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The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Apapa Command has strengthened its anti-corruption alliance with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) Lagos, seeking deeper intelligence sharing and compliance drive. This collaboration aims to boost national revenue and reduce graft vulnerabilities within the port ecosystem. Highlights: Intelligence Sharing: ICPC and NCS will share intelligence to combat corruption and improve revenue collection. Preventive Measures: Both agencies will work together to identify and address systemic loopholes that pose corruption risks. Compliance Drive: NCS and ICPC will collaborate on compliance initiatives, including training and seminars for officers. Transparency: NCS Apapa Command will…

In a groundbreaking achievement, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intercepted a staggering 1,000 kilograms of cocaine worth N29.4 billion at the Port and Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) in Lagos. This marks the first time PTML has made such a significant drug seizure, and it's considered one of the most mysterious cocaine interceptions in NCS history . The discovery was made on October 7, 2025, during a routine disinfection of 39 empty containers brought in for export loading. Comptroller Joe Anani, Customs Area Controller of PTML Command, revealed that the container, numbered GCNU1332851, was flagged by PTML terminal operators due…

Nigeria's Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has commended dockworkers for their invaluable contributions to the country's maritime industry. Speaking at the 2025 Day of the Dockworker celebration in Lagos, Oyetola emphasized the crucial role dockworkers play in driving Nigeria's blue economy and ensuring national growth . The event, themed "Safe Port, Safe Ship," highlighted government initiatives to improve safety standards and working conditions for dockworkers. Oyetola, represented by NIMASA Director-General Dr. Dayo Mobereola, announced the Federal Government's commitment to providing modern protective equipment, enhancing safety training, and improving emergency response capabilities. MWUN President-General, Comrade Francis Bunu, praised…

The Customs Area Controller ,( CAC) Comptroller Oshoba of the Port, Apapa Lagos, has revealed that the port has recorded significant growth in trade and revenue, attributing the success to innovative reforms implemented by the Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs Service , Dr Bashir Adewale Adeniyi . In an exclusive interview with a group of Maritime Journalists recently in his office at Apapa in Lagos. Comptroller Oshoba highlighted the impact of the Advanced Ruling System, Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and non-intrusive inspection (scanning) on trade facilitation and revenue collection. Key Highlights: Advanced Ruling System: Enables importers to obtain binding…

A major breakthrough has been achieved in Nigeria's maritime sector, with the Maritime Workers' Union of Nigeria (MWUN) and Melsmore Marine Limited signing a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). This historic agreement recognizes the unionization of workers at Melsmore Marine Limited, marking a new era of cooperation between management and labour . MWUN President-General, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, praised NIMASA Director-General, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, for his pivotal role in facilitating the agreement. Dr. Mobereola's proactive and balanced mediation ensured a peaceful and mutually beneficial outcome. Key Highlights of the Agreement: Improved Working Conditions: Enhanced working conditions and remuneration for unionized staff…

The Customs Officers' Wives Association (COWA) has officially launched its Green Borders Sustainability Initiative (CGBSI) with a flag-off ceremony at Seme Border Town, Lagos State. The event marked the beginning of a nationwide environmental sustainability campaign aimed at greening communities and promoting sustainable development. Speaking at the ceremony, COWA National President, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, described the initiative as "a movement of hope, responsibility, and transformation that connects our homes, our borders, and our planet." She highlighted the success of the recent COWA Green Borders and Sustainability Summit, which laid the foundation for the Green Borders campaign and unveiled the COWA…

The Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA) has launched a new initiative to equip officers' wives and widows with vocational skills, business start-up kits, and financial grants, promoting self-reliance and household stability. At a graduation and presentation ceremony, over 36 beneficiaries from the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A received tools for small-scale enterprises, including sewing machines, catering and hairdressing equipment, and business grants. Key Highlights: Vocational Training: Beneficiaries received training in various skills, including ICT, tailoring, hairdressing, and makeup. Business Grants: Each widow received a N100,000 business grant to support their livelihoods. Empowerment: COWA aims to enhance financial independence for…

The maritime industry is a vital component of Nigeria's economy, and it has consistently contributed to the country's revenue despite various economic challenges. However, the sector still faces significant challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, lack of investment, and a shortage of skilled personnel. In his welcome address on its 30th anniversary celebration,  Wale Oni the publisher of the  Newspaper Ports News, being the first maritime Newspaper has highlighted the importance of the maritime industry to Nigeria's economy and lamented the fact that the country has not been able to maximize its potential in the sector. He praised the efforts of the…

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) recently hosted the 4th Nigerian Admiralty Law Colloquium in Lagos, themed "Charting the Course for Nigeria's Blue Economy." The event brought together stakeholders to discuss the country's maritime growth and development. Key Highlights: Blue Economy Potential: Nigeria's blue economy is a national imperative, with the judiciary playing a critical role in driving growth. Judicial Importance: Timely and informed adjudication is vital for sustainable development and attracting foreign direct investment. Specialized Knowledge: Admiralty law requires specialized understanding, and judges must be equipped to navigate complex legal issues. Efficient Dispute Resolution: Efficient dispute resolution…

Princess Chi Ezeh, Vice Chairman, Seaports of NAGAFF, has praised the B’Odogwu platform for its potential to transform Nigeria’s inefficient port system. Speaking at a seminar in Lagos, she highlighted the platform's benefits, including: Reduced cargo clearance times: From weeks to mere hours Real-time cargo tracking: Enhancing transparency and security Increased government revenue: Apapa Customs Command collected over ₦161 billion in just three weeks using B’Odogwu Ezeh emphasized the importance of digital adoption, transparency, security, and gender inclusivity in the maritime sector. She also celebrated the growing role of women in the industry, citing their resilience, innovation, and fresh perspectives.…