NIMASA, MTCC Africa Collaborate to Mitigate the Impact of Biofouling

in Developing Countries 

..."the importance of protecting and conserving our seas, oceans and their inhabitants cannot be overemphasized as we are intrinsically linked to them and their wellbeing reflects our own wellbeing too." -Dr Jamoh 

ZAINAB JUNAID

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency(NIMASA) in collaboration with Maritime Technology Cooperation Center(MTCC) commenced a 3-day management training on Transfer of Environmentally-Sound Technologies (TEST Biofouling) project for partnering Countries in Nigeria.

This initiative is in line with International Maritime Organization(IMO)'s guideline for the Control and Management of Ship's Biofouling. 

While declaring the workshop open in Lagos on Monday October 30, 2023, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Bashir Jamoh noted that the training on Test Biofouling Project is an initiative of IMO in close partnership with the Maritime Technology Cooperation Center (MTCC) to assist developing countries advance their knowledge about how to facilitate the implementation of the IMO Biofouling Guidelines considering the complexity of biofouling management and the technologies available. 

Speaking on the theme "The Place of Technologies in the Management of Marine Biofouling" Dr Jamoh explained that IMO Guideline for the Control and Management of Ship's Biofouling is an international instrument aimed at addressing and maintaining the efficiency, safety and environmental sustainability of maritime operations as well as prevent the spread of invasive species in our waters. 

On the process by which Biofouling is formed, the NIMASA Boss said ships are at the crux of global trading and they serve as a channel for transportation of harmful non-indigenous Invasive Aquatic Species (IAS) with the organisms attaching themselves to the outer surface and niche areas of every ship. 

"The organisms are then translocated from one ecoregion to another. The process by which these organisms attached themselves to the ship and other surfaces is referred to as Biofouling," he said. 

According to him, "Since Nigeria's economy relies heavily on international trade with shipping being a key component of the country's import and export activities, which has inevitably exposed the nation to threats of the IAS transfer into our territorial waters the training becomes a necessity. 

"This training is Paramount as biofouling poses a huge threat to Nigeria's transition to the Blue Economy. It incurs environmental burdens such as low productivity, biodiversity, lower resilience to climate change and economic burdens including financial loss due to low productivity, huge prevention and control costs, in addition to increased operational cost of offshore infrastructures among others."

Dr. Jamoh added that the training will showcase newest technologies and applications which include cost-effective practices and related benefits for the environment and efficiency of shipping. 

Also speaking, the Director, Head, Department of Partnerships and Projects, IMO, Dr. Jose Matheickal in his Google message, commended Nigeria for contributing significantly to IMO's policy development process, and for their active participation in IMO meetings. NIMASA especially for taken the lead in partnering with MTCC Africa for the training on TEST Biofouling in Nigeria.

"I remember my early involvement with Nigeria on Ballast water project in which Nigeria became a lead country and has really acted very faar to put the convention into force. So I'm really hoping that Nigeria will follow the same path when it comes to the biofouling guidelines.

Matheickal urged Nigerians to key in to the biofouling guidelines, saying, "This event is very meaningful as it serves as a platform for information sharing. The event will be a milestone for Nigeria as one of our TEST partnering countries. We have been encouraging more women to participate in the sector and we are very excited to find African Women in Maritime (WIMAFRICA) Nigeria and other women groups emerging in the maritime space.

"I'm sure together we can work to ensure a sustainable maritime industry that supports all the beneficiary countries as well as the rural economy for our future," he said. 

In his goodwill message, Captain Sunday Umoren, the Secretary-General, Memorandum of Understanding on Port State Control for West and Central African Region (Abuja MoU), affirmed that marine Biofouling increases costs of fueling vessels to shipowners 

He added that aquatic species have good, bad and the ugly side and to maintain a balance in the aquatic environment respective maritime countries need to keep their aquatics. 

Dr Oma Ofodile, Deputy Director, Marine Environment Management Department, NIMASA and MTCC Africa Focal Point, on her part, stressed how NIMASA ensured MTCC mandate is achieved by ensuring Nigeria get enough capacity to reduce biofouling rate.

She noted that the training is a way to close the gap from emision and urged all participant Countries not to be left behind on the IMO call for zero emissions by 2050.

“NIMASA has done a lot to reduce emissions and the training is one of the ways to close the gap of emission from vessels,” Ofodile said.

Earlier in his welcome speech, the Director of Marine Environment Management Department, NIMASA, Mr Heaky Dimowo, appreciated the support and relentless efforts of IMO and MTCC towards making the workshop a success and called on all delegates to support the new initiative through active participation throughout the workshop, and afterwards ensures the implementation of what is learnt. 

