MMA2 TRAINING ACADEMY

NCAA Accredits MMA2 Training Academy

ZAINAB JUNAID

After successfully scaling through a rigorous approval process, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has finally accredited the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal TWO (MMA2) Training Academy. 

The institution which came into existence in 2019 is a subsidiary of MMA2 and is under the watch of Bi Courtney Aviation Service Limited (BASL), operators of the MMA2 Terminal. 

A statement made available to journalists by BASL’s Head of Corporate Communications, Mr. Oluwatosin Onalaja partly read, “The MMA2 Training Academy has outstanding instructors and experienced specialists with a proven track record of protective aviation security across Nigeria. Our highly interactive training courses provide the best mix of experience, theory and practice in a professional learning environment, using real-life case studies, practical applications and up-to-date technologies.”

The classrooms, Onolaja said,  has  adjustable floor plans and are equipped with virtual classrooms, business solutions, secretarial, printing and copying, training with power supply. Other benefits include easy parking,  free WiFi.

According to Onolaja, some of the courses to be handled by the academy under the NCAA accreditation include Aviation Security Awareness, ASTP 123 Basic,  X-Ray Interpretation and Screening and General Security Culture.

Among other things, the academy comprised of three well-furnished training classrooms each with a seat for 20 students.

He said: “Several ASTP 123 and security awareness training have been  completed over the last two years. Other courses available at the academy are aviation safety, emergency first aid; fire safety and emergency management.”

The MMA2 Academy’s Training Consultant, Mr. Abdulfatai Lawal, also laud the facilities offered by the institute saying, “The facility offers complete learning solutions for aviation security, aviation safety and behavioural courses delivered in a  conducive environment and at the client’s preferred location and time.

“MMA2 Training Academy courses are the most cost-effective and efficient way to train your team. Our courses are ICAO Standard training programmes  and conventional.  The conventional Training courses are customised and developed with industry-relevant organisational objectives as their core guidelines, “ Lawal added

MMA2, Aero, Dana.

MMA2 Collaborates with Aero, Dana Air to Compensate Regular flyers 

ZAINAB JUNAID 

In a bid to compensate regular flyers, users of Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2, (MMA2), Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operators of MMA 2 has decided to collaborate with Dana Airlines and Aero Contractors to organize a promo. 

According to BASL Head of Corporate Communications, Mr Oluwatosin Onalaja, the idea was to show appreciation and reward travellers that consistently patronise airlines at MMA2.

Mr Oluremi Jibodu, BASL’s Head of Aeronautical and Cargo Services, also said that the MMA2 Fly and Win Valentine Promo is scheduled to run throughout the month of February 2023. He added that Dana Airlines and Aero Contractors are the participating airlines.

According to him, any traveller that jointly purchases 2 Economy or Business Class return tickets from the participating airlines and is the first to check-in, in wins a free one-way flight ticket. Winners will be chosen every day until the end of February.

He thus advised interested members of the public to visit the participating airlines’ ticket reservation platforms at flydanaair.com and flyaero.com respectively, or visit the promo’s landing page on the MMA2 website at mma2.ng/fly-win-promo, or follow @mma2bicourtney on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter for more details.

Customs TinCan Command

TinCan Command Raises #574. 2bn Revenue in 2022 

ZAINAB JUNAID 

Amid economic downturn in the past one year, the TinCan Island Customs Command has proved to be the second largest seaport command in revenue generation after Apapa Command as it generated N574. 2billion penultimate year. 

This depicted an increase of 16.33% from what was generated in 2021.

 The Command collected N574,290,210,599.38 revenue between January to December, 2022 but raised N493,682,369,264.35 in 2021, an increase of N80,607,841, 335.03.

A Duty Paid Value (DPV) of N41,846,372,083.50, were intercepted and the seizures comprised- 763pkgs of Colarado (Cannabis Sativa) weighing 345.1kg with a street market value of N714,600,000 given by the NDLEA, 5 x 40 Containers of used Motor Tyre (5050 pistes), 1,150 Bales of second hand clothings, 1,190 Cartons of 20per Cartons of Possuem Bromate and Baking Powder, 11,392 Cartons of 1200 per Carton Armcol Injection Chiproquine Phosphate 322.5mg/5ml (IV and IM), 206,000 pieces of finished matchets, 1383 cartons of 50 rolls per carton of cigarettes.

These seizures compared with the 2021 record of 27 seizures with a DN of N607,267,617.00) only, showed an increase of eleven (11) seizures and N1,239,104,466.50.

Other seizures were; 650 cartons of 50 pieces per carton of new ladies shoes, 2.666 pieces in 36 pallets of new Starter Ex-Premium Inverter Battery, 1, 980 cartons of Assorted Non-Alcoholic Beverages and 1048 Cartons of Tilde Basmatic Rice, others include 2594 pieces of Ammunition and 20 pieces of Arms comprising of 1 Pistol with 611090 (S/W) model JCP 40mm, 1 Used Co2 Air Pistol with accessories cal 117(4.5m)BM, 1 Marksman repeater pistol, & Mace pepper gun and 10 suspected arms of various types.

While speaking on this achievement, the Command’s Chief, Adekunle Oloyede, noted that some strategic measures adopted last year made the revenue realisable. 

To him, “We engaged in periodic capacity building, reshuffling and redeployment of officers using the SWOT analysis, implementation of the VIN Valuation, Automation of the 546 procedure, re-introduction of the NIIT after deployment of a Non-Intrusive Inspection Technology Equipment to the Command, Proper Profiling, System Audit, Proper recheck or Examination and detailed but clearly inputted Inspection Acts, among others”.

He said the increase in Duty Paid Value rate was as a result of increased surveillance and intensified anti-smuggling drive, high value of seized items and the Naira-Dollar depreciation which leads to high exchange rate on imported items.

However, he disclosed that about 60 suspects were arrested and later granted administrative bail in connection with the seizures during the year, while the Command has 8 cases pending in court.

Western Marine Command

Comptroller Salefu Assumes Duty at Western Marine Command 

ZAINAB JUNAID 

Comptroller Salefu on Wednesday took over as the substantive area controller of the Western Marine Command of Nigeria Customs Service. 

The baton was handed over to him during a brief handing and taking over ceremony at the Command’s headquarters Ibafon Apapa, between the acting Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller SD Adamu and the new CAC, Comptroller Salefu.

