Esther Komolafe

A series of barge explosions on February 19, 2025, has resulted in significant pollution in fishing communities near Cawthorne Channel 1 and Alakiri Kulama in Rivers State. According to a preliminary report by the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), communities such as Ayo-Tamuno, Miebaka, and others nearby may have been impacted. The explosions occurred on barges laden with crude oil, including the BESTAF5 dry crude storage barge, the Goshen Link fuel barge, and the Godgift fuel barge. NIMASA's accident investigation team has collected samples from the incident site and confirmed a visible oil film covering a large portion…

Maritime stakeholders are set to convene for a roundtable discussion on the reintroduced International Cargo Tracking Note (ICTN) this Thursday, February 27, 2025, at the MARAN Secretariats in Apapa GRA, Lagos . The event, organized by the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN), aims to address the controversies surrounding the ICTN and find common grounds for its smooth implementation. The Nigerian Shippers Council (NSC) and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) will deliver paper presentations on the ICTN, while stakeholders from the Shippers' Association of Lagos State, Importers' Association of Nigeria, Sea Empowerment Research Centre, and Widescope Group will share their…

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has reaffirmed its commitment to creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive in Nigeria's maritime industry. Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, emphasized NIMASA's dedication to enhancing local participation and encouraging investment in the sector. To achieve this goal, NIMASA is strengthening its collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) to explore policies that will boost indigenous involvement and strengthen Nigeria's maritime sector. Key areas of focus include national carriers and trade terms, which are top priorities under the current administration. Dr. Mobereola highlighted the importance of creating an…

The Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) has introduced simplified export processes, providing a significant boost to traders and investors. Managing Director, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, made the announcement at the Kaduna International Trade Fair, highlighting the NPA's commitment to facilitating trade and economic growth. The simplified export processes are designed to eliminate bureaucratic overlaps and duplications that previously hindered Nigerian exports. The NPA has established Export Process Terminals (EPTs) to serve as one-stop-shops for cargo consolidation, documentation, and certification. Key Features of the Simplified Export Processes: One-Stop-Shop: EPTs will provide a single platform for exporters to access all necessary services. Electronic Call-U…

Stakeholders in Nigeria's maritime industry converged at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Thursday, February 20, 2025, to discuss and collaborate on reviving the Nigerian Maritime Expo (NIMAREX). The event aims to bring together government agencies, shipowners, master mariners, lawyers, journalists, and researchers to showcase the enormous potentials of Nigeria's maritime industry. Led by Former Chairman of the Indigenous Shipowners Association of Nigeria (ISAN), Funmi Folorunsho, the planning committee includes notable stakeholders such as Chairman of the Ports Consultative Forum, Bolaji Sunmola, and Captain Ebubeogu Iheanacho. The committee emphasized the need for collaboration to promote Nigeria's maritime…

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Seme Area Command has taken a strategic step to bolster collaboration and enhance operational efficiency. Between February 19 and 20, 2025, Customs Area Controller Comptroller Benedict Oramalugo, PhD, paid courtesy visits to key traditional leaders and security agencies in Badagry, Lagos State. During his engagement, Comptroller Oramalugo emphasized the importance of synergy between Customs and local authorities in ensuring a secure environment for legitimate trade. He also visited top security formations, including the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigerian Navy, and Nigerian Police Division, to discuss strengthening intelligence-sharing, improving border security, and tackling smuggling . Comptroller Oramalugo…