Esther Komolafe

Master mariner and former Minister of Interior, Captain Emmanuel Ihenacho; pioneer SOAN President and Starzs Group Chairman, Engr. Greg Ogbeifun; and ex-ANLCA National President and Skellas Group CEO, Prince Olayiwola Shittu, have confirmed attendance at the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) reception honouring its past presidents. The landmark event, set for Friday, April 24, 2026, at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos, is fast becoming a melting point for top players in the maritime industry. Dignitaries from the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, regulators, terminal operators, shipping firms, freight forwarders, and corporate bodies have also pledged to attend. Founded 38…

The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has announced advanced preparations for a landmark reception celebrating its distinguished past presidents, recognizing their leadership and lasting impact on Nigeria’s maritime industry. The high-profile event, slated for April 24, 2026, at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos, will draw ministry officials, regulators, terminal operators, shipping firms, freight forwarders, and other key stakeholders. It aims to honour past leaders while reinforcing the role of maritime journalism in shaping policy and driving sectoral growth. MARAN Caretaker Committee Chairman, Tunde Ayodele, said the reception will reflect on the legacies of past presidents who positioned the association as…

President Bola Tinubu has commissioned the newly completed office complex of the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), located in Iperu, Ogun State. The project, estimated to cost N73 billion, aims to enhance the welfare of customs officers and improve trade facilitation. Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, revealed that only 45% of the project is completed, and the service is seeking presidential approval to revise the budget. Adeniyi expressed optimism that the project would be completed within President Tinubu's tenure . The relocation from the Ikeja base was necessitated by operational expansion, and the…

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) is set to revolutionise the nation's ports with the implementation of the National Single Window Project and Ports Modernisation system. The initiative, covering all ports nationwide, aims to tackle pressing issues such as port congestion and delays in cargo clearance. NPA Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, disclosed that the modernisation project will kick off in Lagos with a significant investment of $700 million from the Federal Government. The agency is also working to improve logistics, including rail transportation and alternative cargo transport options. The NPA is reviewing the Efficiency, Throughput, and Optimization (ETO) initiative to…

The Nigerian government is working to modernise its ports, with a $700 million investment aimed at improving efficiency and reducing congestion. The project, which covers all ports in Nigeria, is expected to address issues such as cargo clearance and transportation. Stakeholders are advised to exercise patience as the government works to create a conducive environment for trade and commerce. Alternative modes of transportation, including waterways and rail, are available for cargo evacuation. The government emphasizes that the success of the modernisation project depends on collaboration and a robust legal framework, which is essential for attracting investors and ensuring sustainable growth.…

The Electronic Tagging Operation (ETO) has been a game-changer for Nigeria's logistics chain, addressing challenges and benefiting residents of Apapa. A lady who participated in the International Women's Day celebration noted that the ETO has made travel easier, citing her experience driving from Gbagada to Apapa without a visa. However, with the contract expiring, a review is underway to identify areas for improvement. The  Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Dr Dantosho has assured during an interactive session with the media in Lagos that NPA  is working with stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition and maintain the system's effectiveness.…