The command PRO, SC MA Magaji in a statement said the latter urged Officers and men of the Command to join hands with him to ensure the Command continue to fulfill it’s mandate in an efficient and professional way.

He also enjoined them to see change in leadership as a constant phenomenon in their professional career and in life general.

Comptroller Salefu who has worked in various Customs formations and departments brings with him very rich and vast operational experience cutting across Revenue, Enforcement, Valuation, Classification, ICT, Intelligence and Administration.

Before his new appointment as the CAC Western Marine Command, Comptroller Salefu was Comptroller in the Department of Strategy, Research and Policy (SR&P), NCS headquarters Abuja and was until his promotion to the rank of a Comptroller, the DC Compliance, Port Harcourt Area 2 Onne.

The CAC also asked Officers and Men of the Command to tie their knot in the right place in order to improve on the existing tempo in anti smuggling operation and to build upon the achievements of past administration to achieve an increased scorecard.

He emphasized character and professionalism as sinequanon to productivity and also encouraged Officers and men of the Command to make discipline and compliance their watch word.

Comptroller Salefu concluded by t appreciating the Comptroller General and his Management team for the faith reposed in him and promised to execute his responsibilities effectively and efficiently.

NPA, ICRC Eye

NPA, ICRC Eye More Deep Sea Port in Other States

ZAINAB JUNAID 

Having successfully completed and commissioned Lekki deep seaport, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC) have started receiving more requests for the establishment of similar projects in other states. 

The Managing Director of the Authority, Mohammed Bello-Koko, disclosed this on the official Twitter handle of NPA. 

Koko said the authority and ICRC have been inundated with applications from prospective investors to build deep seaports in the country.

“Through PPP, additional deep-sea ports will come on board in the next few years. Several requests are being worked on by the Authority and @ICRCng.

“The outlook is positive and promising.

“Having the deepest port in Nigeria will improve traffic flow in the Apapa corridor, lower freight costs & ultimately lower trading costs.

For us @NigerianPorts, we intend to take advantage of this to recapture transshipment & transit cargoes that would typically call at nearby ports” Bello-Koko declared in the tweet.

While Still celebrating the successful completion and take off of the first mega seaport in the country, the NPA boss said the Lekki deep seaport, which was commissioned by President Mohammed Buhari Monday, January 23rd, 2023, was a major success story for public-private partnership on infrastructural development under the regulatory guidance of the ICRC.

“$361bn economic impact expected in 45 years from the Lekki deep seaport  is put at $1.5 billion assets and  $800m on construction on all Phases while $361 billion (Revenue from duties, royalties, taxes $201bn, Direct/Indirect business impact: $158bn) is being projected from the facility. 

“With over 169,000 Direct/Indirect jobs are expected to be created, the federal government has five percent equity shares in the mega facility, the Lagos State government has 20 percent shares while Lekki Port Investment Holding Inc holds 75 percent equity shares.

“The port has the deepest draught in Nigeria and one of the deepest in sub-Saharan Africa with a 16.2 metre draft with annual cargo tonnage of four million tons and annual container volume of 2.5 million teu, “ he said. 

Industrial Action

Strike: NAHCO Workers Call off Strike, Management Commends Passengers for their tolerance During Delays

ZAINAB JUNAID 

The management of the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company(NAHCO) has commended its passengers for their understanding and tolerance following the inconveniences faced today as a result the strike embarked upon by its workers early Monday, January 23rd, 2022, which obstructed their travel plans. 

NAHCO Workers according to a statement made available, had called off the industrial action which lasted for about 14 hours and all staff had resumed work immediately. 

The statement which was signed by the Management of the Company, unions’ representatives and regulatory agencies, partly read that the issue was resolved that the unions should call off the strike which lasted for about 14 hours, and all staff resumed work immediately.

It was agreed that NAHCO management withdraws the suit it instituted at the National Industrial Court against the unions; negotiations on staff welfare to resume Wednesday, January 25, and be concluded within the week; and that no staff should be penalized because of participation in the strike action.

However, the Group Executive Director of NAHCOAviance, , Dr. Sola Obabori, expressed sincere appreciation of the company to its clients who showed great understanding with NAHCO during the period of the strike action and to the passengers who were inconvenienced by the strike action.

He also extend the company’s deep appreciation to it’s esteemed clients, airline passengers, who depend on NAHCO and to the stakeholders who have intervened in calming down the situation.

He reiterated the readiness and commitment of the company to provide excellent customer experience to its clients and delight them continually noting that both staff and management are key stakeholders to reckon with.

Buhari Commissions Lekki Deep seaport

Buhari Commissions, transfer $1.5 billion Lekki seaport to Tolarams Group for 45 years

 ZAINAB JUNAID 

The modern Lekki deep seaport has been commissioned today Monday, January 23rd, 2023 by President Mohammad Buhari, after the port had under gone about two years of construction, which officially commenced on June 15th 2020.

The President also handed over the port to Tolarams Group for 45 years. 

The seaport connstructed by China Harbour Engineering Lekki Free Trade Zone LFTZ Enterprises(CHELE), a subsidiary of China Harbour Engineering Company, was billed to be completed by October 2022 and it is believed to be the deepest in Nigeria and one of the deepest in West Africa with a draft depth of 16.2metres in-depth and annual cargo tonnage of four million tons and annual container volume of 2.5million teu. 

However, prior to the cmmissioning of the deep seaport by President Muhammadu Buhari, the Nigerian Ports Authority(NPA) berthed a CMA-CGM container vessel to the port. The vessel is reputed to be one of the largest container vessels in the world which is about 400 metres long and could carry up to 20,000 containers.

The port is also expected to be connected to an $800m railway which is expected to be built to evacuate containers from the port.

It was gathered that private funders will bankroll the railway project while the seaport will eventually be handed back to the Federal government for ownership after the private developers have exhausted their rights to the place. This would increase the revenue base of Nigeria and Lagos. The facility was constructed by the Tolarams Group.

The port was constructed on Build, Own, Operate and Transfer(BOOT) basis for 45 years before it would be transferred to the federal government through the Nigerian Ports Authority(NPA) after the funders must have recouped their investments.

Passengers stranded at Lagos Airport

 Passengers Stranded at MMIA as NAHCO Workers Embark on Strike

ZAINAB JUNAID

Strong indications have emerged that many flights will be disrupted today as scores of international passengers were left stranded at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, (MMIA) Lagos following a strike embarked upon by workers of the Nigerian Aviation Handling Company Plc (NAHCo Plc) on Monday morning over alleged salary issues.