His words, "I would like to extend our warm welcome to the delegates of the International Maritime Organization, the Maritime Technology Cooperation Center, to Nigeria. 

"The workshop is one of the regional demonstration projects to which the IMO, in collaboration with MGCC, intends to build capacity on the management and mitigation of the environmental risks associated with the transfer of invasive species.

"Ladies and gentlemen, I call on you to support this new initiative through our active participation throughout the workshop, and afterwards by ensuring that we implement what we learn here," he added. 

While Comoros, Kenya, Mauritius, Malta, Somalia and Djibouti, are among African Countries that participated at the training, other stakeholders in the maritime sector who graced the Occasion include -  Nigerian Alternate Permanent Representative of the IMO, Dr. Abdul Dirusu, President of WIMA Africa, Rollens Macfoy, Commissioner for Lans and Environment, Ebonyi State, Secretary General of the African Shipowners Association, Funmi Folorunso; Fellow Rochelle Carters, the Admiral Superintendent of the Naval Dockyard Limited, Victoria Island, Lagos, represented by OEA Ezele, among others.

Customs: Eastern Marine Command Strengthens Relationship with Stakeholders to Facilitate International Trade in South- South Waterways

 ...Seizes Tusks, Pangolin Scales, Other illegal items worth ₦680.3M DPV

ZAINAB JUNAID

As part of the commitment to facilitate international trade and ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements, the Eastern Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, Port Harcourt, held a  productive stakeholders engagement parley with ship owners, agents and key stakeholders from the maritime sector.

The meeting which was held at the Command’s Headquarter, Port Harcourt, was organised by the Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Mike Ugbagu to discuss and streamline the process of carrying out proper documentation of temporary importation papers, thereby enhancing the ease of doing business in the maritime industry in the South-South waterways. 

According to the Public Relations Officer of the Command, NE Tangwa, ship owners, agents and representatives from various maritime enterprises actively participated in the discussions, sharing their experiences, challenges and valuable insights.

The event served as a platform for open dialogue and constructive engagement, allowing stakeholders to address common issues and propose practical solutions for improving the documentation process of temporary importation papers.

 The stakeholders on their part appreciated the development for such parley has not been held for a long time in the command.

Meanwhile, the Command also made a significant breakthrough in combatting wildlife trafficking by intercepting a substantial quantity of Pangolin scales, Elephant tusks and sacks of used second hand shoes. 

Tangwa disclosed in a statement that the seizures took place in the South-South coastal water-ways along Ibaka-Bakasi beach highlighting Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the Convention on International Trade In Endangered Species of Wild Fauna And Flora (CITES). 

The operation led by diligent officers of the command, resulted in the confiscation of a pangolin scales and elephant tusks weighing 365.4 kg and six large sacks of used second hand shoes with a total Duty Paid Value (DPV) of Six Hundred And Eighty Million, Two Hundred And Ninety Thousand, Four Hundred Naira Only (₦680,290,400.00) which are highly sought-after in illegal international markets.

Speaking on the seizures, Comptroller Mike Ugbagu said the seizure of the pangolins scales and elephant tusks underscores the urgent need for concerted global efforts to combat wildlife trafficking as these heinous activities not only endanger vulnerable species but also contribute to organize crime and illicit financial flows. 

He noted that Nigeria, as a responsible member of the international community, remains steadfast in its commitment to combating wildlife trafficking and preserving its rich biodiversity. 

The Controller appreciated the management of the Nigeria Customs Service for deploying gunboats and logistic boats to the command, emphasizing how the additional resources greatly enhanced the commands ability to patrol and secure the south-south coatsal waterways effectively and combing the beaches effectively. 

He thus reiterated his commitment to provide officers with the necessary tools and support needed to safeguard the Nations natural resources/habitats. 

"The Eastern Marine Command under my watch will continue to intensify its efforts in combating wildlife trafficking and protecting Nigeria’s natural heritage as this seizure of pangolin scales and elephant tusks sends a strong message to wildlife traffickers in the area that their activities will not be tolerated and will face severe consequences for their illegal activities if caught. 

"It should be noted that Nigeria customs service is a government agency responsible for facilitating legitimate trade, enforcing customs laws and combating illicit activities, including wildlife trafficking. The Customs Area Controller has reinvigorated and strengthened the patrol teams along the waterways for a 24hours patrol and combing the beaches. This has yielded positive outcomes and leading to the significant seizure the command has just made."

