The Nation Newspaper

Category: Transportation

  • Tricycle operators hold peaceful protest as govt refuses to register association

    Tricycle operators hold peaceful protest as govt refuses to register association

    Commercial tricycle operators in Aba, the commercial nerve of Abia State, have taken to the streets of the economic city to protest the refusal of the state government to register their association.

    The tricyclists, under the auspices of ‘Real Keke Operators Association Abia-State (REKOAA),’  staged a peaceful demonstration around the major streets in Aba to register their displeasure with the state Ministry of Transport officials, whom they accused of working in collaboration with the Works Commissioner.

    The protesters bearing different inscriptions to vent their anger, Saturday afternoon said the refusal of the state ministry of works officials to register their association was a breach of their constitutional rights of association.

    Spokesperson of the group, Mr. Sunday Okenwa, in an interview, while debunking being sponsored by any person or group of individuals, said, “We commend our amiable and action-oriented governor, His Excellency Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, for his ongoing infrastructural development across the state. In less than two years, Abia has transformed into a very enviable state.

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    “Most of Abia’s dilapidated roads, including the famous Port Harcourt road in Aba, have been magnificently fixed. Residents of Abia are now enjoying the dividends of democracy, which were denied to them for decades.

    “He is, indeed, a leader and not a ruler. We assure him of our full support in the upcoming 2027 election.

    “We are also proud of Dr. Chimezie Isaac Ukaegbu, an illustrious and distinguished son of Abia State and Nigeria, who serves as the Honourable Commissioner for Transport in Abia State.

    “His commendable work in executing the affairs of his ministry is notable. He is conscientious, upright, and God-fearing. We praise him for his good works in Abia State.

    “Our primary concern is the denial of REKOAA’s right to operate as a recognized Tricycle Association in the state. In our opinion, this decision contradicts the Ministry of Transport’s Certificate of Approval, which granted REKOAA recognition.

    “The certificate, handed over to Chairman Comrade Chimezie Nwokejiobi at Umuahia, states, ‘I write to convey the ministry’s approval for your Association to operate and manage the activities of all Keke Operators within your jurisdiction.’

    “Additionally, Certificate of Registration No: MOT/T/063 certifies that REKOAA has been duly registered, having met all the Ministry’s requirements. What else can we say?”

    “We are not opposed to ASTOPU,  Our concern is that REKOAA has met all the requirements set by the state government for approval, and the government has granted us approval and a license to operate.

    “ASTOPU presented two conditions for collaboration with REKOAA members.

    “Firstly, they demanded the dissolution of REKOAA’s registered membership and its integration into ASTOPU.

    “Secondly, they insisted on reinstating outdated practices, including pit collection and multiple taxation, which have been abolished by the governor.

    “Our humble request to our amiable governor is to intervene and call those preventing REKOAA from Registration to order. Despite fulfilling all necessary requirements and paying for offices in Umuahia and Aba, we kindly ask that you address this matter and ensure ASTOPU respects REKOAA’s rights.

    “Denying registration to REKOAA would indeed create financial difficulties for them. Without registration, they wouldn’t be able to generate revenue to cover their expenses and renew the Ministry of Transport’s annual fees and also reduce the crime rate of the underaged using tricycles to commit.

    “Having two tricycle management systems in Abia State could be beneficial, as it would provide tricycle operators with choices and encourage healthy competition.

    “This, in turn, could support the transformational agenda of the Abia State government, led by His Excellency Dr. Alex Otti.

    “That’s a disturbing development. It sounds like ASTOPU is using strong-arm tactics to coerce tricycle operators into registering with them.

    “Using the police to harass and arrest operators, only to force them to register with ASTOPU, is a clear abuse of power.

    “This kind of behavior can have serious consequences, including undermining trust in law enforcement and the Abia State Government and creating a culture of fear among tricycle operators.

    “It’s also worth noting that such actions may be counterproductive, as they can lead to more reckless driving and accidents, as seen in other areas where similar tactics have been employed.

    “The situation highlights the need for a fair and transparent regulatory framework that protects the rights of all stakeholders, including tricycle operators.

    “It’s essential for the authorities to intervene and ensure that ASTOPU’s actions are investigated and addressed and called to order.”

  • Flamingo premium car care expands to Nigeria

    Flamingo premium car care expands to Nigeria

    Flamingo Car Care Tech Limited, a global leader in automotive care products, has expanded its operations to Nigeria with a promise to offer high-quality car maintenance solutions to vehicle owners, mechanics and businesses. 