The workers had slated Monday morning for the commencement of their strike due to non satisfaction in their salary structure. 

The ground handling company handles airlines such as Delta, Turkish Air, Ethiopian Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Qatar, and Air France-KLM are some of the airlines the company handles and also do check-in, boarding, and ramp services for many international carriers.

One of the airlines handled by the ground handling company, Virgin Atlantic was left with no other choice but to withheld flight due to the strike action this morning despite its plea to the NAHCO Workers to please rescind their actions while NAHCO management look into the issue. All their moves end in null avoid. 

Many of its passengers today are students who are returning to schools in the United Kingdom, had arrived at the international wing of the Lagos airport for their flights, unaware of what awaited them. Many were seen throwing words at some NAHco workers for choosing to embark on strike as confusion reigned at the terminal.

General Sales Agent (GSA) for Virgin Atlantic Airways, Chief John Adebanjo stated that the situation had already put its passengers in a panic mode as the airline was optimistic that the situation would be resolved and passengers allowed to board for their 10 am flight.

However, it was gathered that NAHCO management had met with the staff on Sunday over the proposed strike but assured that the situation will be addressed soon.

The situation as at the time of filing this report depicted that more airlines could be affected by the problem created by the Staff of NAHCO company today. 

APC Aspirant Tinibu

 Tinubu Pledges to actualize Lekki Deep Seaport Project, Decongest Lagos Ports

ZAINAB JUNAID

Presidential Candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has vowed to decongest Lagos Ports by modernizing other ports outside the state. 

Tinubu made this pledged during his consultative session in Abuja with the Federation of Construction Industry in Nigeria, adding that he is committed to realising the immense opportunities inherent in the Lekki deep seaport, the first new seaport in decades, which is more than 90 per cent completed.

He said his administration would focus on transportation infrastructure, building more roads, rails and improving water transport to ease movement. 

The former Lagos State Governor also promised that his administration would see to the completion of critical ongoing national railway projects which includes: Lagos – Kano; Benin – Abakaliki; Port Harcourt – Maiduguri; Lagos – Calabar; and Kano – Maradi (Niger State) 

His words, “In addition, we shall deploy technology and security assets to protect travellers and ensure the safety and integrity of our railway infrastructure. We will sustain the investments already made by the Buhari administration and deepen ongoing reforms in the sector. 

 “Overall, the transportation sector is valued at N37 trillion. Transport activities contributed 1.84% to real GDP in Q2 2022. Sustaining the political will and technical capacity to move people and goods in a safe, affordable and accessible manner will create a better future for Nigerians. We will, therefore, work hard to improve our various transportation systems and, in the process, unlock the value chain of opportunities therein,” Tinubu said in the interactive session. .  

Also speaking at the session, another former Lagos State Governor now the Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), affirmed that if Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is elected, he would continue with the infrastructure project started by President Buhari, since infrastructure is the back bone of a nation’s economy, “Tinubu will not abandon the project started by the President Buhari,” Fashola said. 

Customs Approves Appointment of New Management

 Customs Approves Appointment of New Management Members in Acting Capacities

ZAINAB JUNAID 

Following the statutory retirement of some members of the management team of Nigeria Customs Service, the Comptroller General of Customs has approved the appointment and redeployment of the management members to enhance strategic and effective service delivery.

A statement made available on Thursday evening to maritime Journalists and signed by Compt. Timi Bomodi National Public Relations Officer of Customs disclosed this highlighting the officers as- EI EDORHE DCG Finance Admin & Technical Service; HK GUMMI DCG Tariff and Trade; M ABBA-KURA Ag. DCG Enforcement Inspection & Investigation; AG SAIDU Ag. DCG Human Resource Development; JP AJOKU Ag. DCG Excise, Free Trade Zone & Industrial Incentives; BA ADENIYI Ag. DCG Strategic Research and Policy; GA ITOTOH Ag. DCG Training and Doctrine Command; O Peter's Ag. ACG/Zonal Coordinator Zone ‘D’; AI ALFA Ag. ACG Strategic Research and Policy; HJ SWOMEN Ag. ACG Excise, Free Trade Zone & Industrial Incentives; KC EGWUH Ag. ACG Training and Doctrine Command; MBA MUSA Ag. ACG Tariff and Trade; A DAPPA-WILLIAMS Ag. ACG Enforcement Inspection & Investigation; BM JIBO Ag. ACG Headquarters; A HAMISU Ag. ACG/Commandant Nigeria Customs Command & Staff College; Y SALIHU Ag. ACG Finance & Admin; MI YUSUF Ag. ACG ICT/Modernization; SA BOMAI Ag. ACG Board; CK NIAGWAN Ag. ACG Finance, Admin & Technical Services; KI ADEOLA Ag. ACG Training and Doctrine Command. 

While thanking the retired members of the management for their meritorious service and support, the Comptroller General of Customs, Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (Rtd) CFR congratulated the newly appointed Officers and charged them to redouble their efforts in ensuring the Service achieves greater heights in its mandates of revenue generation, suppression of smuggling and trade facilitation.

Jamoh Calls for Stakeholders Engagement

 Jamoh Calls for Stakeholders Engagement in #278.5bn CVFF Disbursement

ZAINAB JUNAID 

The Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Bashir Jamoh has called for stakeholders engagement in order to hasten disbursement of the recently approved #278. 5bn Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF). 

Dr. Jamoh made this call at the Colloquium held on Thursday at Rockview Hotel, Apapa, in honour of late Otunba Kunle Folarin with the theme “Ensuring Effective Disbursement of Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund.”

It could be recalled that the Federal Government approved the disbursement of the (#278. 5bn) CVFF to indigenous ship owners in December 2022 after 17 years of neglect which has hindered expansion of the Shipping Industry. Government also appointed five commercial banks for the disbursement of the fund- Union, Zenith, Polaris, United Bank for Africa and Jaiz Bank respectively. 

The announcement does not only break jinx but also rekindled hope of the ship owners that has lost. 

Speaking as one of the panelists at the Colloquium, Dr. Jamoh noted that the CVFF funds cannot be disbursed easily without stakeholders engagement pointing out that about eight shipping companies have not paid their Ship Acquisitions and Ship Building Funds (SASBF) till date. “More reasons stakeholders needs to be engaged in the disbursement of this funds, “ he said. 

