Revenue Generation: Seme Border Command Exceeds 2023 Target In Less Than 9 Months As Nnadi Hands Over To Bomodi

September 19, 2023

The outgoing Area controller of Seme Border Customs Command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi has disclosed on Monday 18th September that the Command under his watch exceeded the revenue target for the 2023 with over N122 million in less than 9months into the year.

Comptroller Nnadi who had officially taken over as the area controller of Tincan island port command made this known while handling the mantle of leadership of Seme Border Command to Comptroller Timi Bomodi who is succeeding him.

Comptroller Nnadi disclosed that the Command has collected N2,088,578,048.03k in less than 9 months, surpassing its N1,966,000,000 target for the year 2923.

According to Nnadi “As at Friday the 15th of September, 2023 the Command has collected N2,088,578,048.03 only. By this, the implication is that we have surpass our N1,966,000,000 allotted target for the year 2023 by N122,578,048.03 only, which represent 6.23% increase. In the corresponding period under review for year 2022, the revenue was N885,543,098.11 only,”

In its anti-smuggling operations, Nnadi hinted that there were headline seizures such as; fake six million US dollars equivalent to N2.7billion; 9500 units of 50kg bags of rice equivalent to sixteen (16) trailer loads of foreign parboiled rice with Duty Paid Value of N312,242,064.93k; 15,094 x 30 liters Jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit equivalent to 455,850 liters or 15 petroleum tankers with a Duty Paid Value of N738,276,461k; 15,389 units of General Merchandise Goods.

Hard Drugs and Narcotics seizures included; 594 parcels of Cannabis Sativa; 4,900 Tablets 225mg of Tramadol Tamol-X; 3,600 Tablets 225mg Tramadol Royal 225; 157 Tablets of Heineken Ecstacy; and 864 Packs of Cigarette.

While soliciting for same support accorded him for his successor, he appreciated.the CGC and his management team, officers of the command,, host community, stakeholders and other government agencies for the robust collaborations which led to the notable accomplishments at the border command

In his speech after taking over as the new Area Controller of Seme Border Command, Comptroller Timi Bomodi expressed gratitude to the out going controller for his achievement in exceeding the revenue target for the year and recording of the notable seizures.

He hinted that facilitation of legitimate trade will be the goal of the Command under his leadership which will naturally enhance revenue generation and curb smuggling.

Bomodi states that he would run an all-inclusive administration and be open to views and contributions from all stakeholders, adding that border community dwellers are critical stakeholders from the obas, chiefs and ordinary citizens and will ensure that the needs of everyone be met

He hinted further that both countries have committed to attaining seamless operations by aligning fiscal policies and are contemplating creating windows for respective Customs operatives to extend their activities to each other’s ports and borders.

Comptroller Bomodi however applaud the outgoing Controller, Dera Nnadi for the Command’s revenue feat, while promising to improve on it he encouraged him to continue his great results as he takes over at Tincan Island Port Command.

Ogun 1 Customs Command Records 91% Revenue Target In Less Than 9 Months

Lola Adesokan

September 19, 2023

... Bello Shuaibu Assumes Office As New CAC

The outgoing Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service, Idiroko border, Comptroller Bamidele has disclosed that it recorded the sum of N127,122,058 in revenue generation out of the N136,532,168.22 revenue target for the year 2023 making it about 91% of the target with 3 months and some days to the end of the year.

Comptroller Bamidele made this known during his handling over ceremony to the incoming Area Controller of the command, DC Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu on Monday 18th September 2023 at the Idiroko border command.

Comptroller Bamidele disclosed that for his duration of seventeen months, the command recorded a total of N225, 009,835.50 in revenue collection.

In his words“From the inception of my tenure in office (9th of February, 2022) to date, which is about 17 months, the Command have recorded some laudable achievements. For emphasis, during this period, the Command generated a total sum of N225, 009,835.50 as revenue.

“Within the 17 months in office, the Command also recorded about 1,479 seizures comprising 1,245 rounds of live Ammunition, 72,989 bugs of foreign parboiled Rice of 50kg each (which is an equivalent of 122 Trucks load), 907 bales & 236 sacks of Secondhand clothing, 394 sacks & 2,678 wraps of Cannabis Sativa and 655,400 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (an equivalent of 20 Tankers load), among others, with Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N6, 604,107,655.92.”

Makinde however call on officers of the command and stakeholders to give their double support and cooperation to the incoming administration in other to sustain the performance tempo of the Command.

