The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Lagos focuses on food to drive growth

    Lagos focuses on food to drive growth

    The Lagos food sector is on a transformative path, emerging as a vital link between the nation’s agricultural abundance and its expanding consumer market, the Governor Sanwo-Olu  has said.

    According to him, the food market, is gaining momentum due to rising demand, advancements and strong policy support.

    Speaking in an interview during the Lagos Food Festival, the Governor,Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the government  was investing in the talent of its burgeoning culinary sector, viewing the food industry not merely as a cultural showcase but as a crucial engine for economic growth and youth empowerment.

    He   said the government was determined to use the Lagos Food   Festival  to professionalise the sector, create thousands of jobs, and cement Lagos’s status as the commercial and cultural epicentre of Africa.

    He noted that Lagos Food Festival, a major activity  of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems’ calendar,  now served as a vivid exhibition of the vision, pulling in entrepreneurs, families, and international visitors.

     The event, which showcases the state’s diverse food culture and provides a platform for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs),he  continued, is a tangible expression of the government’s comprehensive approach to food security and enterprise development.

    READ ALSO: Turaki-led PDP begs Nigerians for another chance

    Speaking on the administration’s resolve to harness the  creative industry, Sanwo-Olu, emphasised the broader economic impact. “This is more than just a festival; it is an economic strategy in action.We are creating a robust ecosystem where food entrepreneurs, particularly our smart, innovative young people, have the opportunity to thrive, to vend, and to transform their businesses. The spirit of Lagos is one of ingenuity, and we are channeling that into the food space.”

    Sanwo-Olu underscored the pivotal role of training and support in achieving the objective. “In line with our comprehensive agenda, we are fully committed to providing the necessary support—from financing to training—to ensure our culinary talent is world-class. When you see young people here at the festival, they are not just showing their talents; they are making money, demonstrating the spirit of innovation that is the very DNA of Lagos. We want Lagos to remain the home for all skills and professions.”

    According to him, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems has actively implemented interventions, including culinary competitions and agripreneurship programmes, to foster this environment.

    The Governor highlighted the dual benefit of these initiatives: showcasing Lagos’s cuisine as a form of cultural diplomacy while ensuring a stable and efficient food system.

    “Food security and sustainable economic transformation are at the heart of our plan,We are using food to tell the Lagos story, putting our various cuisines and dishes on display for the world to see and appreciate. Every successful young chef, every flourishing food vendor, is another victory for our economy, driving job creation and reinforcing Lagos as a national asset critical to Nigeria’s overall growth,”” Governor Sanwo-Olu added. “

    During the event,  Sanwo-Olu, participated in the cooking and tasting of seafood rice with stir-fry spinach.

    The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya noted that the  food sector holds immense transformative potential, both as a driver of economic growth and as a catalyst for inclusive development.

    As evolving consumer preferences and health-conscious choices reshape the  food system,  she  said the government was working  to reinforce the sector’s strategic importance in driving sustainable growth and meeting the rising demand for safe, nutritious and affordable food.

    She noted that the food festival represented one strategy of the government to focus on exploring the potential of the   country’s culinary ecosystem, preserve heritage dishes.

    According to her, the festival  helps to make Lagos a world-class tourist hub, and  food plays a central role. She  explained that  visitors  can  remember  the festival for its flavors, traditions, and dining experiences and that it’s about shaping an identity that connects with both locals and international guests.

    Through the festival, she indicated that Lagos was empowering the next generation of  chefs,adding that  culinary arts offer an exciting opportunity for young  Nigerians  to merge tradition with innovation.

    She continued that the festival has elevated  the state’s  culinary talent to serve as cultural ambassadors, connecting people through flavors and traditions.

  • Apapa Customs posts N2.64 trillion revenue, records 19.9% growth

    Apapa Customs posts N2.64 trillion revenue, records 19.9% growth

    The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), realised N2.635 trillion  between January and November this year, representing a growth of 19.9 per cent over the N2.2 trillion recorded in the corresponding period of 2024. This was driven by automation, compliance-led enforcement and closer collaboration across the port ecosystem.