Also speaking on the topic, Jean Chiazor Anichere, (SAN), an expert in the industry explained that a ship owner or company can get about $25 million (N10, 282,023,175.00) and shall have a maximum of seven years’ payback. The CVFF is to be disbursed on a single-digit interest rate of 5.6 percent, 0.25 percent processing fees. 

She went further attributing inaccessibility of funds and lack of transparency as major barrier of Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF) since its inception.

To her, “The CVFF, a government-funded initiative established to promote the development of a Nigerian-owned and operated maritime industry has faced limitations and challenges among which she highlighted to include - Lack of transparency; inaccessibility; Limited funds; Bureaucratic process; Limited Impact; Lack of accountability. 

“It is worth noting that these challenges can be addressed with proper management, transparency and stakeholder engagement. A better defined and transparent loan disbursement process, and a system of accountability for the loan use and repayment, would go a long way in addressing some of these limitations,” Jean said. 

However, on the legacy left behind and in memory of late Otunba Kunle Folarin, NIMASA DG, announced at the event that one of the expected Vessel by the agency to be delivered in February has been named after Otunba Kunle Folarin. 

“This is done to honour him for his great contributions in the industry” Jamoh said. 

Other Stakeholders present at the event are High Priest Chris Asoluka, Chief Remi Ogungbemi, NUJ Chairman Lagos State Chapter, Mr. Leye Ajayi Madam Bola Muse, Alhaji Aminu Umar, Madam Vivian – General Manager Nigeria Chamber of Shipping, Chief Jolapo Isaac. They regarded Otunba Kunle Folarin as a living legend maritime economist, a cerebral and an encyclopedia who had lived his life not only to impact the young ones but laid a legacy, a foot print that other stakeholders must build on. 

MWUN threatens journalist

MWUN threatens journalist over 20 illegal checkpoints story

.. Accuses him of issuing COMTUA press release

The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Erazua Oniha, has threatened to deal with Mr. Jerry Aguigbo, publisher, TodayNews online, accusing him of instigating a press statement circulated by the Council of Maritime Truck Unions and Associations (COMTUA).

Mr. Aguigbo, just like many other journalists, did a story from the COMTUA press statement issued on Monday, where it accused MWUN of mounting 20 illegal checkpoints between Mile2 and Coconut bus stop. This is what Comrade Oniha regarded as a wrong move, thus made the threat. 

Aguigbo, who is the Secretary-General, Maritime Journalists Association of Nigeria (MAJAN), had before writing the story contacted Mr Oniha to get the union's side of the story and verbally reflected that in his report on Monday.

Oniha, later on Tuesday called and asked for the journalist's WhatsApp number to enable him despatch the union's response to the COMTUA allegations to him. This, the journalist did without wasting time.

Trouble however, started when Aguigbo tried to correct an impression in the first paragraph of the response, which attributed the COMTUA press statement to him and his medium, pointing out to Oniha that he merely reported the story and never issued the release.

Here is MWUN response to COMTUA: "The attention of Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria has been drawn to a press release making the rounds released by an online media, "TodayNews" anchored by one Jerry Aguigbo published January 16, 2023: targeting the personage of the President General and other union officials while alleging MWUN involvement in activities outside its jurisdictional scope and membership composition..."

When the journalist tried to let him realise that he never issued the release as their response indicated, Oniha flared up, commanding him to use the rejoinder verbatim as signed by the Secretary General, Comrade Felix S. Akingboye like that

He threatened that the journalist would "see the other side of me" if he failed to do what he had ordered him to do.

And it could be recalled that many journalists did the COMTUA story even without any recourse to MWUN but Aguigbo expressly reflected the union's reaction, as stated by Oniha in a telephone conversation, in his own report.

MWUN, COMTUA Brawl...

 MWUN, COMTUA Brawl Over Extortion fee of N2000 at 20 illegal Checkpoints

ZAINAB JUNAID 

The Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN) and the Council of Maritime Truck Unions and Associations (COMTUA) have exchanged words over allegations put forward by the latter on the extortion imposed on its members regarding the manned twenty (20) illegal checkpoints from Coconut to TinCan Port second gate where #2, 000 is forcefully collected from truckers per check point. 

Mr. Erazu Oniha, MWUN Public Relations Officer (PRO), argued that the allegation does not hold a water as the move was deliberately meant to tarnish MWUN image since it pulled out of COMTUA. 

Oniha degrade COMTUA, ascribing the union as a brainchild of all Maritime Unions; a child of necessity which was to mitigate the problems bedeviling the Unions and its members but went against the tenets it was created for. 

It could be recalled that the National President of COMTUA, prince Adeyinka Aroyewun had on Monday accused MWUN of not reciprocating positively to the  letters of complaint and consultation sent by COMTUA to parks and Garage Committees, Park Administration Committee and MWUN, notifying them of the illegal activities taken place at this point. 

Instead of approaching the matter in a civilized way, Aroyewun said the other party (MWUN) resulted to a provocative affront. "They rather connived with government agencies to extort our MEMBERS the more."

Aroyewun lamented that MWUN operates 20 checkpoints from Coconut to Tin-Can Port Second gate where N2,000 is forcefully collected per point from our members. 

According to him, “The Coconut to Tin-Can Port Second gate is under the watch of MWUN president General Comrade Adewale Adeyanju whose main coordinator is Taofeek Shorinola fondly called Sheu Tao. They injured and sometimes kill our members for non-compliance to the extortion. Parks and Garages have Abayomi Abeyi Ajele fondly called Ikomodina, Michael Adewale often referred as Hot water and Raji-student mount. They are all in charge of the check points between Mile 2 and Sunrise where the amount between N2,000 and N6,000 are forcefully collected per point from our members. Also, the likes of Chiboy and Adeleke collect money from truckers around Kirikiri, FATGBEMS, Badagry Express Road and inside Amuwo Odofin,” he said. 

But in response to all these allegations, Oniha declared COMTUA allegations are. Frivolous, explaining that “COMTUA wrote us to say that our haulage branch is mounting illegal road blocks, we discovered that this was completely false. Yes our constitution permits the haulage branch to ticket trucks within zones inside the ports but anything outside the ports is not from our members, so it's false.”

Oniha maintained that COMTUA's accusation of treating their letter with disdain is untrue. 