In his speech during the ceremony, the new Area Controller of the Command, DC. Ahmadu Bello Shuaibu disclosed that the daily business of the command under his watch shall be tailored wholly towards achieving national security.

Shuaibu states that customs community relations will also occupy a cardinal position noting that there is no alternative to peaceful co-existence as far as customs mandate and other border sister security jobs are concerned.

He disclosed that his posting to the Command carries the demand for higher responsibility, and hence he expects nothing less than professionalism from all officers and men of the command, onward from where his predeccessor stopped.

He urged every stakeholders and players to stick with the rules of engagement, and said smugglers and unscrupulous traders have no space in the command under his watch.

Thanking the CGC and his management team for his appointment, he appreciates his predecessor for providing him a warm welcome and stakeholders in the area command, particularly those that found the time to grace the occasion, he said,

“My Superior and good brother, Comptroller Makinde fii uni pse(+) Distinguished Heads of Agencies Our Security Counterpart from Igolo, Republic of Benin Secretary General Inter-Border Forums Members of the Command’s Management Team, it is my pleasure to be in your midst this morning, for this auspicious occasion of handing over and taking over ceremony, sequel to my posting to Ogun 1 Arra Command by the Ag Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR dsm finipr psc(+).

“The posting is seen as a call to higher responsibility and I thank the Ag CGC for finding me worthy for the deployment. I shall discharge my duties diligently and uphold the policy thrust of the CGC. I will like to appreciate my boss and every one of you here present for the warm reception accorded to me.”

“Permit me to state that, I am highly impressed with the presence of some of our critical stakeholders within and outside the country, indeed, this is an evidence of cordial working relationship. Let me congratulate my boss and good brother, Comptroller Bamidele Makinde mini psc(+) on his successful tour of duty with laudable achievements.

“I am not surprise by his impeccable performance considering the fact that, you are an articulate and result oriented leader. Sir, I assure you of continuity and sustaining your performance tempo. Thank you for garnering support for my administration and wishing me well. I wish you success in your new endeavour.

“Going forward, I will like to state that, I am a team player and believe so much in a team work. I urge all Officers and Men of Ogun 1 Area Command to work as a team adhere strictly to the rules of engagement and discharge their duty in conformity with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Act 2023.

“However, let me sound a note of warning to smugglers and their accomplice, their nefarious activities will not be condoned, and anyone caught in the act, shall be brought to book.

“May I use this medium to assure the business community and our critical stakeholders, that the new administration will operate an open door policy, and strengthen the existing relationship with the Command”, Shuaibu quipped.

Gyado To Operate With SWOT As She Takes Over From Bomodi

Lola Adesokan

September 16, 2023

The former Area Controller of Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Command of Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Timi Bomodi who has been recently redeployed to take over the Seme boarder Command gallantly hands over the leadership of KLT command to Comptroller Tilley Gyado , MM.

The change of baton ceremony which took place on Friday at the Command conference room was witness by various stakeholders operating in the command jurisdiction, officers and men of the Command alongside other sister agencies.

In his handling over speech, Comptroller Bomodi appreciate the officers of the Command for their expertise in the area of discharge of their duties which according to him made his job as Area Controller easier.

He disclosed that the revenue target given to the Command for the year 2023 is sixty two billion, two hundred million naira (#62,200,000,000.00) only and the Command has so far recorded the sum of thirty six billion, nine hundred and thirty million naira (#36,930,000,000.00) only which represents about 59.37% of the total expected revenue for the year under review.

Meanwhile, the above figure represents about 22.44% increase in collected revenue of thirty billion, one hundred and sixty million naira (#30,160,000,000.00) only over the corresponding period of 2022

He disclosed that the average time taken to clear goods from the Command is 48 hours which is in line with the trade facilitation policy of the Service, adding that stakeholders engagement has been very rewarding and will also benefit the incoming controller.

Comptroller Bomodi ascertain that with the extremely disciplined and professional officers operating at the Command, the target for the year will be met. Although he decried the low exploitation of the potentials of the Command as he said that less than 10% of the facilities of the Command is put to use.

He however urged the officers of the Command and stakeholders to grant the incoming Controller the same commitment and cooperation he enjoyed with them.

Speaking after her taking over as the new Customs Area Controller of the Command, Command, Tillygyado, MM (Mrs.) said that she is going to deploy emotional intelligence in the discharge of her duty as she had served previously as the deputy Controller, revenue at the Command.