    The figures, unveiled at the Command’s end-of-year stakeholders’ forum and awards night at Apapa Club by Customs Area Comptroller (CAC), Emmanuel Oshoba, underscored its position as Nigeria’s flagship port command, anchoring customs revenue, trade facilitation and supply-chain stability in the country’s busiest maritime corridor.

    Welcoming stakeholders, Oshoba, said the Command’s performance reflected reforms aligned with the vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, particularly on modernisation and ease of doing business.

    “From January to November 2025, the Apapa Area Command generated N2.635 trillion, representing a 19.9 per cent increase over the N2.2 trillion recorded in the same period in 2024.

    “This achievement reflects improved compliance, effective automation, robust monitoring and the dedication of our officers. Let me emphasise that our preference is compliance, not confrontation,” Oshoba said.

    He listed key initiatives driving the gains to include the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) Programme, the One-Stop Shop framework to cut duplication and delays, and deployment of the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS) to strengthen automation, risk management and revenue assurance.

    READ ALSO; Farouk Ahmed: A challenge for EFCC

    Oshoba also disclosed that the simulation of the newly installed scanner at APM Terminals on November 6, 2025, marked a major milestone in expanding non-intrusive inspection, a critical lever for faster cargo clearance and lower logistics costs.

    On enforcement, he said the Command recorded significant seizures of drugs, expired goods, arms and ammunition, achieved through intelligence-led operations and sustained inter-agency cooperation. He warned that while the command encourages honest declarations and strict adherence to extant laws, it would not hesitate to deal decisively with false declarations and other infractions.

    Representing the CGC, Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Mohammed Babandede, Zonal Coordinator, Zone A, said 2025 provided “cause to celebrate,” while urging stakeholders to deepen compliance as Customs fine-tunes its operations.

    “With your cooperation, we were able to achieve our target in 2025. The Service under the leadership of the CGC is passionate about trade facilitation, but we can only facilitate trade provided the integrity of declarations is high,” he said.

    He announced a sensitisation programme on the AEO scheme scheduled for Thursday at Continental Hotel, stressing that Customs expects stronger partnership with traders and agents in 2026.

    “In 2026, we should work together as partners, as brothers, so that it will be a good year for you, for us and for the Nigerian economy,” he added.

    In a goodwill message, Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Maritime Police Command, Chinedu Oko, reaffirmed security agencies’ commitment to safe port operations.

    He said: “It is only when we work together that we achieve our ends. Any time the Comptroller calls me on issues concerning my command, I respond positively. The Nigerian Police will continue to work closely with Customs.”

    The AIG congratulated Oshoba on the revenue achievement and assured that the Nigeria Police would continue working closely with Customs to achieve their objectives.

    Representing the Ojora of Ijora and Iganmu Kingdom, Royal Highness, Engineer AbdulFatai Aremu Aromire Oyegbemi, the Bashorun of Ijora, Iganmu, Chief Hakim Oladipo Ojora said the monarch commended Customs for maintaining order and preventing crises within the port community.

    “Kabiyesi appreciates the way Customs conducts itself within our domain. There is no crisis, no hoodlum activity,” he said, congratulating the Command on what he described as “very mighty achievements.”

    Speaking on behalf of licensed agents, the founder of the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, praised Apapa Customs while calling for broader application of reforms.

    “Apapa is the flagship, and you are doing great. We have made up our minds to be compliant. One-Stop Shop should be universal, not only when there is an alert, so that everyone can compete effectively,” Aniebonam said.

    He said freight forwarders were already looking ahead to 2026 “to do greater things that will bring about a greater Nigeria.”

    The event also featured the presentation of stakeholder awards, reinforcing the Command’s collaboration-first approach to port management.

    Terminal Operators Awards went to firms including APM Terminals, Eco Support Services and CFA Terminal 3. The Controllers’ Commendation Award, for promoting industrial harmony, was presented to individuals including Dr. Boniface Aniebonam, and Alhaji Tanko Ibrahim, among others.

