Esther Komolafe

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has appointed Dr. Bolaji Akinola as his Adviser on Media and Communications. Dr. Akinola, a seasoned maritime and corporate communications expert, brings over 25 years of experience and deep industry knowledge to his new role. Dr. Akinola's Background: CEO of Ships & Ports Communication Company: A leading maritime media and public relations organization Expertise: Strategic communications, maritime sector analysis, port reforms, maritime security, shipping development, and Blue Economy Academic Credentials*: Doctorate Degree: Media and Communications, Pan-Atlantic University, Lagos    Master's Degrees:  MBA, Lagos Business School; Master of Transport Management, Ladoke Akintola…

The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) is set to host a crucial breakfast meeting to discuss the Nigeria-China Currency Swap Deal, a pact aimed at facilitating bilateral trade by providing Naira liquidity to Chinese businesses and Yuan liquidity to Nigerian businesses. This move seeks to reduce reliance on foreign currencies for transactions, promoting smoother trade between the two nations ¹. Key Details Date : Tuesday 15th of April 2025 Time: 10:00 AM Venue:: Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos *Theme:* "Navigating the Nigeria-Peoples Republic Of China Currency Swap: Opportunities and Challenges for Import, Export and Maritime Business" Expected Attendees: Government Representatives*:…

The Nigeria Employers' Consultative Association (NECA) has commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for introducing impactful policy reforms and operational improvements under the current administration. NECA President, Dr. Ifeanyi Okoye, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, on April 7, 2025, to strengthen collaboration on trade facilitation and private sector development. Key Reforms Commended: Advance Ruling System: Enables businesses to obtain advance rulings on tariff classification, reducing uncertainty and disputes. Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme: Recognizes trusted traders and provides benefits such as faster clearance times and reduced inspections. Time Release Study: Measures…

The Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) has confirmed the participation of key government and industry leaders at its forthcoming breakfast meeting focused on the Nigeria-Peoples Republic Of China currency swap. Notable attendees include : Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor*: Mr. Olayemi Cardoso has assured MARAN of full representation at the meeting. Federal Ministry of Finance: Representatives have expressed interest in participating. Chairman of the Customs Consultative Council*: Aare Hakeem Olanrewaju, Chairman of the breakfast meeting, has committed to being present. Other Confirmed Participants: Chinese Embassy: Representatives are expected to attend. Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA)*: Members…

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has successfully issued its first Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR) under the B’Odogwu Unified Customs Management System, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to technology-driven trade reforms. This development follows a strategic engagement between the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, where both institutions reaffirmed their commitment to seamless trade processes, enhanced revenue collection, and improved financial integration . Key Features of the B’Odogwu System: Modernized Customs Operations: Designed to replace the Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II), B’Odogwu aims to enhance…

In a spectacular display of sportsmanship and athleticism, First Lady Remi Tinubu officially declared the 2025 Women's African Club Volleyball Championship open at the Moshood Abiola International Stadium in Abuja. This historic event marks the first time Nigeria has hosted the prestigious tournament, bringing together elite clubs from across the continent. A Showcase of Excellence The championship, which commenced on April 3, 2025, promises to be an exciting competition, with 16 top-notch clubs vying for the top spot. The Nigeria Customs Service Volleyball Team set the tone for the tournament with a thrilling straight-set victory over their Cameroonian counterparts, winning…

The Maritime Reporters' Association of Nigeria (MARAN) is set to host a pivotal event, "Navigating the Nigeria-Peoples Republic Of China Currency Swap: Opportunities and Challenges for Import, Export and Maritime Business," on April 15, 2025, at the Rockview Hotel in Lagos. This landmark event aims to bring together critical stakeholders in the import and export business, policy-makers, and government agencies to examine the Nigeria-China Currency Swap deal and its implications on the maritime industry. The currency swap agreement, worth 15 billion Yuan ($2 billion), enables the direct exchange of the Chinese Yuan and the Nigerian naira, bypassing the US dollar.…

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service has expressed his deepest gratitude to all Muslim members for the joyous celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, a significant Islamic holiday marking the end of Ramadan. In a heartfelt message, the Customs General acknowledged the vital role Muslim personnel play in the service, praising their dedication, hard work, and commitment to the Nigeria Customs Service's goals and objectives. He emphasized the importance of unity, tolerance, and mutual respect among people of different faiths and backgrounds. The Customs General's appreciation is a testament to the strong bond between the Nigeria Customs Service and its Muslim personnel.…

The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service has expressed his deepest gratitude to all Muslim members for their joyous celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, a significant Islamic holiday marking the end of Ramadan. In a heartfelt message, the Customs General acknowledged the vital role Muslim personnel play in the service, praising their dedication, hard work, and commitment to the Nigeria Customs Service's goals and objectives. He emphasized the importance of unity, tolerance, and mutual respect among people of different faiths and backgrounds. The Customs General's appreciation is a testament to the strong bond between the Nigeria Customs Service and its Muslim personnel.…

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) is thrilled to join the Muslim community in Nigeria and across the maritime sector in celebrating Eid-Al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. In a heartfelt message, the Director General of NIMASA expressed his warmest greetings to all Muslims, acknowledging the significance of this joyous occasion. "This is a time to embrace the values of compassion, unity, and generosity, which are essential in fostering harmony and progress in our society," he stated. The DG reaffirmed NIMASA's commitment to ensuring a safer, more prosperous, and globally competitive maritime sector, reflecting the resilience and dedication…