While commending his officers for their dedication and professionalism in executing this operation, the Area Controller enjoined the general public to assist the command with more useful information on the trade of illicit wildlife.

 "The successful seizure of these wildlife products showcased the effectiveness of collaborative efforts between the enforcement agencies which the Customs Area Controller sought for with the Nigerian Navy and other agencies operating along the waterways of Ibaka-Bakasi beach in curbing the illegal wildlife trade and other forms of smuggling," he said.

APFFLON Bemoans State of Onne Port Access Road

... Urges FG to Expidite its Repair

ZAINAB JUNAID 

The African Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON), has called on the Federal Government to expedite action towards rehabilitation of the Onne Port access road which he described as an eye sore

National President of the Association, Otunba Frank Ogunojemite, made the call during the inauguration of the Association's Executives on Thursday at Onne, Port Harcourt.

Ogunojemite said "We are using this opportunity to appeal to the Federal Government to accelerate the repair of the road leading to the port. The access road is an eye sore and has been an impediment to ease of doing business, not only to port users, but also to the farmers and people living within the community."

In an interview with Maritime Journalists Association of Nigeria( MAJAN), the APFFLON President noted that there is need to monitor the contractor handling the rehabilitation of the road in order to FasTrack its process.

He said in order not to impede movement of goods and people during the period of rehabilitation, alternative road need to be provided to ameliorate the inconveniences both port users and the community would experience during this period.

"So we are asking the government to fastrack the road construction, monitor the contractors, provide an alternative link road, not only for the port users, but also the host community, particularly the farmers," Ogunojemite stated.

He noted that the road is very important as it serves as transit path to Uyo and other areas and most importantly, it is the access road through which farmers move out their produce. 

The Association, after the inauguration paid a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Onne Port Commad, ACG B. Immam, and engaged in a robust discussion particularly on trade facilitator,revenue and export trade with him.

Fielding questions on activities going on in Onne Port, Ogunojemite expressed satisfaction saying he is impressed with the ongoing activities in the Port but appealed to Government to help reshape the deplorable state of infrastructure, the access road especially. 

His words, "Despite having only one scanner, the port is actually living up to expectation.  The thing that is lacking in Onne port is infrastructure. If truck break down, it is difficult to remove it, and this affects the time goods are moved from the port to the town. Government should help hasten the repair of the dilapidated infrastructure, provide more scanners in the Port."

Thousands of Containers of Cars Rot Away at APMT- Investigation

Thousands of Containers of Cars Trapped at APMT- Investigation 

ZAINAB JUNAID

Just as research reveals that thousands of Containers of Cars and other Cargoes are currently trapped at APM Terminal, the National Coordinator, 100 Percent Compliance, National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders, (NAGAFF) Alh. Ibrahim Tanko has alleged that the abandoned Cargoes in the Port and Terminal are deliberately not being moved to government Warehouse.

Alhaji Tanko made the allegations on Thursday in Apapa saying the Cargoes are only occupying spaces in the ports yet the  Nigerian Ports Authority(NPA) constantly complain of non availability of space. " Why are they not being moved, why are these terminals holding unto these Cargoes and complaining of lack of space, the overtime cargoes must be released to government Warehouse," Tanko said.

Meanwhile an earlier investigation revealed that APM Terminal has over 9000 overtime Containers and other Cargoes rotten away in the terminal, while they complain of lack of space but are comfortable storing overtime cargoes. "Why are they not willing to transfer them to government Warehouse, they give all manner of excuses when prompted to transfer these Cargoes, they complain about lack of barges and others," a source said. 

Continuing, "There are vested interests at APMT which makes them think they are larger than life itself, refusing to obey regulatory Authorities and rules of engagement. This can only happen in  Nigeria," the source lamented.

On the arbitrary increments of charges by terminal operators, Alhaji Tanko said the Shippers' Council brokered peace between Freight Forwarders and Terminal Operators, which led to a reduction of charges from 600 percent increment down to 400 percent.

He explained that from all indications, it was a remarkable achievement. "Even though we didn't get all we wanted but we got a 400 percent, a reduction from the 600 percent which was almost forced down our throats, half bread is better than nothing; 400 percent, 3-5 days waiver and the container must be there before the 5 days starts counting. We also were able to extract from them that the debit Note is reversible and for those who paid before this reduction, they must be re-funded."

However, Tanko noted he has not confirmed if Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria(STOAN) has started implementing the new charges as at Wednesday, " if we notice that they are not implementing, we shall take our protest terminal by terminal to ensure that we get it done."