    Under the Agency Cooperation Award, organisations such as the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), NDLEA, Nigeria Police (Apapa Command) and Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) were recognised for sustained support. The CAC Special Recognition Award honoured groups including ANLCA, Atlantic Coast Shipping Nigeria Ltd and ACE Unique, among others.

    A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of a Lifetime Achievement Award to to National President of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA) Kikelomo Adeniyi, in recognition of wide-ranging social impact initiatives linked to the Service as well as humanity.

    Her interventions include vocational empowerment of over 1,500 women, establishment of an ultra-modern skills acquisition centre in Abuja, welfare support for widows of fallen officers, pioneering of the Green Border Sustainability Initiative focusing on tree planting, clean-up exercises, waste management and discouraging urban burning, and promotion of national immunisation campaigns against measles and other diseases in partnership with state governments and NGOs.

    Presenting the award on behalf of the CGC, CAC Emmanuel Oshoba described her as “a human mobiliser” whose work has positioned COWA as a model for community-driven development.

    The event was attended by Acting Commandant of Nigeria Army Intelligence Apapa, Colonel Ogunbunmi; the Commander of Narcotics; Customs Area Controllers, Chief Akinwunmi Olufemi; senior officers of various agencies; terminal operators; and representatives of freight forwarding associations.

    During the ceremony, attendees observed a minute’s silence for Assistant Comptroller Nafiu Abubakar, who died in the early hours of Tuesday after a protracted illness.

    As Apapa Customs closed the year, stakeholders converged on a shared message: stronger compliance, deeper collaboration and sustained reforms remain central to keeping Nigeria’s busiest port competitive, secure and revenue-efficient in 2026 and beyond.

  • Oyetola, Walson-Jack unveil digital platform for Marine, Blue Economy

    Oyetola, Walson-Jack unveil digital platform for Marine, Blue Economy

    The Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has launched its Enterprise Content Management System (ECMS), marking a major milestone in the Ministry’s digital transformation and institutional reform agenda.

    The launch was jointly conducted by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy,  Adegboyega Oyetola, and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, during the Ministry’s Fourth Quarter 2025 Stakeholders and Citizens Engagement held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.

    The engagement, which attracted a wide spectrum of stakeholders from across the marine and blue economy value chain, was held under the theme: “Positioning Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy for Investment, Innovation and Expansion: The Pathway.”

    Delivering his keynote address, Oyetola described the engagement as a defining moment in Nigeria’s drive to reposition the marine and blue economy as a critical pillar of economic diversification, growth, and global competitiveness. He noted that the forum was deliberately designed to deepen transparency, accountability, partnership, and shared ownership of reforms in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Speaking on the launch of the ECMS, the Minister described the platform as a strategic investment that goes beyond internal administration to drive efficiency, transparency, accountability, and improved service delivery.

    READ ALSO: Turaki-led PDP begs Nigerians for another chance

    “A digitally enabled Ministry is a more responsive Ministry,” he said. “Through the ECMS, we are streamlining workflows, strengthening records management, improving decision-making, and enhancing our capacity to support investors, operators, and partners with speed, clarity, and integrity.”

    Highlighting the strategic importance of the sector, Oyetola said Nigeria’s extensive coastline, vast inland waterways, and strategic geographic location provide unique opportunities to harness maritime trade, fisheries, aquaculture, logistics, tourism, and allied services for inclusive growth, job creation, and regional integration.

    He outlined key achievements recorded by the Ministry over the past year, particularly in fisheries and aquaculture, where local fish production increased from 1.1 million metric tons to 1.4 million metric tons. While acknowledging that this still falls short of the country’s annual consumption of 3.6 million tons, the Minister said the progress reflects targeted interventions, improved coordination, technology deployment, and better sectoral planning.

    Oyetola also disclosed that the Ministry has commenced engagements with financial institutions to provide single-digit interest loans for fishermen nationwide, aimed at expanding access to affordable finance, boosting productivity, empowering operators, and curbing illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.