He said, "They wrote us and copied the Commissioner of Police Maritime, the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and we responded appropriately to all these.” 

On the accusation of collaborating with the newly formed Lagos Parks and Garages Committee, Oniha disclosed that MWUN is at war with afore mentioned group. 

To him, “They attacked, maimed and killed 4 of our members at Tin can Port for which after settlement they were asked to pay compensation to the victims, including burying those who were killed, another attack by the same group also reoccurred recently, how can we now collaborate with them? This matter is in the public domain because the Customs Service, Tincan island Command wrote them. So as you can see their claims are frivolous and this is coming up because we left COMTUA," Comrade Oniha stated.

SAHCO Bags Accuracy and Precision Excellence Award 

ZAINAB JUNAID. 

As part of its relentless pursuit of accuracy and precision in cargo operational services at all levels, Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc (SAHCO), has again bagged the Accuracy and Precision Excellence award at the 2022 Accuracy and Precision Excellence award Dinner held recently in Lagos. 

The APE Award was conferred on SAHCO by AVOLAD Engineering Nigeria Limited, an Indigenous Engineering Company that specializes in cargo/baggage weighing equipment used for weighing Cargo bulks needed to provide load control with the accurate measurement of the pallets loaded on the aircraft and for determining the cost of the cargo for import and export. 

Speaking on the award, AVOLAD’s General Manager, Adebayo Oluyamo said the nomination of Skyway Aviation Handling Company PLC (SAHCO) for the 2022 award was based on SAHCO’s relentless pursuit of accuracy and precision in cargo operational services at all times.

Oluyamo  explained that careful consultations were made during  the screening process and the committee approved the conferment on SAHCO based on sterling performance and exceptional contributions towards proper maintenance and calibration of SAHCO weighing equipment, development of standard accuracy and precision procedures in operational services thereby maintaining world standards in offering cargo services.

However, the Managing Director/ CEO of SAHCO, Mr. Basil Agboarumi in appreciation mood, thanked the organizers for recognizing SAHCO, adding that the award will encourages the company to deliver at its best. 

Basil reiterated that his company which recently got its  ISO 900:2015 Certification, was known for adhering strictly to International Standards in everything it engages in and always provide excellent services to its numerous customers using its world class Ground Support Equipment 

Spokesperson for SAHCO, Mrs Uansohia Vanessa Adetola in a statement also said “SAHCO, a Public Liability Company that keeps raising the bar in the Aviation Ground Handling industry deserves the award as it’s building and maintaining a fleet of ultra-modern ground handling equipment that are fitted with the latest technological innovations. The company also has well-trained customer-centric staff with presence in all the commercially operated airports in Nigeria and ultra- modern warehouses with massive cold rooms and freezers. 

“SAHCO is involved in Passenger Handling services, Ramp Handling services, Cargo Handling services and Warehousing, Aviation Security services, VIP lounge services and other Aviation related services by delivering quality services that is always aimed at exceeding customers’ expectations,” she said. 

AFCFTA Story

 Buhari Tasks African Countries On AFCFTA

ZAINAB JUNAID 

In a bid for African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AFCFTA) to have positive impact on African economy, especially in long term investment productive capacities the Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari has urged African Governments to adopt appropriate supporting policies, build requisite infrastructure and have educated work force. 

President Buhari stated this today at the ongoing 9th edition of African Shippers’ Day organized by Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC) in collaboration with the Union of African Shippers’ Council (UASC) in Lagos, with the theme “African Continental Free Trade Agreement: A Veritable Platform for African Shippers to Mainstream into Global Trade,”

The President, who was represented by the Minister of State for Transportation, Prince Ademola Adegoroye, affirmed that making AfCFTA a reality will require creating national institutions for implementing the Agreement, in addition to institutional coordination mechanisms for execution between public sector, private sector and donors. 

“That is why the Nigerian Government have intensified efforts aimed at identifying new opportunities for diversification and value chain development under the AfCFTA, and complementary actions considered necessary to overcome the existing constraints to intra African trade.

“This we will achieve through cross sectoral approach, considering not just trade, but also closely related areas such as agriculture, industry, macroeconomic management and infrastructure development, ” he said. 

Adegoroye also lamented on the sharp contrast in the intra African Trade in goods when compared to other regions like Asia and Europe. 

To him, as at 2017, intra-African trade in goods was $135 billion representing 15% of Africa’s total trade,  while that of European Countries is as high as 70% with 60% in Asia respectively. 

He noted that the imposition of export bans especially on food items by some countries and the disruption of global supply chain at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic showed how exposed and vulnerable African countries are because of limited productive capacity and lack of regional value chain.

In his words: “The global economy is a source of growth that African economies cannot afford to ignore. While African exports of goods and services have seen their fastest growth in the past decade, the volumes remain low at just 3 percent of global trade. African countries must therefore expand and diversify their participation in international trade and global value chains to create wealth, generate employment and to reduce poverty on a large scale as well as trans form their economies. Achieving this lofty economic objective I believe is one of the major reasons that informed the birthing of African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).”

“The establishment of the AfCFTA presents major opportunities of production and exports, creates employment and limits the impact of commodity price volatility on the economies of various African countries. AFCFTA is expected to bring about a number of benefits to producers, consumers and countries alike. However, for AFCFTA to have a positive influence on long-term investment in productive capacities, African government must develop appropriate supporting policies, build the requisite infrastructure and ensure an educated workforce. We will need to actively promote productive employment and decent workplace, women’s empowerment and food security and reduction in inequalities.”

In his welcome address, the Executive Secretary of NSC, Hon. Emmanuel Jime, stressed that there is a need to sensitize various governments within the region to fast-track the dismantling of tariff and non-tariff barriers hindering trade in the region.

Jime also asserted that the reorientation and reorganization of intra-African trade should start from the West African sub-region, adding that when the sub-region gets it right, it would be easier to connect and freely trade with other regions of the continent.

Describing transportation as a crucial vehicle for AfCFTA to thrive, he added that: “Africa needs to create smooth integration of transport Infrastructures and trade policies as well as the required awareness among the economic operators in the subregion.”

In a related development, the Secretary General of Abuja Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Port State Control for West and Central African Region, Capt. Sunday Umoren, reiterated the need to have African fleet that will convey goods to be traded within the region.