Tilley Gyado disclosed that she will use the SWOT (strength, weakness, opportunity, threat) analysis in dealing with all situations at the Command and expresses the intention to have an open door policy towards all.

She however appreciate the outgoing Controller and thanked all officers and other stakeholders for taking out time to honour her with their presence at the change of baton ceremony.

RE: THE SLEEPING WATERWAYS AUTHORITY: AN X-RAY OF NIWA UNDER MOGHALU

Lola Adesokan

September 15, 2023

The attention of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) has been drawn to an online publication under the above subject matter by Business and Maritime West Africa Editorial.

To begin with, it is not in our tradition to join issues with people on frivolous allegations, but we are compelled in order to set the records straight for the General Public to know the four years achievements of NIWA under Chief Dr. George Moghalu as the MD/CEO with facts and figures which are verifiable.

However, it is unfortunate to state that the writer did not make a proper research or he deliberately ignored the Landmark achievements under Chief Dr. George Moghalu as the MD/CEO of NIWA despite robust media publicity of activities NIWA recorded from 2019 to date.

This made his write-up baseless, untrue and unfounded. A clear case of sponsored blackmail.

It is no longer a news that Dr. George Moghalu is a seasoned politician a technocrat and also a very successful private business man who aspired to the Governorship position in Anambra State before and after his emergence as MD/CEO of the Authority.

That has not hindered his official performance in NIWA, rather he has infused his experience, culture and innovation of the private sector, leading to the success recorded in NIWA so far.

The successful concessioning of Onitsha River port; Onitsha River port which was built in the Second Republic during the Administration of Alh. Shehu Shagari and laid dormant until during the Jonathan’s Administration when it was rehabilitated and commissioned without putting it into use. But with the efforts of George Moghalu as MD of NIWA, he was able to break the Jinx and successfully completed the concessionning process and handed over the port to Elysium Consortium Limited which is now in operation and yielding economic value to the nation.

It is also on record that NIWA recorded the highest revenue generation under Moghalu’s Administration since its inception from above 1Billion Naira to over 11 Billion Naira. Thus making the Authority self-reliant on personnel cost and pulling out from the IPPIS.

A very important high point of Moghalu’s Administration has been the resuscitation of projects that had been in comatose for decades. This includes Lokoja River port, Oguta River port, Construction of Jetties and refurbishing of old ones for the benefit of Nigerians.

On the issue of boat mishaps, it’s unfortunate that the loss of human lives is labelled as a willful act of the Authority by the writer. NIWA regrets the loss of any life or property on our Waterways. And since Moghalu’s Administration, relentless efforts have been made at sensitizing boat operators and passengers, Training of boat operators in Port-Harcourt, Warri and Lagos, and the program is continuing in other states and enforcement of all safety protocols.

Free distribution of Life Jackets to boat Associations, recruiting water marshals to enforce our safety guidelines, search and rescue stations in Eleven (11) locations and the procurement of patrol boats.

For avoidance of doubts and in order to enlighten the General Public on the Landmark achievements recorded under George Moghalu, it is necessary for the Authority to mention amongst the following:

FIRST YEAR
River training works from Baro to Warri, Construction of Jetty at Odekpe, Ogbaru LGA Anambra State, Construction of Jetty 2 at Yenagoa , Bayelsa State, Construction of 30 Man House Boat, HB Kpakiama with water sewage treatment plant, Rehabilitation of Yauri-Yelwa Area Office, Provision of floating Jetties at Lekki phase 1 and Oworonshoki in Lagos, Procurement of 3T, 5T and 25T forklifts at Baro Port, Procurement of one no (1) Mobile Boom crane 80 Ton at Baro Port, Increased Advocacy for compliance with Inland code, prompt Prosecution of defaulters of the Inland Waters Transportation Code with a view to ensuring deterrent to others, Enforcement of Covid-19 Protocols on all boat operators and passengers on Inland Waterways to ensure safety and health of all waterways users, Clearing debris and water hyacinth from the nation’s waterways in fulfilment of its environmental responsibilities, Reconstruction of collapsed fence at Onitsha NIWA Area Office, Commissioned a 36 seater ferry boat at Yelwa Yauri, Kebbi State, (NIWA Procured the ferry boat on behalf of Distinguished Senator Bala Ibn NaAllah).

The signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Union of petroleum and Natural Gas (NUPENG).