    On the international stage, the Minister noted that Nigeria’s election into Category C of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and its emergence as Chairman of the Conference of Ministers of the Fisheries Committee for the West Central Gulf of Guinea underscore renewed global confidence in Nigeria’s maritime leadership, governance reforms, and policy direction.

    He added that the Ministry’s reform efforts have earned national recognition, citing a 96 per cent performance rating by the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit (CRDCU), positive assessments from the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), and recent data from the National Bureau of Statistics ranking water transportation among the top five fastest-growing sectors of the Nigerian economy.

    In her remarks, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, commended the Ministry for its far-reaching reforms and notable achievements, particularly the successful go-live of the ECMS.

    She described the digital platform as a significant step toward paperless governance, improved records management, and faster, more efficient service delivery within the public service. According to her, the ECMS will enhance institutional memory, reduce bureaucracy, improve accountability, and align the Ministry with the Federal Civil Service’s broader digital transformation agenda.

    The event was attended by an array of industry stakeholders, including regulators, private sector operators, development partners, investors, and representatives from diverse segments of the marine and blue economy, all of whom reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the sector’s growth and sustainability.

  • Wema Bank launches ‘12 Days of Christmas”

    Wema Bank launches ‘12 Days of Christmas”

    Wema Bank has launched a festive customer reward campaign, tagged “12 Days of Christmas with 5 for 5 Rewards,” as part of its end-of-year engagement aimed at encouraging everyday banking activities during the holiday season.

    The campaign, which runs from December 14 to December 25, 2025, is designed to reward customers who fund their accounts with a minimum of N5,000.

    Each day throughout the twelve-day period, 33 customers will receive a N5,000 cash reward upon meeting the funding requirement, translating to daily cash rewards for selected participants across the country.

    According to the bank, the initiative aligns with its broader strategy of recognising customer loyalty while promoting the use of its digital and alternative banking channels.

    The campaign allows customers to participate by funding their accounts through the ALAT app, the *945# USSD code, or debit card transactions.

    Wema Bank said the promotion reflects its understanding of increased financial activity during the festive period, when households typically face higher spending demands associated with travel, family obligations, and year-end preparations.

    By offering direct cash rewards tied to routine transactions, the bank aims to provide added value without altering customers’ regular banking behaviour.

    READ ALSO: Turaki-led PDP begs Nigerians for another chance

    The financial institution noted that the campaign forms part of its continued focus on customer-centric innovation, particularly in leveraging digital platforms to deliver convenient and accessible banking experiences.

    It also underscores the bank’s effort to maintain consistent engagement with customers beyond traditional promotions, especially during key moments in the calendar year.

    Wema Bank added that the initiative complements its wider retail banking objectives, which prioritise simplicity, transparency, and responsiveness to customer needs.

    The bank has, in recent years, increased its emphasis on digital banking solutions as a way of deepening financial inclusion and improving service delivery across its customer base.

    As the year draws to a close, the bank said the 12 Days of Christmas with 5 for 5 Rewards campaign offers customers an opportunity to benefit from routine banking activities while participating in a seasonal initiative that runs alongside other end-of-year engagements.

    Wema Bank reiterated its commitment to delivering banking services that balance innovation with practical value, noting that customer-focused programmes remain central to its approach as it prepares for the new financial year.

    “Beyond the rewards, the 12 Days of Christmas with 5 for 5 Rewards reflects Wema Bank’s broader commitment to customer-centric banking. It reinforces the Bank’s focus on creating experiences that go beyond transactions, especially during moments that matter most to customers.

    “As the year draws to a close, Wema Bank is inviting customers to enjoy the festive season knowing that their loyalty is valued and celebrated. With every transaction, the Bank continues to find new ways to connect, appreciate, and give back during a season defined by generosity.”

  • Church holds carol service tomorrow

    Church holds carol service tomorrow

    The 35th Interdenominational Carol Service of the Cherubim & Seraphim Movement Church (Ayo Ni O) Surulere District Headquarters, Lagos holds tomorrow.