"Though some Freight Forwarders do not agree to this reduction, as they feel it is not enough but I will appeal to all of them to give peace a chance and thrust the leaders to ensure that their interests are protected. I want to appeal to some of our members who feel we didn't get it right to understand that for 11years, the Terminal Operators have not increased these changes, things have changed, the cost of doing business has gone up, forex, the exchange rate is killing everyone, therefore I think there is need for some increment to also help cushion the effect of these changes," Tanko stated.

Couple with the afore mentioned is the issue of demurrage which is stifling our businesses, "that is why we appealed for a 5 day window, let's start from somewhere as negotiations progress. We did this in the best interest of all, everyone has the right to say what they want but someone has to push it through, it took us to do this and I know how much effort we put in and no matter what, we deserve a part on the back, thank you is not too much, they should understand with us," he pleaded.

On whether the recent appointment of a new Executive Secretary/ Chief Executive Officer for the Nigerian Shippers'Council will affect the negotiation, Tanko said," the ES lost his job yesterday and a new one appointed in his place. Well it is "Soldier go, Soldier come" and you know what they say, barracks remain. It is a continuous process, so long as governance is concerned, it is Shippers'Council and no matter who sits there, it will be implemented, so long as he's a Nigerian with the interest of Nigerians. I believe he was brought in to assuage the situation and not to aggravate it," He enthused.

Customs Strengthens Ties with Traditional Rulers in Oyo/Osun States

Customs Strengthens Ties with Traditional Rulers in Oyo/Osun States 

ZAINAB JUNAID 

In line with the directive of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, that all Commands must continue to strengthen relationships with host Communities, promote mutual understanding, cooperation and mitigate conflict between members of respective communities and Officers of Commands, Customs Area Controller of Oyo/Osun Area Command, Dr. Ben Oramalugo has embarked on a familiarization visit to Outstations in Border towns/areas of Oyo and Osun States. 

He paid homage to the Soun of Ogbomoso land, the Okere of Saki land both in Oyo State; the Ataoja of Osogbo land, the Ogunsua of Modakeke land and the Ooni of Ife land all in Osun State.  

While engaging the traditional rulers on issues related to trade facilitation, revenue generation, community development, suppression of smuggling and promotion of lawful trade practices, the Comptroller emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and Traditional Rulers for effective implementation of Federal Government policies and regulations which are to be enforced by the Command.

He expressed gratitude for the warmth reception received and noted that the engagement is an avenue for respective Traditional Rulers to share their invaluable insights and experiences regarding Custom which affect their respective communities. 

"This visit aimed at promoting harmonious relationship between Nigeria Customs Service and the Citizens it serves," he said. 

Recognizing the vital role of traditional rulers as custodians of culture and leaders of their respective community, Comptroller Oramalugo, stated that the visit also aimed at increasing understanding, creating awareness about Customs operations, regulations and the importance of compliance amongst the respective host communities.  

He underscored the commitment of the Service to promote trade facilitation, combat smuggling of contraband items, arms and ammunitions and hard drugs and enhance revenue generation through the enforcement of laws and regulations. 

He further sought their support in achieving his objectives and expressed optimism for future collaboration and partnership with the respective traditional Rulers in Oyo and Osun states.

The Traditional Rulers on their parts, expressed appreciation for the Controller's visit and opportunity given to engage directly with the Area Controller and his management team. 

They acknowledged the significance of Customs operations in maintaining national security, economic stability and welfare of their communities, and assured the Controller and his entourage of their commitment to strengthen collaboration with the Command in order to promote legal trade activities and combat illicit trade practices within their respective domains. 

Inadequate Legislation and Regulations of Ports Nosedived the Sector' - Segun Musa

'Inadequate Legislation and Regulations of Ports Nosedived maritime Sector' -  Dr. Segun Musa

-Calls for Integrated Framework to Sustain the Blue Economy 

ZAINAB JUNAID

The Publisher, Global Transport Policy, Dr. Segun Musa has identified political compensation appointments experienced at Nigerian ports as a major factor mitigating the maritme sector and needs to be rectified. 

Speaking at the 8th anniversary celebration of National Pathfinder and Public Lecture held in Lagos on Thursday, Dr. Musa who was once a Lagos State gubernatorial candidate in 2019 under Advanced National Democratic Party(ANDP) bewailed the idea of using the maritime sector to compensate politicians, saying it has nosedived the sector. 