During Covid-1 the MD introduced the reduction of ferry fares as part of its contribution to revamping the economy following the crippling effects of the pandemic, Management ensured the strict enforcement of Covid-19 protocols and guidelines as it affects the waterways in line with the recommendations of NCDC, PTF and global best practices.

To cushion the devastating effect of Covid-19 on staff, the MD/CEO directed the distribution of palliatives to staff.

The MD engaged with stake holders, investors and potential investors on the various opportunities inherent in the nation’s waterways system, Procurement and distribution of life jackets to riverine communities, Enlightenment of riverine communities on waterways safety, Enforcement of operating permits and licenses, Removal of rickety water crafts from the waterways, Engagement with the Navy, Nigerian Police, and other relevant security authorities. NIWA formed partnership with them to safeguard the waterways.

Also, the Authority organized training programmes for boat drivers in Warri Delta State.

SECOND YEAR
Gabion type shore protection works at the bank of River Niger at Ose, Ogbe-ljoh, Onitsha, Anambra State, Construction of 2Nos 500 ton barges, Construction of 1No Jet pontoon, Construction of 1No flat bottom Tugboat, Construction of 1No 30-man House Boat, Construction of 2Nos patrol boats, Construction of 1No pilot Boat (Keel bottom), Construction of 1No water Ambulance to enhance safety, search and rescue on our Waterways, Construction of 7 more water Ambulances, Rehabilitation of Port Harcourt and Warri Area offices workshops, Regular clearing of water Hyacinth, Debris and obstructions on Inland Waterways, Rehabilitation of 13-years-Abandoned defective water weed harvester (Yauri Area office), Construction of 1no Fire-Fighting vessel.

Construction of berthing facility at Lokoja dockyard for NIWA vessel’s mooring, Resumption of work on Lokoja River Port, Procurement of patrol Boats, Rehabilitation of the Warri Dockyard Harbour, Mapping/charting of right-of-way and navigational channels River Niger (Asaba-Onitsha Axis), Commencement of online Boat registration, Training of 400 youths on the safe handling of small crafts for ferry operations, Training and certification of passenger boat drivers and captains in Warri, Port Harcourt and Yenagoa Area offices.

Training of 20 numbers NIWA Engineers and Technicians with Yamaha Motors of Japan in the repair/ maintenance of Yamaha outboard engines, Training of Port Department Staff on Port/Cargo handling and operations, Training of Staff on Electronic Registration and Information system for inland craft; Construction of shore protection work at Ose-Ogbe-ljoh, Onitsha.

THIRD YEAR
Construction of NIWA Research & Development Centre at NIWA Headquarters, Lokoja, Extension of shore wall protection Works at NIWA Lagos Area Office, Construction of ferry Ramp at Jen, Taraba State, Fencing of Oguta River Port, Oguta, Imo State, Construction of Warehouse at Odekpe Jetty, Anambra State, Construction of Jetty at Illah, Delta State, Construction of Ferry Ramp at Nzam, Anambra State, Shore protection Works at Jamata Inland River Port, Design of Makurdi River Port Quay Facility, Construction of Groyne in proximity of Ajaokuta Wharf and Bridge, Provision of Terminal Facilities at lwopin Jetty, Ogun State, Rehabilitation of Jetty at Umaisha, Nassarawa State, Maintenance Dredging at NIWA Jetty Warri, Delta State, Rehabilitation/Reconstruction of NIWA Warri Wooden Jetty, Installation of navigational aids on Lagos Waterways, General Staff Training, Repairs and rebranding of the Authority’s official vehicles, Procurement of water Ambulance and deployed to Lagos, Donation of a ferry boat to Bagwai-badau community, Kano State.

Sensitization awareness campaign on safety on our waterways nationwide, Free distribution of life Jackets to boat operators associations in 22 Area offices of NIWA across the Nation to curtail the incessant Boat mishaps.

Management retreat on five years development plan Agenda for NIWA, Regular clearing of water hyacinth, debris obstruction on Inland Waterways, Training of corporate Affairs staff to meet up with world public relations (PR) standard practice,
The official Flag-off of the survey and charting of the Lower River Niger and Benue in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy Hydrographic office, inspired by the Sea-Link implementation committee and funded by the NEXIM Bank.

Commissioning of NIWA jetty at Tin-can island Lagos, by Senator Dr. Olorunnimbe Adeleke Mammora the then Hon. Minister of State for Health, Building of new office complex at NIWA Headquarters Lokoja, Inauguration of Taskforce to patrol and enforce waterways protocols in the Lagos waterways. Which is being replicated in all Area Offices.