    In a statement, the Senior Special Apostle, Pastor George Oluwadare Ogunleye, the District Chairman/General Leader, noted that the carol service promises to be an uplifting celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.

    He said the theme is: “Joy to the World”, adding that it will feature soul-stirring music, spirit-filled Bible readings, and inspiring messages.

    He noted that the guest preacher for the occasion will be a former General Secretary of the Bible Society of Nigeria, Rev  Fred Odutola.

    READ ALSO; Farouk Ahmed: A challenge for EFCC

    Ogunleye said distinguished guests from the government, private sector, and other faiths had been invited for the event, saying that their presence is expected to add to the significance and grandeur of the celebration.

    The District Chairman/ General Leader urged Nigerians to continue to pray for the nation’s leaders, expressing his confidence in the ability of the nation to overcome all its challenges, emerging stronger and more prosperous.

    He charged citizens to assist the government and security forces in tackling the nation’s security challenges.

  • NCS to sanction banks delaying remittances of govt revenue

    NCS to sanction banks delaying remittances of govt revenue

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has threatened to sanction some of the designated banks that are involved in delaying remittance of its revenue to the purse of the Federal Government after the reconciliation of collections processed through the B’odogwu platform

    Such delays, according to the Public Relations Officer of the Service, Abdullahi Maiwada,  constitute a breach of remittance obligations and negatively impact the efficiency, transparency, and integrity of government revenue administration.

    “In line with the provisions of the Service Level Agreement (SLA) executed between the Nigeria Customs Service and Designated Banks, the Service hereby notifies stakeholders of the commencement of enforcement actions against banks found to be in default of agreed remittance timelines.

    “Accordingly, any Designated Bank that fails to remit collected Customs revenue within the prescribed period shall be liable to penalty interest calculated at three per cent above the prevailing Nigerian Interbank Offered Rate (NIBOR) for the duration of the delay. Affected banks will receive formal notifications indicating the delayed amount, applicable penalty, and the timeline for settlement.

    “The Service further notes that persistent or repeated non-compliance with the terms of the SLA may attract additional sanctions, including regulatory and administrative measures, as provided under the Agreement and relevant laws guiding Customs revenue collection.

    READ ALSO: Turaki-led PDP begs Nigerians for another chance

    “The NCS reiterates that prompt, accurate, and complete remittance of Customs revenue is a fundamental obligation of Designated Banks.”

    Any payment of collected revenue into unauthorised accounts, whether deliberate or erroneous, will be treated as a serious violation and addressed in accordance with the SLA and applicable legal frameworks.

    Designated Banks, he said, “are therefore advised to strengthen internal controls, ensure strict adherence to remittance timelines, and comply fully with the provisions of the SLA. The Service remains committed to enforcing accountability, safeguarding government revenue, and promoting a transparent and predictable financial system in support of national economic development,” Maiwada said.

  • Awofisayo joins CRC Credit Bureau

    Awofisayo joins CRC Credit Bureau

    CRC Credit Bureau Limited, Nigeria’s leading credit information solutions provider, has appointed Olawuyi Awofisayo, ANIPR, as its new Head, Brand and Corporate Communications. His appointment reflects CRC’s commitment to strengthening its brand presence, deepening stakeholder engagement, and advancing credit education across Nigeria’s financial ecosystem.

    Commenting on the transition, the Managing Director, Dr. ’Tunde Popoola, said: “Olawuyi’s expertise aligns strongly with CRC’s long-term vision of deepening credit penetration, expanding financial literacy, and strengthening our engagement with consumers and partners.”

    “We are confident that his leadership will add significant value to our brand and our mission.”

    In this role, Olawuyi will lead the organisation’s brand strategy, corporate communications, media relations, internal communications, content development, and reputation management. He will also drive strategic initiatives that support CRC’s vision of promoting financial inclusion and fostering a stronger, data-driven credit culture nationwide.

    A multidisciplinary expert in branding, communications, digital marketing, SEO, web development and cybersecurity, Olawuyi brings over six years of experience helping organisations grow, stay visible, and remain competitive in an increasingly digital world.