"The industry is a critical sector that needs master mariner, professionals to be at its helms not political compensation appointees that have limited knowledge about the sector. This is killing the Ports, it doesn't encourage enough trainings and more skills are diminished within a short confine. Inorder to be able to harness the potentials within the system, there is need to start doing things right. If a master mariner is appointed as the minister, the sector will thrive."

"For example, when we realized the congestion in the port, we thought of a way to bycot inland container depot which can be achievable through rail. We start emphasizing for rail development and when the opportunity came to start connecting our port to the rail lines, to the industry through the rail, the government rather connected passenger coaches which we never deficit for. With the huge loans collected, how will passengers pay back. It is only cargo that can pay the loans and they did not make coaches for cargoes available, except for the few they just started experimenting lately. Whereas everything they supposed to start with should have been coaches to carry cargo and freight since the commencement of the raill project under Obasanjo administration,"

He bemoaned the loss accrued as a result of having inexperienced ministers at the relms of the industry and the impact on port congestion, which could have been avoided through Cargo coaches on rail corridor. 

Giving reasons for the creation of marine and blue economy, he said the component is to give major actors in the industry, an insight to know the potentials that have not been harnessed properly. 

The freight forwarder doyen, who has spent over three decades in the industry opined that an inclusive policy framework will help harness the potentials within the blue economy which will result to advance economy. 

He called on government to ensure holistic automation of the Port, enabling environment for both public and private investments, encourage local community engagement and deplo open market policies that will not endangered or frustrate private investors out of business. 

Also speaking at the interactive session held in Rockview Hotel, Prince Olayiwola Shittu JP, CEO/Chairman Skellas Group, who was represented by Dr. Pius Ujubuonu buttressed Dr. Musa's point adding that government should encourage appointment of professionals to strategic positions in the sector that will help move the industry forward. 

Chief Chukwu Osita Patrick, National Coordinator, Save Nigeria Freight Forwarders Importers and Exporters Coalition also maintained that government need to be more proactive in dealing with critical sectors as transport especially in a area of policies that will drive the industry towards achieving its objectives. 

In their goodwill messages, they appreciated the Organiser for his initiative and encouraged him not to relent his efforts in organizing Roundtable discussions as this that will help foster activities within port environment and also move industry forward. 

However, in his welcome address, Nze livinus Onwugbolu, Publisher of Pathfinder and also Organiser of the event themed "Blue Economy - the need to reposition Nigeria's Maritime Industry to Drive National Economic Development" expressed gratitude for the actualization of the event and turn out of stakeholders but remarked that for Nigeria to enjoy the benefits of the inherent blue economy, there is need to reposition the maritme industry. 

He noted that the essence of the blue economy is to properly harness the Nigeria Maritime potentials in the quest for repositioning the economy. "The sector holds potentials that has not been fully utilized. Without repositioning the industry, I don't think it will be able to play the role it is expected to play," he stressed. 

Nigeria Customs Repels Attack on its Facility in Geidam, Yobe State

 Mourns Fallen Hero

ZAINAB JUNAID 

In a valiant stand against suspected Boko Haram insurgents, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), with timely reinforcement from the Nigerian Army, foiled an attack on the Customs Office in Geidam town, Yobe State, demonstrating unwavering courage and resilience against the enemies of the state. 

National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Abdullahi Maiwada disclosed this in a statement on Sunday adding that the Customs Office faced a formidable threat but was bravely defended, the facility and the families of fellow officers and men were safeguarded.

During the harrowing encounter, Assistant Superintendent of Customs II Ahmed Usman, born on April 2, 1983, and a dedicated NCS member since February 24, 2009, tragically paid the ultimate sacrifice. He hailed from Pindiga Town, Akko Local Government Area in Gombe State, leaving behind a grieving wife and five children, three boys and two girls.

The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, alongside the entire NCS fraternity, extends heartfelt condolences to the family of ASC II Ahmed Usman, the NCS Borno/Yobe Area Command, and the Government of Gombe State for the loss of this heroic and devoted individual in the line of duty.

Furthermore, the CGC expressed gratitude for the unwavering solidarity and cooperation extended to the NCS by the Nigerian Army, Sister Agencies, and the good people of Yobe State under the leadership of His Excellency Mai Mala Buni, the Executive Governor. 

He emphasized the crucial role of community engagement in the shared pursuit of safety and security, urging all citizens to contribute to these collective endeavors actively.

In memory of ASC II Ahmed Usman and the face of adversity, the Nigeria Customs Service stands strong, resolute, and united, ensuring the safety and security of the nation's borders.