Construction and upgrading of new staff clinic at NIWA headquarters to NHIA standard, Construction and upgrading of staff offices at the headquarters, Procurement of Cargo Handling Equipment for Lokoja River Port (Reach Staker), Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) of Lokoja River Port, Post Impact Assessment (PIA) of Baro River Port, Port Facility Security Assessment (PFSA) For Marina CMS Jetty, Flour Mill Jetty, Tincan Jetty, Warri Dockyard, Calabar Jetty, Port Harcourt Jetty.

(ISPS Code Implementation), Training of Port and Environmental Services Staff on Port and Terminal Operations in Lagos, Training of Ports and Environmental Staff on Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO), ISPS Code Training, At Lagos, Upgrade Of Local Area Network (Wired & Wireless) In NIWA Headquarters, Procurement of Inverter System for alternative Power source for Finance Department and Corporate Affairs Sub Network in Headquarters, Procurement of Network Device for Computer Room, Provision of Internet bandwidth subscription in NIWA headquarters, Consultancy services for the digitalization of NIWA headquarters, Acquisition of computer gadgets and general upgrade of the authority’s computer room, Capacity building on Performance Management System (PMS) in Uyo, on monitoring/evaluation exercise, Acquisition and installation of tools for E-Monitoring and Evaluation (data capturing, and analysis and visualization), Acquisition and installation of tools for E-Monitoring and Evaluation (alternate power source and related office equipment), Procurement of consumables and repairs of photocopiers / printers, Provision of River Guide (PILOTAGE) Services, Procurement of Fire Fighting Vessels, Rehabilitation of workshop Machineries and purchase of Machine tools and accessories at Port Harcourt, Procurement of Water Ambulances for Lagos, Yauri, Port Harcourt, Warri, Onitsha, Calabar and Yenagoa, Removal of wrecks at NUN River, Bayelsa state, Construction of 26-35 capacity passenger ferry, Construction of 1 No. Boat for Monitoring of Dredging and other Activities on Inland Waterways, Construction of two (2) Nos survey boats for survey activities.

The procurement and installation of Equipment/Devices for Electronic Register and Information System, Procurement of S & R Gadgets, PPEs, SSB radios and VHF.

FOURTH YEAR
Construction of Jetty at Kpakiama, Delta State, Extension of shore protection works at Jamata Inland River port, Kogi state, Construction of concrete hardstands at Iwopin Jetty, Ogun State, Construction of floating Jetty at NIWA Lagos Area office, Construction of a 2 storey building at NIWA headquarters Lokoja, Construction of detention facility at NIWA headquarters Lokoja, Construction of NIWA staff canteen at headquarters Lokoja, Upgrading of NIWA headquarters clinic to NHIA standard, Building of the Authority’s second Tugboat, Installation of solar-powered inverters in all the 23 Area offices and headquarters, Installation of solar-powered street lights in all the 23 Area offices and headquarters, Construction of passengers boat for use in the North, Wrecks removal within the Inland Waterways.

With the above submission, we hope the writer and the General Public are more enlightened and informed with the achievements of the George Moghalu Administration from 2019 to date.

Joy Monije Applaud Comptroller Oloyede Outstanding IT Performance

Lola Adesokan

September 15, 2023

The outgoing Controller of Tincan Island port Command of Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Adekunle Oloyede Steven has been applaud for his intellectually sound IT expertise.

Speaking on his outstanding performance while at the Tincan Island Command, the Public Relations Officer, Association of Nigeria License Customs Agent ( ANLCA), Onome Joy Monije described Comptroller Adekunle as an intellectual sound IT specialist per excellent who had come out openly to demonstrate the easiest way of doing business seamlessly as pilot of paperless vin valuation of code 846 procedure of non-standard vin.

During the handling over ceremony of the IT guru, the Chairman of the Association Chapter, Ojo Peter Akintoye and his Executive with the mandates of the entire members of the Chapter presented a parting gift to the immediate past Controller of the Command, Adekunle Oloyede while handing over ceremony to the newly posted Controller Dera Nnadi

Dr. Moghalu Mourns Victims Of Niger, Adamawa State Boat Mishap

Lola Adesokan

September 13, 2023

Managing Director of National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) Chief Dr. George Moghalu has expressed immense grief on the boat mishap that happened at Gurin River, a surburb of Fufore Local Government Area, Adamawa State, as well as at a river in Gbajibo, Mokwa of Niger state.