    Before joining CRC, he served as Branding & Marketing Communications Manager at Olisa Agbakoba Legal (OAL), where he led firm-wide branding, digital communication, events, stakeholder roundtables, CSR initiatives, mentorship programmes, and legal directory submissions.

    READ ALSO; Farouk Ahmed: A challenge for EFCC

    He previously worked as Digital Communications Executive at J3 Holadings, and has consulted for various organisations including Slice Media and Davidorlah Farms, supporting projects in digital marketing, content strategy, and brand positioning.

    Olawuyi also served as the Digital Campaign Manager for the Social Democratic Party (SDP) Presidential Campaign in 2023, where he led end-to-end digital strategy across multiple platforms.

    In addition, he is a Faculty Lecturer in Sports PR & Communications Strategy at the Business of Sports Institute Africa (BOS), contributing to capacity building within the sports business ecosystem.

    He holds certifications in Digital Communication, Crisis Management, Marketing, SEO, Cybersecurity, and a Mini-MBA in Business Management. He is also an Associate of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and a graduate of the University of Ilorin. Olawuyi is also currently pursuing an MBA to further strengthen his strategic management expertise.

  • ‘How to tackle Japa, youth unemployment’

    ‘How to tackle Japa, youth unemployment’

    By Sherifdeen Amusa

    The Institute of Business Development (IBD) has called for comprehensive reforms in vocational skills training for Nigerian youths. It also suggested better alternatives to the JAPA syndrome affecting Nigerian Youths.

    These were contained in a briefing by the President of IBD, Alhaji Sadiku Rafindadi, at the end of the 10th Annual Conference of IBD in Abuja themed, “Harnessing Digital Innovation for Nigeria’s Economic Growth and Sustainable Development.”

    Announcing the launching of the Innovative Empowerment Community Network (IECN) Agenda, Rafindadi said the IECN was not another government programme or a corporate CSR initiative, but a “Grand Unifying Ecosystem” that serves as a bridge connecting training centres, youth unemployment  and neglected elderly citizens to make a  functional engine for national development.

    He said many skill acquisition programme fail due to the incentive used to lure people into it, rather than inviting people who are genuinely eager to learn the skills.

    To solve this, he called for a radical shift by ensuring that the selection process for skill acquisition is made unpolitical and devoid of advertised monetary benefits during the recruitment stage.

    He said: “We scrutinised why so many skill acquisition programmes fail and found out that when you offer free money, you attract people looking for charity, not people looking for a career. Therefore, under the IECN Agenda, the IBD is advocating a radical shift in how we select and train our youths.

    READ ALSO; Farouk Ahmed: A challenge for EFCC

    “The IBD advocates that all selection processes for training must remain unpolitical and devoid of advertised monetary benefits. We must conceal startup grants and stipends during the recruitment phase. Why? Because we want candidates who are hungry for knowledge, not hungry for a “national cake.

    “We want resilience. The incentives will come after certification, rewarding those who stayed the course.”

    On JAPA syndrome, the IBD stated in a communique after the conference that it aims to work with diplomatic representatives to create bilateral labor frameworks, that will change the “narrative of our youth fleeing as desperate “migrants” or “refugees” through local standard training that will change them to dignified professionals who earn foreign currency and remit taxes back to Nigeria”

    To address the “neglected” aging population, the IBD under its “Care Revolutionary  Ecosystem  (CRE)” called for a formalized care system that is secure and professionalised so that   trained youths can  provide home care for the aging population.

    This, it said, aims to give senior citizens the dignity of being cared for in their own homes, and give millions of Nigerian youths sustainable, respectable jobs.

    While noting safety concern, IBD said the IECN will champion a National Caregiver Bio-Data Registry, linked with security agencies, to ensure that every caregiver is vetted, traceable, and trusted.

     The IBD said it was no longer just a body for business theory but an implementation partner for national progress.

    While urging the government to embrace the IECN template which will stop politicisation of empowerment and allowing merit to drive the process, it urged the Diplomatic Community to standardise the skills of “our youths.” It also urged the private sector to invest in this eco-system.