    The company, known for its innovative research and development in automotive care, has built a strong presence in North America, Europe and Asia. 

    With its latest expansion, Nigerian drivers will now have access to a wide range of products designed to improve vehicle performance, enhance durability, and maintain a polished appearance.

    Marketing Manager of Flamingo Car Care Tech Limited, Ajose Sehindemi stated: “We recognise the need for high-performance car care products in Nigeria and are excited to introduce our globally trusted solutions to vehicle owners and automotive businesses across the country.”

    The company’s product offerings cover a comprehensive range of car care needs. 

    These include exterior maintenance products like car wax, spray paints, and rubber coatings, designed to enhance the appearance and protect the vehicle’s surface. 

    For interior care, the company provides air fresheners and deodorizing sprays to keep cars smelling fresh and clean. 

    Flamingo also offers engine protection solutions such as motor oils, transmission fluids and anti-freeze products to ensure that vehicles run smoothly for longer periods.

    Flamingo’s tire and wheel care products are also a key part of their offering, designed to maintain durability and shine. For those looking to preserve and maintain car parts, the company provides lubricants and rust prevention solutions to extend the lifespan of various vehicle components.

    As part of its expansion, Flamingo Car Care Tech is also seeking to collaborate with local distributors and business partners. 

    The company is offering exclusive dealership opportunities to Nigerian entrepreneurs looking to enter the growing automotive care industry. With a proven track record in international markets, Flamingo aims to build a strong network of partners to ensure its products are widely available across Nigeria.

    This expansion into Nigeria not only brings advanced automotive care solutions to the country but also presents an opportunity for local businesses to grow alongside a trusted global brand.

     Flamingo Car Care Tech is poised to make a significant impact on Nigeria’s automotive industry by providing high-quality products designed to enhance vehicle performance and longevity.

  • NRC, SEDC to partner on rail rehabilitation

    NRC, SEDC to partner on rail rehabilitation

    The Managing Director and CEO of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC), Dr. Kayode Opeifa, has highlighted the crucial role of the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) in the Federal Government’s vision to rehabilitate, expand and optimize the country’s railway infrastructure.

    He spoke yesterday during a working visit by the leadership of the SEDC to the NRC Headquarters in Lagos.

    It was the first formal engagement between the NRC and any of the regional commissions established by President Bola Tinubu as part of efforts to ensure the even development of all zones in the country.

    Opeifa observed that the visit by the SEDC Managing Director Mr Mark Okoye, and the Southwest Director on the Commission, Mrs Adejoke Adebayo Chukwumah, underscored the priority attention the SEDC attached to rail development in the region.

    He said the NRC has historically been at the heart of Nigeria’s economic growth, tracing it back to the colonial era when the first rail lines were built to facilitate trade and commerce.

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    He stressed that the government is prioritizing the rehabilitation and expansion of narrow gauge railway networks to enhance mobility, reduce the cost of transporting goods, and improve economic productivity.

    He said: “While Nigeria developed 3,500 kilometres of rail lines in our first 60 years post- independence, the Federal Government successfully constructed over 1,000 kilometres of new or refurbished rail lines in the past decade, marking a significant milestone in railway development.”

    He further noted that revitalizing the railway sector would lead to a significant reduction in the cost of goods, benefiting businesses and consumers alike.

    He said rehabilitation of the eastern corridor railway line would restore connectivity between key cities in the southeast and other parts of the country.

    He also addressed the raging concerns on vandalism especially on the Eastern corridor, saying the railway assets are still much in use and not scrap irons. He said the NRC is actively working to repurpose outdated infrastructure and improve service delivery.

    With plans underway to enhance railway services across Nigeria, the NRC remains committed to ensuring that railway development aligned with national economic goals. The Federal Government’s push for modernization, increased efficiency, and expanded railway connectivity is expected to propel Nigeria’s GDP growth and bolster trade both domestically and internationally.

    In his remarks, the Managing Director, SEDC, Mr Mark Okoye,  outlined an ambitious roadmap to transform the region into Nigeria’s preferred investment destination by 2030.

    He stressed that the commission is prioritizing railway development across the five states in the Southeast.

    “Our goal is to develop a seamless business climate across all five states in the region. We want consistency in ease of doing business policies, laws, and investment regulations to attract both domestic and international investors,” he said.