Dr. Moghalu who extended his heartfelt sympathies to the families of the dead and the injured, stated that the incident is more disheartening as some of the victims on board were reportedly heading for farming activities.

Commending the life-saving work of the first responders, local divers and police marine at the scene of the incident, Dr. George Moghalu wished the wounded a speedy recovery and success on the search and rescue of some missing passengers on the capsized boat.

The NIWA boss reiterated call on transporters to ensure strict adherence to safety regulations on the nation’s waterways, emphasizing on the need for the people in the riverine communities traveling by boats and canoes to use live jackets and avoid overcrowded boats.

Dr. Moghalu prays that the Almighty God will comfort the grieving relations at this very difficult time.

Comptroller Jaiyeoba Takes Over As Apapa Customs Area Controller.

Lola Adesokan

September 12, 2023

…As Command Records N676b Revenue Between January Through August 2023.

Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba has assumes office as the new Area Controller of the nations premier port, Apapa Area Customs Command.

Comptroller Jaiyeoba who took over officially on Tuesday from his predecessor , ACG Auwal Baba Mohammed hinted that he is aware that his assignment is not easy but expressed high optimism to surpass targets and beat expectations

He disclosed that he came ready for the uneasy task of collecting all revenue due to the Federal government and promote a culture of compliance at the Apapa port

Jaiyeoba who was, until recently Controller in charge of Oyo/Osun Command, solicited the cooperation of officers and port users to sustain the impressive revenue records achieved by ACG Mohammed while he served as Area Controller before his recent elevation to Assistant Comptroller General Technical Services at Customs Headquarters.

Comptroller Jaiyeoba made known to officers and port users that he is open to suggestions and support through an open door policy that will foster trade, prevent revenue leakages and suppress smuggling.

–
While handling over to Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba, the newly appointed ACG who was the former Controller of Apapa Customs Command, Auwal Baba Mohammed disclosed that the Command collected over N676billion as revenue between January and August 2023.

ACG Auwal urged officers of the command to rededicate themselves to service and surpass government expectations of them for revenue collection, prevention of smuggling and trade facilitation, he applauded them for the feats they achieved together when he was the Area Controller.

He disclosed that teamwork, diligence and zero compromise assisted in several revenue and other operational successes the command recorded under his watch .

He added that the Command collected it’s highest monthly and daily revenue in August 2023. According to him a total of N136b was collected as monthly revenue in August while N10billion was collected on 3rd of August 2023 being the highest monthly and daily collections in the history of the Nigeria Customs Service.

Meanwhile, Comptroller Jaiyeoba appreciated the Acting Controller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi for the task with an assurance to build on the achievements of his predecessor in the area of revenue, trade facilitation, anti smuggling and promotion of customs community relations.

FG Should Emulate Benin Republic Port Community System Model – Expert

Lola Adesokan

September 12, 2023

Some experts in the Nigerian maritime sector have advised the Federal Government to copy the Webb Port model of port community system being used in neighbouring Benin Republic.

Rising from the 2023 JournalNG Port Industry Town Hall meeting in Lagos, they agreed that the Webb Port model has proven to enhance national security, improve revenue collection and promote trade at the seaport, airport and land borders.

Giving an insight into the workings of the Webb Ports in Benin, Lanre Balogun, A manager in charge of installation at Webb Fontaine Nigeria Limited said the Port Community System has achieved seamless interactions between systems used by the port authority, customs and terminal operators from data exchange and logistics through billing and payment.

Balogun said all port processes under the Webb Ports regime enjoy speedy processing from electronic manifest declaration through electronic payment of all duties and fees; space booking for delivery and loading preparation; e- release for cargo exit authorisation and cargo movements management and follow up

Balogun said his company has trained 8,137 persons in Benin from 2018 to 2022 and has 6,624 users of the system that has helped Benin Republic Customs achieve 97 percent increase in customs revenue collection between 2016 and 2022.

He added that the PCS is active at Cotonou Port, Cotonou Airport and six land borders of Hilla Condji, Krake Plage, Malanville, Parakou, Iloua and Tchicandou.

He said the contract entered with Benin Ministry of Finance has contributed immensely to the port efficiency in the country easing trade. He listed trucking companies, banks, stevedores, customs brokers, shipping agents,inspection authorities and others are maximizing the benefits of the Webb Ports system

The Customs Area Controller of Kirikiri Lighter Terminal, Comptroller Timinadi Bomodi warned that the nation’s blue economy won’t attract FDIs without adequate data to guide investors.