  • Lekki Port automated to boost trade

    Lekki Port automated to boost trade

    The Lekki Deep Sea Port is now fully automated to boost international trade, satisfy customers, stakeholders and other ports users.

    Addressing reporters in Lagos yesterday, its Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Lekki Port LFTZ Enterprise Limited, Mr. Wang Qiang, urged importers, clearing agents and stakeholders, including government agencies operating  at the port to key into end-to-end digital processes available at  their terminal to boost quick cargo clearance and facilitate international trade.

    He noted that Customs procedures, particularly physical cargo examinations, and other port services must be fully digitalised to significantly reduce cargo dwell time and facilitate cago clearance.

    He said: “For automation to work efficiently, all players must be ready – customers, government and every stakeholder. Only then can we have a fantastic system.”

    He also stressed that improved connectivity would allow the port to effectively double capacity through performance optimisation without expanding its physical footprint.

    Commenting on the new tax regime expected to take effect in 2026, he urged the government to adopt a simplified tax framework that supports ease of doing business. He cited Germany and other countries where goods are cleared from ports with a 30-day window allowed for value added tax (VAT) remittance.

    READ ALSO: Turaki-led PDP begs Nigerians for another chance

    Findings have shown that between Q1 and Q3 2025, Lekki Port handled an estimated N13.46 trillion in total trade value, combining imports and exports, making it Nigeria’s second-largest port by trade value. This figure places is well ahead of Tin Can Island Port’s N9.31 trillion and almost double the N6.76 trillion recorded at Port Harcourt (Onne).

    “We already reached 50 per cent of our capacity now – almost 50 per cent of the port capacity,” he said, noting consistent improvement in the number of twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) handled monthly.

    Qiang, however, emphasised that efficient multimodal connectivity remains critical to sustaining and accelerating growth at the port, revealing that barge operations have become an important evacuation channel and currently account for about 10 per cent of cargo movement from the port.

    Qiang added that the ongoing Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road project would help ease congestion and improve access to the port but stressed that rail connectivity remains essential, particularly given the scale of industrial activities emerging within the Lekki corridor.

    “I believe the train option is something the government is concerned about, and with the level of industrial activities in this region, we expect that it will be provided,” Qiang said.

    Also, the Chief Executive Officer of Lekki Freeport Terminal (LFT), Capt Jedrzej Mierzewski added that after only two years of operations, LFT has already become the number two terminal in the Nigerian market.

    “We are the fastest-growing terminal in the country, combining modern infrastructure, operational excellence, and a clear ambition to become a leading transshipment hub for West Africa.

    “Our growth supports the Nigerian economy by strengthening trade connectivity and helping to reduce the cost of foreign trade through efficient, reliable, and competitive port services,” Mierzewski said.

  • Chief Whip hails Fed Govt over $4.29b PPP approval

    Chief Whip hails Fed Govt over $4.29b PPP approval

    Cross River State House of Assembly Chief Whip, Chief Hilary Bisong, has commended the Federal Executive Council (FEC) for approving over $4.29 billion Public-Private Partnership (PPP) investments for the state, saying it will boost growth and development.

    In a statement, Bisong said the move was a right step in the right direction and the Federal Government’s commitment to infrastructure development, private-sector–led investment, and sustainable planning.

    He said the move was in tandem with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to rebuildHelp investor confidence, attract private capital, and reposition the country as a strong competitor in global trade.

    READ ALSO; Farouk Ahmed: A challenge for EFCC

    Bisong identified the Bakassi Deep Seaport as a key component of the PPP projects, saying they are of significance to the country.

    According to him, the deep-water port is designed to accommodate large commercial vessels, decongest ports, and strengthen maritime and logistics capacity.

    He added that the project is expected to stimulate industrial activities, enhance export competitiveness, and deepen the country’s integration into global value chains.

    The Chief Whip praised Governor Senator Bassey Otu, for his ‘’consistent leadership and strategic alignment with national development priorities’’.