    “In response, the Nigerian Immigration Service under the minister’s leadership has undertaken serious and bold transformative reforms.

    “This workshop will highlight those innovations which include the upgraded e-visa and e-CERPAC platform, Nigerian certified immigration agent framework.

    “Others are mandatory expatriate comprehensive insurance policy, and deployment of e-gate at major points of entry.

    “These are all designed to modernise our migration architecture, enhance compliance and improve service delivery. Your role in this workshop is indispensable,” she maintained.

    Earlier, the NIS Comptroller General, Mrs Kemi Nandap, said that the event represented more than just the unveiling of documents.

    Nandap said that It marked a reflection of the collective effort to reposition the immigration service and all institutions committed to operational excellence.

    This, she said included national security and facilitation of legitimate migration in line with international practices.

    “The guide to ‘Nigerian Immigration Processes 2025’ captures the comprehensive reforms undertaken to enhance transparency.

    “It also simplifies access to immigration services and fosters confidence amongst migrants, investors and the general public,”she said.

    The NIS CG added that the workshop was designed to ensure seamless transition to the updated processes the NIS is embarking on.(NAN)
    ============