Umoren said, “AfCFTA came at the right time and we have this platform binding us together but we need to act fast and snatch the moment. Nothing stops this region from having a strong ship owing capacity, thus eliminating the burden and impact of high freight rate from foreign ships.”

“Abuja MoU would play its role as part of due diligence in supporting nations in engaging the carrier with respect to effective port state regulations in ensuring the safe carriage and delivery of goods with minimal issues,” he said. 

Media Friends organised Colloquium to Honour Late Otunba Folarin 

ZAINAB JUNAID 

Maritime Journalists in collaboration with the Nigerian Ports Consultative Council, (NPCC), have concluded plan to organize a One-Day seminar in memory of a beacon of the Maritime Industry, late Otunba Kunle Folarin, who passed on to the glory of God in November 8, 2022.

Organisers of the seminar made this known to maritime Journalists recently, stating that the theme for the day is “Ensuring Effective Disbursement of Cabotage Vessel Financing” and the paper will be presented by a maritime lawyer, Mrs Jean Chiazor Anichere (SAN). 

They said that the event, which was slated for Thursday, January 19, 2023 at the Rockview Hotel, GRA Apapa Lagos by 9.00am, would be chaired by Capt. Emmanuel lheanacho, a former minister of interior and a major player in the industry. 

Panel of discussants on the topic includes the Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA); Dr Bashir Jamoh, Shipowners Association of Nigeria (SOAN) President, Dr. MkGeorge Onyoung, Mrs. Funke Agbo, and  Chief Johnson Chukwu, a financial expert.

Stakeholders among which are Captains of industry, dignitaries, friends, maritime journalists, associates and family members of the late maritime guru are all expected at the colloquium. 

NPA Appoints Josephine Moltok as New Image Maker

  

MAJAN President, Ray Ugochukwu Applauds NPA on appointment of Josephine Moltok as new PR

ZAINAB JUNAID 

The President, Maritime Journalists Association of Nigeria (MAJAN), Comrade Ray Ugochukwu, has commended the Management of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) on the appointment of Mrs. Josephine Moltok as the new General Manager (GM), Corporate and Strategic Communications (C&SC).

Ray Ugochukwu made this commendation today while informing MAJAN members on the development, affirming that the newly appointed GM of Corporate Communications for the Authority has the intelligence and ability to protect the image of the authority. 

Ugochukwu, who is a renowned writer and seasoned Journalist, described Mrs. Moltok as an intelligent, highly experienced candidate for the position and has the competence to deliver her newly appointed assignment in NPA.

The new GM took over on Tuesday, from Mrs Oluyemisi Oyinlola, a lawyer, who only held the office for barely one month.

Moltok, an old war horse in media and PR management, was for many years, the NPA’s Head of  Overseas Liaison Office in London. She returned to Nigeria last year to head the Administration Division of the Authority as its GM from where she was moved to the new position. 

The soft-spoken new image maker, our reporter gathered, hailed from Plateau State and has worked as a Public Relations Officer (PRO) in the defunct Western Zone of NPA in Apapa and later moved to the Calabar Port.

She also worked at the agency’s defunct head office in Abuja after which she came to serve at the former Roll-On Roll-Off (RoRo) Port in Tin Can, Lagos, even as she equally headed the PR Unit of the Lagos Port Complex (LPC), Apapa.

Mrs Moltok was to later serve as the National Assembly Liaison Officer of NPA in the Abuja liaison office where she later became the Assistant General Manager (AGM).

At her promotion to a General Manager, the new NPA image maker headed the Servicom Division before moving to the London office.

Her colleagues and peers have always quoted her as one who prides herself as having “been privileged to work with and be mentored by exceptional people.

However, Mrs Oyinlola has thus returned to her former duty post as the GM Legal Services/Board. For the little period she occupied the C&SC position, the staff of the department saw her as one who not only hit the ground running but passionate and full of compassion for them and stakeholders, including the few journalists that came her way.

Nigerian Shippers Council

 UASC, NSC Set for 9th Edition of African Shipper's Day in Lagos 

ZAINAB JUNAID 

The Nigerian Shipper’s Council (NSC) in collaboration with the Union of African Shippers’ Council (UASC) have concluded plan to organize the forthcoming 9th edition of African Shippers Day in Lagos. 

The event which will hold under the auspices of the Federal Ministry of Transportation is scheduled for Monday 16th January to Wednesday 18th January, 2023 at Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. 

According to the organisers, the theme of the event, ‘‘African Continental Free Trade Agreement: A Veritable Platform for African Shippers to Mainstream into Global Trade’’, will be declared open by His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR while Engr. Mu’Azu Jaji Sambo, the Honourable Minister of Transportation is the Chief host.

Shipper’s day forum has always been an avenue for the exchange of ideas and experiences amongst shippers’ organizations in the West and Central African Sub-regions, discussions on issues that will improve maritime trade, and disseminating information on the role of Shippers’ Councils and UASC.

The Organisers also disclosed that the Secretary General, African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Mr. Wamkele Mene would make a presentation on the topic ‘‘AfCFTA: Vehicle for Africa’s Economic Growth & Development,” while other speakers are the Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce Nigeria (ICCN), Mrs. Olubunmi Osuntuyi who will speak on ‘‘The Role of INCOTERMS 2020 in the Implementation of African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and Mr. Nwachukwu Remigus, Manager, Trade Finance, African Export-Import Bank, expected to speak on ‘‘Payment Systems in International Trade’’.

WABOTAN

WABOTAN Launches #10 Million Multipurpose Cooperative Society for Boat Operators 

… Inaugurates Lagos Chapter Executives 

ZAINAB JUNAID 

Just as the Waterfront Boat Owners and Transporters Association (WABOTAN) celebrated its newly created Ten Million Naira (#10, 000, 000) worth Multipurpose Cooperative Society for it’s members in order to alleviate their financial challenges in boat operations, the association has also inaugurated it’s Lagos State Chapter Executives which includes; Comrade Doubrah Jacob as State Chairman, Abraham Mesu as Vice Chairman, State Secretary is Ganiyu Jinadu.

Other New executives are; Aiyeyemi Omosuyi as State Assistant Secretary, Oluwaseyi Samuel as State Treasurer, William Emasoga as State Financial Secretary, the State Public Relations Officer is Ramon Babatunde, while the Provost is Daniel Abayo.

Speaking on the inauguration, WABOTAN President, Tope Fajemirokun said the step is necessary in order to concretize the association’s organogram.