    He added that the commission intends to establish an investment fund driven through an investment corporation to finance long-term projects, ensuring financial independence within a decade.

    The delegation also highlighted security and investment climate enhancement as immediate priorities, recognizing that economic transformation cannot thrive without a stable environment.

    The collaboration with the NRC is expected to play a crucial role in the region’s master planning, which includes multi-modal transportation systems, industrial clusters, and agro-processing zones.

    Okoye noted that successful models, like the Lagos State’s partnership with the NRC, could serve as a blueprint for similar initiatives in the Southeast.

    Reflecting on the commission’s first 50 days, Okoye outlined key achievements, including engagements with the Senate, House of Representatives, state governors, organised private sector groups, and the diaspora community. She also announced the launch of a volunteer system, which has already attracted over 2,000 sign-ups from Nigerians worldwide who are eager to contribute technical expertise to the region’s development.

    The SEDC’s efforts have also drawn attention from various stakeholders, including the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), who have pledged to track the commission’s expenditures to ensure transparency and accountability.

    Okoye reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to fostering development partnerships and urged the NRC to consider the SEDC a key stakeholder in its future projects.

    “We are here on a plucking mission—to identify and maximize opportunities for regional growth,” she said.

    With a clear strategic direction and growing stakeholder engagement, the Southeast Development Commission is poised to drive economic transformation in the region, ensuring sustainable progress and enhanced national integration.

    The commission, which was inaugurated on February 11, has identified five key sectors to drive the region’s economic expansion from $40 billion to $200 billion within ten years. These sectors include agriculture, industrialization, technology, creative economy, and tourism, with infrastructure serving as the enabling foundation.

    A major highlight of the visit was a tour of all operational areas within the Lagos district. Among places visited are; Iddo Terminus, the Running Shed, the Nigerian Railway Training School, and the Minister Museum aimed at showing SEDC team the rich heritage of the Corporation.

  • Abdulrazaq celebrated as Aviation College graduates 19 military, civilian pilots

    Abdulrazaq celebrated as Aviation College graduates 19 military, civilian pilots

    Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has emphasised the role of discipline and teamwork in success stories. 

    He spoke on Friday as the International Aviation College Ilorin graduated 19 student pilots, including 10 enrollees from the Nigerian Army, the highest in the history of the training school.

    Speaking at the graduation ceremony, AbdulRazaq called for sustained perseverance, discipline, and team building among pilots.

    “It’s been six months of rigorous training that got you here. You have learned a lot within the period from perseverance, discipline, to team building. You must sustain these to succeed,” AbdulRazaq said. 

    Represented by Commissioner for Tertiary Education Saadatu Modibbo-Kawu, the Governor said the graduates are not just equipped with certificates but have also imbibed the knowledge, skills, and values needed to contribute meaningfully to the society.

    “The state government is extremely excited to witness this very important achievement in the lives of these students. We are happy with the partnership between the College and the Nigerian Army,” he added. 

    AbdulRazaq commended management, staff and students of the College for their tireless efforts to sustain the school.

    The Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, who spoke through the Brigade Commander, 22 Armoured Brigade Nigerian Army Sobi Brigadier General Ezra Barkins, said the training seeks to fully operationalize the Nigerian Army Aviation.

    “This will no doubt reshape the battle space for all our operations, thereby enhancing operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army,” he added.

    “As you are graduating today, embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth, and remember that with perseverance and resilience, you will go beyond the sky. I urge you to exhibit the core values of which the Nigerian Army is known for. You must remain focused always, and together, you will overcome obstacles, celebrate triumphs, and build a legacy that will endure throughout the annals of the Nigerian Army.”

    Rector of International Aviation College Ilorin Captain Yakubu Okahtai, explained that Private Pilot License (PPL) serves as a gateway to advanced aviation training, enabling them to transition into operational roles that will significantly enhance the Nigerian Army’s air mobility and reconnaissance capabilities. 

    “This occasion marks not just the successful completion of a rigorous training exercise but also the beginning of a new chapter in the careers of these gallant officers who have chosen to serve their nation in the skies,” he said.

    “The Private Pilot License (PPL) training undertaken by our student pilots is a crucial foundation in their journey towards becoming proficient civil/military aviators. This training is more than just an introduction to flying: it instils discipline, precision, and a keen sense of responsibility, qualities that are essential for military aviation.”

