NCS Board confirms appointment of 2ACGs, approves promotion of 2209 Senior Officers

....as DC Hussein K Ejibunu of FOU among 67 DCs promoted to Customs Comptroller 

ZAINAB JUNAID 

In recognition of the exceptional performance of Officers and Men of the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS) in the 2023 promotion examination, NCS Board during its 58th regular meeting held on Tuesday, 19 December 2023, at the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters, chaired by the Honorable Minister of Finance, Mr. Wale Edun, has confirmed the appointment of two (2) Assistant Comptrollers General and the promotion of Two Thousand Two Hundred and Nine (2209) Senior Officers. 

National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Chief Supretendent of Customs (CSC) Abdullahi Maiwada, disclosed this on Friday December 22, 2023, in a statement revealing that the appointed officers confirmed as substantive members of the NCS Management Team are ACG Florence Nano Ogar-Modey and ACG Queen Ogubudu.

The comprehensive promotion list, according to the statement encompasses both General Duty (GD) and Support Staff (SS) personnel who demonstrated outstanding performance in the 2023 promotion exercise. The breakdown of promoted officers is as follows: Inspector of Customs (IC) to Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASC II) - 348, ASC II to ASC I - 321, ASC I to Deputy Superintendent of Customs (DSC) - 355, DSC to Superintendent of Customs (SC) - 207, SC to Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) - 500, CSC to Assistant Comptroller (AC) - 333, AC to Deputy Comptroller (DC) - 78, and DC to Customs Comptroller (CC) - 67.

"The board approved special promotions for fourteen officers in recognition of their exceptional performance in various assigned responsibilities.

"Among the newly promoted Comptrollers are TM Daniyan, F Fajana, N Isyaku, MV Umana, AC Nwobi, F Abdulqadir, HK Ejibunu, FM Ojiofor, IN Aliyu, MD Malah, EO Oshoba, JK Oladeji, E Luka, AP Daruaku, FM Ojeifor, IN Nwokorie, EJ Harrison and others," the statement revealed.

While congratulating the newly promoted Officers and Men of the Service, Comptroller-General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR urged them to redouble their efforts in fulfilling the critical roles of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and suppression of smuggling, adding "this will enhance the NCS's pivotal role in bolstering Nigeria's socio-economic well-being."

He also extended warm wishes for joyous Christmas and New Year celebrations and expressed gratitude to the Honorable Minister of Finance for facilitating the timely conclusion of the 2023 promotion cycle.

The CGC further acknowledged the historical success, pledging to maintain the momentum in future exercises. 

"These strategic advancements are in harmony with his vision to fortify leadership, recognize merit, and inspire personnel for sustained success," he said.

NIMASA Partners NSML to train 150 NSDP Cadets

  ....as 50 cadets were inducted for CoC training, examinations.

ZAINAB JUNAID 

"The training aimed at addressing the dearth of Nigerian seafarers on ocean going vessels and the need to meet indigenous manning requirements in Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage)."

In a bid to facilitate Certificate of Competency(CoC) examinations for beneficiaries of the Nigerian Seafarers Development Program (NSDP), the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has signed a training agreement with the Nigerian Liquified Natural Gas, NLNG Ship Management Limited, NSML

The NSDP is a sponsored intervention programme being implemented by NIMASA to grow capacity of young Nigerians to be certified as seafarers with global recognition and acceptance, thus bridging the gap in the dearth of seafarers globally; while the CoC examination is the final stage of the NSDP training, culminating in the acquisition of the CoC license which potentially opens the doors of global employment opportunities for the cadets.

Speaking at an induction ceremony by NSML for 50 of NIMASA’s Romanian trained NSDP beneficiaries , the NIMASA Director General, Dr Bashir Jamoh OFR, highlighted the success of the collaboration between both parties in fostering the development of Nigerian seafarers.

Jamoh who was represented by the Agency’s Director Special Duties, Isichei Osamgbi, expressed appreciation to NSML for their leadership and vision in partnering the Agency to support the development of seafarers and promotion of our local content onboard their vessels.

To him, “It is worthy of note that a good number of NSDP Officers trained onboard NSML vessels are now employed by the company. Today, we are proud to announce that 150 Romanian-trained NSDP cadets have concluded their mandatory onboard sea training and are ready to proceed for the Certificate of Competency (CoC) training and examinations. The signing of this Training Agreement between both parties resulting in the commencement of CoC for the first batch of Romanian trained cadets, will go a long way in ensuring all backlogs of cadets awaiting CoCs are cleared”. 

He urged other organizations in the industry to take a cue from NSML and give opportunities to aspiring Nigerian seafarers to acquire knowledge and gain experiences to excel in the field.

Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, charged the lucky Cadets to be worthy ambassadors of Nigeria.

Dr. Ajani who was also represented by Mrs. Ekanem Saila, a Deputy Director from the Ministry emphasized that the collaboration between NIMASA and NSML was a welcome development likewise the outcome of discussions which have been on for some time.

On his part, the Managing Director/CEO of NSML, Abdulkadir Ahmed, said the organisation is sponsoring 50 of the cadets to the South Shield Marine School in the UK for a 12 month programme to get their certificates of competency required to trade on vessels globally.

R-L: Deputy Director, Maritime Labour Services, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Aliyu Lawan; Ag. Head Maritime Labour Services, NIMASA, Yetunde Collins; Director, Special Duties,NIMASA, Isichei Osamgbi; Deputy Director Cabotage & Shipping Development, Federal Ministry of Marine & Blue Economy, Mrs Ekanem Selia, and Managing Director/CEO NLNG Ship Management Limited, NSML, Abdulkadir Ahmed during the Induction Ceremony by NSML for 50 of NIMASA's Romanian trained NSDP beneficiaries in Lagos.

He said this is aimed at addressing the dearth of Nigerian seafarers on ocean going vessels and the need to meet indigenous manning requirements in Coastal and Inland Shipping (Cabotage).

He stated that the training programme in the UK is the gold standard in maritime training, noting that with the certificate of competencies, the cadets will become qualified seafarers and work on any vessel globally.

“So our support here is really in coordinating and ensuring we actually support these cadets back to back because the goal is to ensure they come out with good Certificates of Competency and to ensure they have a career in the global shipping marine sector,” he stated.

Ahmed also noted that, with the emerging transition in the shipping and maritime industry, such as in energy and decarbonisation, which requires bringing in new technologies, it is important that seafarers continue to upgrade their skill sets and train on new technologies to be abreast of new developments.

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.

 

 

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.