Esther Komolafe

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…

The Women's International Shipping and Trading Association (WISTA) Nigeria has commended the significant contributions of women to the creative industries in Nigeria, describing their contributions as invaluable. This commendation was made by the President of WISTA Nigeria, Dr. Odunayo Ani, at the recent SynergyCon 1.0 conference in Lagos. Dr. Ani emphasized the importance of creativity and intellectual property in driving Nigeria's economic progress. She encouraged creatives to safeguard their intellectual property, unlocking its full potential to generate value and impact. SynergyCon 1.0 aims to equip women with the tools, strategies, and networks needed to thrive in an ever-evolving business landscape.…

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) is reviewing 16 proposals for amendments to the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC), 2006, also known as the "Seafarers' Bill of Rights". This development aims to enhance the welfare of Nigerian seafarers and align the country's maritime regulatory framework with international best practices. The proposals were discussed at a three-day Tripartite Technical session, which brought together stakeholders from government, employers, unions, and international maritime partners. NIMASA's Director General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, emphasized the importance of collaboration among sectors to achieve progressive amendments that promote seafarers' welfare, fair business environments, and Nigeria's position as…

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified its efforts to curb the smuggling of Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS), with significant seizures made under Operation Whirlwind in Kwara State. Between January 14 and February 11, 2025, NCS operatives intercepted over 53,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), valued at ₦53 million . Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, described fuel smuggling as a "direct threat to Nigeria's economic stability and national security." He noted that despite the removal of fuel subsidies, smugglers continue to exploit price disparities between Nigeria and neighboring countries, undermining government policies and affecting ordinary Nigerians . The NCS…