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    Okahtai appreciated the Kwara State Government for its invaluable role in the success of the training programme. 

    “The partnership between the Nigerian Army and the Kwara State Government is a testament to the importance of synergy between military institutions and civil authorities. This collaboration has not only contributed to the success of this exercise but has also laid a foundation for future training programmes that will continue to produce highly skilled military pilots,” the Rector said. 

    Okahtai disclosed that since the inception of the current management in March, 2022, the College has graduated 62 Students. 

    Speaking on behalf of the new pilots, Lieutenant Smart Ebube Aghogho thanked the management of the College and the instructors for their expertise and the support they needed to excel in the dynamic field as well as the Nigerian Army for giving them the opportunity to get trained at the esteemed aviation training institution in Nigeria. 

    “Today marks the cumulation of months of hardwork, perseverance, dedication, and rigorous trainings. We can only thank God, who has given us strength and brought us this far,” he said.

    “We have overcome countless challenges from sleepless nights of studying, weekend classes, weekends of flying, progress checks, mocks, NCAA examination and cross-country navigation.”

    The star civilian graduate of the day is Musa Aliu Damilola, who trended three years ago after building mini planes and drones, which he later took to the Kwara State Government House. 

    Musa Aliu Damilola appreciated Governor AbdulRazaq for supporting his dream of becoming a pilot with state sponsorship at the International Aviation College Ilorin. 

    “I appreciate His Excellency Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for his support towards my career. I never expected to be here today, but here I am doing PPL graduation. He also supported me to acquire Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL). He made my dream come true. I want to use this moment to appreciate him once again,” he said.

    “Right from my childhood, my passion was to become a pilot, but there was no support. I started by building small aircraft. Luckily,  I met with a former Special Assistant to the Governor Cute Abiola who introduced me to His Excellency, and the Governor sponsored me to the International Aviation College Ilorin. Now, I am pursuing my CPL after PPL.”

  • MWUN, transport safety committee partner for safer seaport haulage

    MWUN, transport safety committee partner for safer seaport haulage

    In a bid to enhance the welfare, safety, and operational efficiency of haulage drivers across Nigeria’s seaports, the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has entered into a strategic partnership with the Joint National Transport Safety Committee of Nigeria.

    The two organisations recently formalised their collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Lagos, aimed at promoting a safer and more sustainable maritime truck and haulage transport system.

    The agreement underscores the principles of cooperation, mutual respect, and a shared vision for improvement. 

    It also stresses that safety goes beyond regulatory obligations, serving as a moral duty to protect drivers, passengers, and surrounding communities.

    MWUN President General, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, reaffirmed the union’s dedication to workers’ welfare and expressed hope that the partnership would be implemented sincerely, unlike past agreements that failed due to a lack of commitment from stakeholders.

    “The union is a reputable organisation that will not compromise workers’ welfare and standards. This MoU is expected to address the anomalies of drivers wasting man-hours on the port corridors for cargo evacuation,” Adeyanju stated.

    He also mentioned that the union had been strategising with the Joint National Transport Safety Committee of Nigeria for years before reaching this formal agreement. According to him, the deal is designed to ensure that the safety and welfare of drivers remain a top priority.

    The partnership focuses on several critical areas, including regulatory compliance, vehicle maintenance, inspection, and the overall well-being of drivers and passengers. These areas, the stakeholders believe, will not only promote safety but also enhance the efficiency of haulage operations within the maritime sector.

    Executive Chairman of the Joint National Transport Safety Committee of Nigeria, Mogbojuri Taiwo Oluwadamilare, described the collaboration as a transformative initiative aligned with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at promoting ease of doing business within the maritime sector.

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    “As we sign this MoU, we are not just formalising a partnership – we are making a promise to each other, to our stakeholders, and to the communities we serve. A promise to uphold the highest standards of safety, to innovate and improve continuously, and to collaborate openly and transparently,” Mogbojuri stated.

    He further commended MWUN for its commitment to safety excellence, describing the union’s expertise as an invaluable asset to the partnership. 

    “To our partner at the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria, we are honoured to embark on this journey with you. Your expertise and commitment to safety excellence are invaluable assets to this partnership,” he added.

    The agreement underscores the intention of both parties to improve haulage operations through better safety practices and enhanced welfare for drivers, a move expected to boost operational efficiency and promote the well-being of all stakeholders involved in the sector. 

