Leadership Tussle between MWUN and UKAUMMUNNA ends as the duo reunite

ZAINAB JUNAID

  Comrade Adeyanju presenting Award of Leadership to PG Emeritus, Comrade Ukaummunna to him, a plaque given to him on DOCKWORKERS DAY celebration alongside other Veterans in the Maritime Sect.

The leadership tussle that engulfed Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria(MWUN) and it's founding Father- Comrade Uzoije Ukaummunna which resulted in a face-off and lasted for 23 years came to an end as the Union's executives led by Comrade (Prince) Dr. Adewale Adeyanju, fnli, reunite with the former President-General.

Comrade Adeyanju who doubles as the Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), along with his entire executives on Wednesday, December 20, 2023, engaged in an accord party with the founding father, Comrade Uzoije Ukaummunna, whose dynamic quality of leadership acumen cannot be overemphasized.

Prince Adeyanju, during the accord event threw the entire premises of the former President - General into a presidential ceremony,  praised Ukaummunna for his doggedness, resilience with sheer tolerance during the turbulent period. 

The Union's President General also described Ukaummunna as a Workaholic Founding Father of noteworthy who contributed greatly in the merger of four unions in 1996, and whose vein runs with milk of meekness. 

According to a statement made available by Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna, Head of Media MWUN, on Thursday, PG Adeyanju stressed that the former President-General's  generosity is unquantifiable as he brought a lot of innovations to the Union as its first President - General.

"It is on record that Comrade Uzoije purchased the property in Abuja that is today known as Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria Annex.  This is one amongst the numerous legacies he left behind. And we are proud to say that he is our Pioneer President-General."

During the colourful peace meeting,  Comrade Uzoije in company of his wife appreciated Prince Adeyanju for breaking the jinx that has held a father and children bound. 

They commended members of the Union for resolving the dispute that lasted for 23years and prayed Comrade Ukaummunna be forgiven as 'to err is human and to forgive is divine.'

Dr Adeyanju also prayed for both couple, wishing them a happy life in good health enmeshed in longevity.

"The PG Emeritus' labour for the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria will never go in vain as the Union has resolved to rehabilitate and return him to the fold of the Union alongside other former Presidents - General," he said.

 

 

Finance Minister outlines three-fold vision for Customs

... to redefine nation's economic landscape

 ZAINAB JUNAID

Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun FCS, has outlined a three-fold vision aimed at redefining the nation's economic landscape.

Presiding over the inaugural meeting of the Nigeria Customs Service Board held at Customs Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday, December 19 2023, the minister stressed that the outline is to reshape the future of trade, revenue, and economic vitality in Nigeria.

As the Board Chairman of NCS, the Finance Minister articulated his commitment to elevating government revenue, fortifying critical spending in infrastructure and social services, and navigating the intricate realms of macroeconomic reform.

He declared, "Today marks a pivotal moment in our pursuit of economic resilience, and we are seeking substantial augmentation of government funds to propel crucial initiatives, ensuring that the wheels of progress turn unhindered."

According to him, his vision extended beyond mere revenue generation, expressing a commitment to fostering an environment where every citizen experiences the tangible benefits of economic prosperity. He spoke passionately about measures to provide affordable transportation, ensure food security, and alleviate the burdens of everyday life for the Nigerian populace.

“The President will be briefed comprehensively on our vision to lower the cost of living for Nigerians through making rich efforts to facilitate trade and boost our economy. We aim to implement measures that not only ease financial burdens but also elevate the living standards for every citizen,” he asserted.

The highlight of the his address further centered around the commitment to collaborate seamlessly with the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, in facilitating smoother trade as he envisioned a landscape where trade procedures would undergo a metamorphosis characterized by efficiency, speed, and a commitment to international best practices.

"We are on the verge of transformative change in trade facilitation. Our commitment is unwavering, and we are poised to implement the National Single Window project—a community-driven initiative that promises to revolutionize Customs procedures," the Minister declared with conviction.

Explaining the significance of the National Single Window project, the Minister highlighted its role in modernization, automating processes, and ensuring electronic transmission of information and data across payment stakeholders. According to the Minister, this initiative is not just a technological upgrade but a strategic move to bolster Customs and revenue, thereby becoming a key contributor to the nation's economic growth.

The Minister's visionary address resonated through the corridors of the Nigeria Customs Service, signaling a new dawn for Nigeria, painted with hues of economic prosperity, social upliftment, and a commitment to excellence.

MAJAN Condemns Incessant Attacks On Customs Officers

...says video reveals smugglers die -hard tendencies, with violent attack on officers

ZAINAB JUNAID

The maritime Journalists Association of Nigeria (MAJAN), has condemned Incessant attacks on Customs officers carrying out their statutory duties.

Frank Odinukaeze Odinukaeze, the Association's Public Relations Officer disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday December 19, 2023, after watching the viral video at its secretariat at Apapa, Lagos.

He said in the process of reviewing the viral video showing sporadic shooting by officers, it revealed clearly smugglers die- hard tendencies with violent attack on officers, who were carrying out their anti-smuggling function.