Bomodi said that automated processes and technology could be utilized in addressing the dire need for relevant data on various aspects of the sector which makes it easier for investors to understand the terrain.

He identified fishing trawler operations in the country as a sub-sector that requires optimum regulation and adequate data to guide the regulators, operators, government policies and spur Foreign Direct Investments

While stating that the Customs online portal, Nigeria Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS) II, allows for integration of other agencies, he maintained that blue economy should be explored as an ecosystem that leverages technology.

“Also speaking at the meeting, Chief Abdullai Tony Dania, a Maritime Lawyer, called for due diligence and enactment of laws that will strengthen integration among government agencies.

According to Dania, there is a need for mandatory inter agencies and inter-Ministerial collaboration, supported by statute to give impetus to the required technologically backed integration.

He stated the Nigerian Customs and Excise in under the ministry of Finance, but her operations are more under the Marine & the blue economy. He talked about the need to regulate the existing maritime agencies ”

Meanwhile, the Founder of National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF) and Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Boniface Aniebonam observed that automated processes of port agencies are fragmented.

Aniebonam, who was represented by the Registrar, NAGAFF Academy, Mr. Francis Omotosho observed that even the popular Customs Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Valuation system and NPA’s electronic truck call-up system are fraught with the challenge of human interference.

The veteran freight forwarder suggested that technology could be utilized to alert Customs of overtime cargoes after 28 days at ports, thereby positioning the Service to expedite the evacuation of such cargoes.

On his part, the Chairman of the Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO), Chief Remi Ogungbemi advised that already established technological processes should be improved upon.

He also lamented that truck owners are equally being vilified when their trucks are seized along with consignments intercepted by Customs and other security agencies.

Earlier, the Publisher of JournalNG and convener of the conference, Mr. Ismail Aniemu observed that technology has become part of daily life and automation has also become the norm.

The magazine publisher said Nigeria Customs Service is the best suitable to be the lead agency for a national single window project and most qualified to handle it with it’s more robust NICIS II platform

While commending the Webb Port system as most suitable tested and trusted platform observed to be sustainable in Benin in the last six years, Aniemu said the Nigeria Customs strong presence at the seaports, airports and border stations further attests to it’s suitability to undertake the task

Seme Customs Records 97.2% Revenue Target For Year 2023 In 8 Months

Lola Adesokan

September 9, 2023

Seme Border Command of Nigeria Customs Service revealed that the Commands revenue profile witnessed a tremendous increase in its 2023 revenue generation for the first 8 months of the year

The command collected the sum of N1,904,459,390.77 revenue between January 23 and September 8, 2023, which represents 97.2% of N1,960,000,000 allotted target for the year which shows an increase of 51.98% from the N885,543,098.11 made in the corresponding period for 2022.

Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Dera Nnadi made this known to the press during a media briefing at the command on Friday.

Comptroller Dera hinted that the revenue target for the Command for the year 2023 is One Billion Nine Hundred and Sixty Million Naira Only. As at the time of the briefing on Friday morning the 8th of September, 2023 the Command has collected One Billion Nine Hundred and Four Million, Four Hundred and Fifty-Nine Thousand, Three Hundred and Ninety Naira, Seventy Seven Kobo (N1,904,459, 390.77) only which stood at 97.2% of N1,960,000,000 allotted target for the year 2023.

He disclosed that the corresponding period under review for year 2022, the revenue was Eight Hundred and Eighty Five Million, Five Hundred and Forty Three Thousand, Ninety Eight Naira Eleven Kobo (N885,543,098.11), showing an increase of N1, 018,916, 292. 33 (51.98%).

He added that the outstanding revenue increase was a result of painstaking efforts made by the leadership of the Command in partnership with stakeholders to ensure compliance with the command revenue generation agenda.

Speaking on the command anti-smuggling operation, Comptroller.Dera said ” You are already conversant with our past headline seizures (fake six million US dollars equivalent to two billion seven hundred million (N2.7 B) Naira). This is in addition to other notable seizures recorded between January and August 2023 and listed as; Six Thousand Five Hundred and Sixty Nine (6500) 50kg bags of rice equivalent to sixteen (16) trailer loads of foreign parboiled rice with Duty Paid Value of N312, 242, 064.93k.