“In this association, we have an organogram where we have the BOT, National, States and Zones. We are just coming up, the BOT has inaugurated the National body, so, today the National body is also inaugurating the state body so that they can carryout state activities, the National body cannot be everywhere, the State executives have to control matters concerning the state.

“We expect them to work closely with the Lagos State Government, regulators and boat operators at their own state level and their must not be any conflict of interest. As National President, I cannot be doing the work of state executives.

"What we are targeting now is membership drive, we want to reach out to more boat drivers and expose them to our plans for the profession and for the waterways” he said

The association has also launched a sticker for all members to be placed on their boats so as to ensure identification.

“We are compiling the data base of all our members which we would send to the regulatory authorities, once the boat number or membership member of the boat is imputed in their system, it would bring out all information” Fajemirokun added.

Also speaking, Chairman Board of Trustees (BOT) of WABOTAN, Comrade Paul Gwam stated that the association is now targeting the establishment of executives in all litoral states, even up to the North.

Comrade Gwam said the inauguration of the state chapter executives is to assist the National Executive which is already on ground, so that they can address some of the challenges on ground, by so doing, the national executives can concentrate on other national matters.

His words, “When you are given a position, it is for a responsibility, maybe the people were sleeping before, but right now, they have to meet up with the challenges ahead of them, especially from the boat drivers.

“For instance, we have been calling them for their certification, we have done a lot of courses for them to get their basic mandatories and have their drivers license, but they are adamant to come for that test, it is not a written test but oral.

“We have done about three training programmes for them, we want them to get their certificate which would even allow them to drive within the West Coast, it would also give them some sense of belonging, this is because some of the operators drive recklessly.

“The State executives and his Excos should be able to tackle all these challenges with state agencies like NIWA, NIMASA and LASWA.

“We hope to reciprocate this inauguration in other parts of the country, even up North, it’s just a matter of time, very soon you would be hearing us in Lokoja, Bayelsa and so on, ” he said. 

On his part, the newly inaugurated Lagos State Chairman, Comrade Doubrah Jacob promised that his executives would promote safety and peace on the Lagos waterways and to represent the less privileged.

He also called on boat operators to join WABOTAN for more progress.

“We have been on this project to ensure that there is safety on the waterways and to improve the way we passenger people from one place to another.

We are not in competition with any group, within a short time people would see what we are up to.

“We are having training programs ahead of us to teach our members on how to handle life jackets and how to identify original ones that can enable people float on the water in case their is any accident, we shall have these life jackets tested and trusted before we give it out to people.

“Also, a lot of boat operators because of the economic situation of the country cannot change their life jackets and it has become so dirty, we are going to work on all these areas, so that whoever is entering into the boat would know that he is entering a clean atmosphere, cleanliness is very important” he maintained.

However, on the cooperative Society, Mr. Tope Fajemirokun stated that the Multipurpose Cooperative Society has been officially inaugurated by the Lagos State Government two months ago.

“In an association, you cannot just be collecting money from your members, on the state level, they would ask you one question, what is your capacity?

The corporative society is coming up for us to generate more money and for our members to make more money and the least share a member can buy to join the society is #25, 000,” he added. 

CRFFN Registrar Story

CRFFN Registrar’s bid for Second Term faces Doom 

ZAINAB JUNAID

Strong indications have emerged that the Registrar of the Council for the Registration of Freight Forwarding practice in Nigeria (CRFFN), Samuel Nwakohu, might not win the heart of his fellow members following his last minutes efforts to bid for a second term tenure in office as the head of the freight forwarding regulatory body.

The outgoing Registrar, Mr. Nwakohu, who was appointed in February 2019, is expected to officially leave office in February 2023 after successfully completing his four years tenure. Information at our disposal revealed that he has written the regulatory body to declare his intention for second term tenure late last year but the move was not welcome by majority of the freight forwarders as they declared him unqualified, at the first meeting held by the Council on Tuesday, January 10th, 2023 at Rockview Hotel, Apapa Lagos where members deliberated on his second term tenure chances.

It was gathered that, earlier at the December 2022 meeting of the Council in Abuja, where the application letter of the outgoing registrar for a second term tenure was read, a committee was raised to look into his request to return. The committee according to the information gathered, was given two weeks to submit its findings to the council which has the statutory rights to make recommendations on the bid of the Registrar to the Minister of Transportation, Engr Muazu Sambo.

Members were said to have unanimously dismissed the second-term bid of Nwakohu and saw the move as obscene, unwarranted and an insult to the collective psyche of freight forwarders given what they all agreed was his unmitigated failure at the meeting on Tuesday. 

Also in a telephone chat with Standard Times Reporter on this development Tuesday evening, Mr Mukaila Babatunde of Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents, ANLCA, considered him not effective. 

He said, Nwakowu does not deserve a second term in office as the registrar of CRFFN. His tenure was an unmitigated disaster. He is arrogant. He doesn’t relate well with the freight forwarders, which he was meant to supervise. He is quick to anger. He distanced himself from his immediate constituency. 

“We need someone who is ready to learn, someone who listens to correction, and suggestions without taking Offences. Personally, I do not want to see him (Sam Nwakohu) return as the Registrar of CRFFN,” he declared. 

Another member of the association who spoke in the same vein declared him “Unwanted” as he challenged his inability to achieve greater Value with his four years in office. 

All these among others are likely parameters that can deny him chances of winning the second term bid. 

Police, Tout clash in Ojota, Lagos

One Killed as Police, Tout clash in Ojota, Lagos

ZAINAB JUNAID

A yet-to-be-identified male adult has been killed in a clash between some Touts and the police in the Ojota area of Lagos State on Monday.

The Video of the incident which has gone viral in the early hours of Monday depicted a police van burnt in the ensuing outrage and a dead body of a man lying lifeless on the street at Ojota area. 

Commuters were seen running to safety in the heat of the pandemonium which broke out on Monday morning.

Details later... 

NRC Debunks Shutdown operations Viral stories

 Edo Train Abduction: One Suspect Arrested as a  Victim Escaped

… Government Condemns Attack 

ZAINAB JUNAID

Just as the police command in Edo State on Sunday afternoon confirmed the arrest of one of the suspected herdsmen that attacked and kidnapped scores of passengers waiting to board a train to Warri, Delta State on Saturday evening, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) in an interview with Channels TV on Sunday debunked reports of the suspension of train services on the Itakpe-Warri axis following an attack by gunmen on Ekehen Train Station in the Igbuebem Local Government Area (LGA) of Edo State.