"MAJAN Executive observed that the smugglers were the first to attack the officers, closing up on them, while the officers shut into the air, trying to defend themselves from the dreaded smugglers, who came out in large numbers to attack them.

"The group also observed that while the smugglers directed their attack on officers, in a deliberate attempt to disarm them, the officers only shut into the air, in order to escape from the scene,and this shows high level of professionalism and character.

MAJAN as an association condemns  in strong terms recurring attacks on officers by economic saboteurs, working against the policy of the Federal Government in growing the nation’s economy. "A situation where smugglers deliberately attack officers on lawful duty is totally unacceptable. The culprits involved in this attack must be arrested and prosecuted, to serve as deterrent to others", the association frowned.

"We must realise that Customs officers are Nigerians like other citizens with a right to life. As such, their fundamental human right must be respected at all times.

"We equally condemn the act of Smuggling which is doing damage to the economy and overall well being of Nigerians," Frank added.

Customs Partners Cooperative Mortgage Bank on 5,009 Housing Units for Officers Nationwide

As part of the vision to create a better conducive housing scheme for Officers and Men of the Nigeria Customs Service, the Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR reveals that the service is partnering with the Cooperative Mortgage Bank in constructing a total of five thousand and nine housing units nationwide.

ZAINAB JUNAID

The CGC revealed this on the 18th December at the Pacesetter Garden Estate, Ajoda Ibadan, Oyo State, in the company of the National President of Customs Officers Wives Association (COWA), Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, DCG Festus Okun, DCG Greg Itotoh, ACG Aliu Olaniyi Alajogun, ACG Bello Jibo and a host of other Senior Officers.

CGC Adeniyi acknowledged the scheme's impact on Officers and families, especially in boosting their work morale effectively and efficiently.

"The Service is providing temporary relief through staff quarters, but concerns persist regarding retirement and subsequent vacation from these quarters.

"To establish a sustainable housing solution, a strategic partnership has been formed with the Cooperative Mortgage Bank (CMB). This collaboration aims to construct 5, 009 Housing Units nationwide, providing a stable foundation for Officers and empowering them to invest in their families and futures, ultimately enhancing their effectiveness in serving the nation." He stated

According to him, the housing scheme features diverse residences, including two-bedroom terrace bungalows and three-bedroom terrace duplexes, strategically located in Lagos, Kaduna, Kano, Asaba, Masaka, Ibadan, Port Harcourt, and Abuja.

The CGC expressed gratitude to the Cooperative Mortgage Bank, Modern Shelter, and Brains & Hammers for their collaboration in this flagship housing program.

President of the Cooperative Association of Nigeria, Tajudeen Aiyeola, urged State Governors and Ministers at the national level to take deliberate actions in providing low-cost housing for Nigerian citizens.

He emphasized that achieving substantial provision for affordable housing is possible with government interest, encouraging local production of housing materials, cost reduction, and facilitating access to work-based loans.

Aiyeola stressed the need for government support and subsidies to benefit Nigerian citizens.

Highlighting the importance of the cooperative sector, Aiyeola noted its significance in various human endeavours, extending from the national level to its affiliates.

He said the cooperative structure is a crucial instrument for the government to implement social and economic programs aimed at the welfare of Nigerians.

While addressing the Comptroller-General of Customs, Aiyeola commended the uncommon initiative, emphasizing the eradication of poverty in Nigeria by prioritizing the middle and lower classes.

He called for collective efforts from the government, governmental parastatals, agencies, and the private sector to focus on member welfare and reduce turnaround time in Nigeria.

Aiyeola urged all agencies in Nigeria to follow suit, commending the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for initiating programs that benefit the people.

Representing the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, the Special Assistant to the governor, stated that this initiative will contribute to the state's economic development, aligning with his commitment to providing housing and other developmental projects.

He commended the Comptroller-General of Customs for this endeavour and urged everyone to support it, emphasizing its potential to boost the state's economy and provide value to Nigerian agencies.

The event ended with the presentation of housing documents to respective recipients, group photographs with various groups of stakeholders present at the event, and a tour of the various types of One bedroom bungalows,  two-bedroom semi-detached bungalows three-bedroom semi-detached and detached bungalows and four-bedroom bungalow.

Sporadic Shooting: Ogun 1 Customs Defends Viral Video,

says action on Defense moves

ZAINAB JUNAID

Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has defended the viral video depicting sporadic shootings by operatives of its Command, saying action was on defense moves.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Supretendent of Customs(SC)Ahmed Bukoye Oloyede, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday December 19, 2023, saying operatives of the Command while evacuating some smuggled goods from two faulty vehicles used as means of conveyance, came under attack by hoodlums who were suspected to have been mobilized by the smugglers of the unwholesome goods and had to retaliate in order to protect but safeguard themselves.

According to the statement, “On Saturday, 16th of December, 2023, along the Lanfewa/Enu gada axis of Ogun State, the operatives of Ogun 1 Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, operatives of the Command while evacuating some smuggled goods from 2 faulty vehicles used as means of conveyance, came under attack by hoodlums who were suspected to have been mobilized by the smugglers of the unwholesome goods.