13, 835 x 30 liters Jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit equivalent to 415, 050 liters or 13 petroleum tankers with Duty Paid Value of 738,276, 461k. 15,389 of General Merchandise Goods, 41 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, 4,900 Tablets 225mg of Tramadol Tamol-X 3,600 Tablets 225mg Tramadol Royal 225,157 Tablets of Heineken Ecstacy, 864 Packs of Cigarette

“In the same vein, Officers and Men of the Command acting on credible intelligence intercepted One Thousand Three Hundred and Sixty Four (1,364) 30 Liters Jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit equivalent to forty thousand eight hundred (40,800) litres over one Tanker Load and with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of (N24, 663, 355) only at the early hours of Friday 8th September, 2023 along the Badagry Coast

“The duty paid value for items seized for the period January to 8th Septmeber 2023 is One Billion, Eight Hundred and Twenty Seven Million, Three Hundred and Sixty Two Thousand, Six Hundred and Nineteen Niara (1, 827, 362, 619. 00)

“In addition to the above, in line with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) dictate of encouraging its personnels, the Officers and Men of the Command that were involved in the seizures of fake Six million USD ($6,000,000) currency, Fifteen (15) fake international passports and Ten (10) Driver’s license, and that of Donkey skins in January, 2023 have been commended by the Ag. Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

He however appreciated the Comptroller General of Customs for his support to the Command and also appreciate the Seme Badagry Community for their cooperation and to officers and men of the Command for their gallantry and patriotism. Our greatest appreciation goes to the media for highlighting our modest effort in Seme Area Command.

Export Terminals Now Enjoys Standard Connectivity To Ports – Bello-Koko

Lola Adesokan

September 9, 2023

Mohammed Bello-Koko, Managing Director, NPA

The Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority ?NPA), Mr. Mohammed Bello-Koko has disclosed that Export Processing Terminals presently enjoy technologically enhanced connectivity to ports and other infrastructure like Truck Transit Parks (TTPs) which simplify the access to ports and eliminates delays that formerly led to expired Agro-Exports.

Mr. Mohammed Bello-Koko made this known on Thursday while speaking at the 3rd JournalNG Port Industry Town Hall meeting held Rockview hotel, Apapa Lagos.

Bello-Koko who was ably represented by the Apapa Port Manager, Mr. Charles Okaga at the event with the theme “Essence of Automation to Productive Blue Economy,” stated that deployment of technology has helped to increase exports throughout from 30 to 35 percent annually in the last three years at Apapa port.

He disclosed ed that the vessel waiting time at the berths have been reduced to few hours, describing this as a major development from the former 1-6 day waiting time.

In his words “For our total throughput for Apapa port, we have about 35 percent export. Since 2021 export moved steadily from 30 percent and it also increased further in 2022. This is attributable to the establishment of the NPA Export Processing Terminals to eliminate factors that act as a clog in the wheel of logistics and ease of doing export business.”

“We must also note that we have enjoyed port stakeholders buy-in and support from several government agencies. It is also worthy to note that the presidency through the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) has played a key role in driving this agenda with NPA,” he said.

Also speaking at the Town hall meeting,, the Customs Area Controller, KLT Command, Timi Bomodi stressed that Nigeria’s hope of attracting Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) into the blue economy sector wouldn’t be realized without adequate data to guide investments.

Comptroller Bomodi opined that automation could be channeled towards the collation of such vital data to guide local investments, government policies and ultimately attract FDIs.

He however, admonished all port stakeholders to develop and publish their Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and ensure they adhere to these SOPs to avail port users a high degree of certainty on port processes.

He noted that the absence of SOPs at ports leads to ambiguity and hampers the ease of doing business.

On his part, the President General of Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Prince Adewale Adeyanju expressed concern that the rapid introduction of technology and innovations in the maritime domain will lead to massive job losses.

Adeyanju advised the relevant government agencies and other stakeholders to ensure that such technological advancement aren’t at the expense of maritime workers.

In his welcome address, the Publisher of JournalNG and convener of the Town hall meeting, Mr. Ismail Aniemu noted that talkshop is expected to set the tone for a credible and viable maritime agenda for the maritime industry.

“Today we have a Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, but the concept of this year’s theme was prepared several months ago. At that time, we never knew that the government would create a Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy out of the existing Transport Ministry.”

“Nevertheless, we know that in blue economy there are numerous low hanging fruits for economic diversification in Nigeria.

“Stakeholders and experts in this industry have used this talkshop to project their views which are encapsulated as recommendations for the government to consider. We also maximize the advantage of the mass media to propagate the issues emanating from the summit,” Aniemu quipped.

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