 The reports that NRC had suspended operations in the affected state station went viral on social media few hours after the incident happened in Edo State but the Managing Director of NRC, Fidet Okhiria, told Channels Television via telephone that the train services have not been suspended, contrary to reports making the rounds.

He confirmed that there was an attack which the police and the NRC are currently looking into, but said the incident has not disrupted operations at the station.

“As I speak to you now, a train is running,” Okhiria said, adding that the railway corporation is putting in place measures to ensure the safety of passengers.

While speaking on the train station attack, spokesperson for the State Police Command, Chidi Nwabuzor disclosed that the attack which took place on Saturday evening, left many injured but a suspect has been arrested.

According to the Police, the abductors, armed with AK-47 rifles, invaded the train station and shot indiscriminately into the air before abducting scores of intending travellers into the bush.

“Among those kidnapped by the herdsmen were the train station manager, Godwin Okpe, Head of Security, identified simply as Ikhayere, an Igueben community resident, Victor Osarobho and the station ticket clerk, also identified as Akhere,” he said.

Also, at the scene of the incident, Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Osa Nehikhare, described the incident as a terrifying situation for the state government.

Nehikhare, noted that immediately the incident occurred, a combined team of military, police, vigilante, and local hunters swung into action and are on the heels of the suspected kidnappers with a view to rescuing the victims, this, in the process led to the arrest of one of the Kidnappers. 

 At the moment, security personnel made up of the military and the police as well as men of the vigilante network and hunters are intensifying search and rescue operations in reasonable radius to rescue the kidnap victims.

” As at 3 pm on Sunday, one suspect has been captured and is helping police with their investigation; One victim out of the victims kidnapped escaped from the hands of the gunmen. We are confident that the other victims will be rescued in the coming hours.” He said. 

The Federal Government  on its part has condemned the attack describing it as a despicable and utterly barbaric kidnapping of passengers at Tom Ikimi Train Station  Igueben Edo State.

In a release by the transportation ministry, the government reassured that the security agencies are making efforts to rescue the kidnapped Train passengers.

“The Nigerian Police is on the trail of the criminals and have mobilised with a view to protecting the lives and property of the remaining passengers.

“The Government is saddened by this unpleasant development and assures of its prompt response to the ugly situation” the statement reads.

Nigeria Customs Service

 Nigeria Customs Service Appoints 3 ACGs, Promotes 1490 Senior Officers 

ZAINAB JUNAID 

The Board of Directors of Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has approved the appointment of three Assistant Comptrollers General (ACGs) as well as the promotion of 1, 490 senior officers of General Duty and Support Staff to various high ranks.

The appointments and promotions took effect from 1st January 2022.

According to a statement issued and signed by the Customs National Public Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada and made available to journalists, the newly appointed Assistant Comptroller-Generals are: ACG Greg Itotoh, ACG Festus Okun and ACG Shuaibu Ibrahim.

Some of the newly promoted Comptrollers are the Customs National PRO, Timi Bomodi; Musa Omale, Zanna Chiroma, Stanley Nwankwo, Ajibola Odusanya, Paul Ekpenyong, Abubakar Umar, Maureen Ajuzieogu, MO Bewaji, among others.

A breakdown of the board’s approval depicted that there are three new Assistant Comptrollers General (ACGs) were appointed; 64 Deputy Comptrollers (DCs) were promoted  to Comptrollers of Customs (CCs), 128 Assistant Comptrollers (ACs) were upgraded to Deputy Comptrollers (DCs), 89 officers were moved from Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSCs) to Assistant Comptrollers (ACs), 220 Superintendents of Customs (SCs) to Chief Superintendent Customs (CSCs), 107 Deputy Superintendents of Customs (DSCs) to Superintendents of Customs (SCs), 302 Assistant Superintendents of Customs I (ASC I) to Deputy Superintendents of Customs (DSCs), 223 Assistant Superintendents of Customs II (ASC II) to Assistant Superintendents of Customs I (ASC I), 357 Inspectors of Customs (ICs) promoted to Assistant Superintendents of Customs II (ASC II). 

Similarly, the Management of Nigeria Customs had earlier approved the promotion of 1, 252 men within the ranks of Inspectors and Customs Assistant cadres.

The Comptroller General of Customs, Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (Rtd) congratulated the newly appointed and promoted Officers, and tasked them to redouble their efforts in ensuring the Service achieves its set out goals.

SAHCO is ISO 9001:2015 Certified

 SAHCO Bags ISO 9001:2015 Certification 

ZAINAB JUNAID 

Having satisfied necessary requirements in the scope of passengers, Ramp, Cargo, Warehouse handling and other aviation related services, Skyway Aviation Handling Company (SAHCO) has been awarded International Organization for Standardization (ISO 9001:2015) certificate for Quality Management System.

The certificate is an international standard recognition that identifies requirements for Quality Management System (QMS) which organisations use to demonstrate their ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customers’ and regulatory requirements.

The ISO certificate presented by West Sealand International Nigeria Limited (WSI) to SAHCO and endorsed by the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) a worldwide association that is interested in conformity assessment in the fields of management systems, products, processes, services, personnel, validation and verification and other similar programmes of conformity assessment; is expected to expire in 2025

While speaking at the presentation ceremony, Mr. Basil Agboarumi, Managing Director of SAHCO noted that SAHCO is used to undergoing audits for international certifications and is glad that the ISO 9001:2015 certification came to reality. 

He affirmed that as an aviation ground handling company, SAHCO always ensured its IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) certification is up-to-date and that SAHCO is RA 3 certified which is a requirement for all European bound freight handlers.

He appreciated Co workers for making the achievement a reality within a shorter period.

“Being ISO certified shows that SAHCO is indeed committed to providing safe, speedy, and efficient services to the satisfaction of all clients and would-be clients,” Basil said. 

Also speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of WSI, Mr. Ope Balogun expressed appreciation towards all staff of SAHCO, saying he is proud to be associated with SAHCO, that not all organisations that start the ISO 9001:2015 complete the process. 

Balogun maintained, “This achievement shows the level of commitment and dedication of all staff towards ensuring  a scaled through process for the certificate. It depicted Cordial relationship between the head and all subordinates of the company.”