“The seriousness of the attack and the threat to officers' lives led to a call for reinforcement. During the melee that ensued at about 0715 hours of that day, our operatives repelled the attack to safeguard their lives. They left the scene with the secured seizure and prevented the hoodlums from further attack till they finally exited the area. The seizure was successfully conveyed to the Government Warehouse at Customs House, Abeokuta, without any casualty.

I would like to state emphatically that the Command under the leadership of the Ag. Customs Area Controller Ahmadu Shuaibu values the lives of its host communities and frowns at the arbitrary use of firearms. However, in situations with a severe threat to life, the rules of engagement must be evoked for self-protection.

“The Command regrets the compelling and unfortunate situation that might have put the residents of the said axis and the general public in fear. While carrying out our lawful duty, we shall not renege in our effort to ensure the safety of the good people of Ogun State. Our operatives shall continue to operate within the ambit of the law and in conformity with the rules of engagement.

“It is pertinent to inform you that the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023 frowns at obstruction, molestation, or assaults of officers on lawful duty, with the infliction of punishment on offenders such as conviction to a fine of five million Naira, and imprisonment for 5 years or both. Also, Section 226 of the NCSA empowers Customs operatives to carry out patrols freely, which applies to our anti-smuggling operations in Ogun State,” the statement partly read.

 

Customs, Stakeholders Strategize on enhancing service delivery,

 Clearance Processes in Ports across the Country 

ZAINAB JUNAID

The Comptroller-General of Customs,  Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, held a roundtable interactive session with maritime and excise stakeholders to devise a lasting solution to issues facing clearance processes in ports across the Country.

The meeting, which was part of activities in the just concluded CGC's Conference, 2023 was held last Friday.

It was attended by senior serving and retired Customs Officers, Terminal Operators, Freight Forwarders, Licensed Customs Agents, and Representatives of Excise Stakeholders, among others, to create a platform for interaction and identify the way forward to better Customs operations.

CGC Adewale Adeniyi clarified that concerns such as multiple alerts, frequent downtime of CPC, numerous checkpoints, and difficulty accessing ports, among others, have been established in previous meetings as the next phase is to set time-bound solutions.

In his words, “Issues have been openly discussed. The main ones facing cargo clearance will be addressed by collaborating with key stakeholders on building a framework for the way forward to these outlined hurdles."

"There will be a commitment to the creation and implementation of new policies that are in line with decisions that are taken today, and these approaches will be timebound to ensure we achieve the wanted objective soon," he said.

A panel was set up encompassing representatives of stakeholders and the Nigeria Customs Service to address the concerns hindering effective port operations and achieve cumulative recommendations, which will be carried out by 1st quarter of 2024.

Comptroller Dera Nnadi, who was part of the panelists, encouraged port users and stakeholders to optimize weekend operations; he also encouraged the use of barge without making it a commercial process.

Stakeholders appreciated the CGC for bringing back the Services' Annual Conference while expressing readiness to always work with Customs.

The President of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Tochukwu Ezeisi, said, for the first time in years, freight forwarders are happy because "our issues are being discussed and decisions are taken immediately.”

“CGC Adewale has shown seriousness in achieving his three-point agenda by bringing back this Conference, which is an avenue to listen to stakeholders, and we are ready to always work with the Service.” He added.

Alhaji Kazeem Isa Adua, the Deputy President of the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), stated, "The CGC has done well in organizing this Conference and with the positive body language seen today. We should expect smooth and optimized clearance process soon”.

Ejiro & Kevwe win AMJON 'Young Entertainers Award'

ZAINAB JUNAID 

As part of the vision to encouraging and promoting young talents, Ejiro and kevwe Sese Atina have been awarded the prestigious 'Young Entertainers Award' at the just concluded Association of Maritime Journalists of Nigeria (AMJON) 2023 annual Conference and Awards.

The award is coming barely a month the duo performed at the Indian festival called Diwali aboard a Motor Tanker vessel in Lagos.

Speaking shortly after receiving the award, the duo commended organisers of the event saying they are people with eyes for young talents.

According to Kevwe, the nature of their music attracts mostly the elites as the jazz music is for the matured minds.

Kevwe further enjoined stakeholders from the maritime industry to continue supporting them either by advice or musical exposure.

"I Thank God for making this award to happen. I also want to thank my jazz fans for the support.

"I want to thank the two unions that made us to explore the maritime industry in the area of entertainment which I believe paved the way for this award.

"I want to also thank my father and mother for their immense support towards ensuring that we prosper in the musical journey," he said.

On his part, Ejiro thanked organizers of the award for honouring them adding that the appreciation will not be complete without commending their parents.

The event which was held on Thursday, December 14, 2023 in Lagos also honoured eleven other distinguished personalities and marine company for their immense contributions to nation building.

The AMJON event had three paper presentations from government agencies from the maritime industry, even as stakeholders commended organisers of the event for honouring recipients cut across diverse industries.