    By fostering collaboration and a unified approach to safety and welfare, MWUN and the Joint National Transport Safety Committee are positioning the industry for long-term growth and sustainability.

  • FG clears bottlenecks for private sector investment in infrastructure – Edun

    FG clears bottlenecks for private sector investment in infrastructure – Edun

    The Federal Government has taken decisive steps to remove bureaucratic hurdles that stalled private sector investment in key road projects for over a year, unlocking significant infrastructure development under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) framework.

    Speaking on Arise TV, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Wale Edun, reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s $100 billion annual infrastructure deficit by mobilising private capital.

    Edun highlighted recent approvals by the Federal Economic Council, allowing private investors to proceed with the Benin-Asaba Highway and the Lagos-Abeokuta Road—both part of the Highway Development and Management Initiative (HDMI, launched under the Buhari administration. 

    The HDMI initially attracted strong domestic investor interest but faced bureaucratic delays that slowed execution.

    With the Tinubu administration’s intervention, the projects—alongside a broader 5,000-kilometre road concession programme—are moving forward. 

    Investors have secured long-term financing, much of it from domestic sources, to construct, toll, and maintain these roads, significantly improving transport efficiency.

    “These investors have gathered long-term finance, much of it from Nigeria, in order to build these roads, concession them, and toll them,” Edun said. 

    He noted that travel times will be slashed by 75%, with the Benin-Asaba corridor dropping from four hours to one hour.

    The HDMI’s timeline reflects the challenges and progress in Nigeria’s PPP road infrastructure programme. 

     From  March 2021 – February 2022: Bidding phase, with 18 of 75 bidders pre qualified.

     By June 2022, they were negotiation of concession terms.

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    In January 2023, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approval for nine road corridors (1,374 km), with an expected N11.54 trillion revenue over a 25-year concession period.

    May 2023 witnessed the signing of concession agreements for nine pilot roads with six concessionaires, including Africa Plus Partners Nigeria Limited (APPNL), which won the Benin-Asaba (125 km) and Lagos-Abeokuta (80 km) expressways. 

    But November 2023 – January 2025 recorded series of renegotiations, addendums, and legal adjustments.

    The HDMI programme has engaged several concessionaires for specific highway corridors. 

    Some of them include: Africa Plus Partners Nigeria Limited (APPNL): Benin-Asaba Expressway (125 km) and Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway (80 km). 

    Avia Infrastructure Services Limited (AISL): Abuja-Lokoja Highway (195 km). 

    Enyimba Economic City Consortium: Onitsha-Owerri-Aba Highway (161.2 km) and Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway (200 km) 

    AFC/Mota-Engil Consortium: Shagamu-Benin Highway (258 km) and Lagos-Badagry-Seme Border Road (79 km). 

    China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd (CHEC): Abuja-Keffi-Akwanga-Lafia-Makurdi Highway (175.9 km).

    Dafac Consortium: Kano-Shuari Highway (100 km).

    While Nigeria has long had a regulatory framework for PPPs, including the Infrastructure Concession Regulatory Commission (ICRC), established in 2008, recent efforts have focused on making these partnerships more transparent, efficient, and attractive to investors. 

    The government’s renewed push aims to address past challenges, including delays in approvals and inconsistencies in concession terms.

    Some of these projects are believed to have secured investment from Nigerian pension fund managers, signalling a growing domestic appetite for infrastructure as an asset class. 

    However, investors will be closely watching how the government manages execution and regulatory oversight to ensure sustained success.

    With the Tinubu administration economic reforms, these road projects will serve as a test case for Nigeria’s ability to leverage private capital to bridge its infrastructure gap and drive economic growth.

  • Firm set to redefine excellence in Nigeria’s relocation, storage industry

    Firm set to redefine excellence in Nigeria’s relocation, storage industry

    Pack n Moove, a leading moving and logistics company committed to providing seamless, efficient, and customer-centric relocation services across Nigeria, said it aims to address the challenges organizations, house seekers face while relocating from one site to another.

    Omodudu Oluwaseyi, Co-Founder of Pack n Moove, emphasised that the company delivers detailed and dependable residential and corporate relocation services, ensuring a seamless and stress-free moving experience for both individuals and businesses. 

    “Pack n Moove specializes in residential and corporate relocations, ensuring a stress-free moving experience for individuals and businesses alike.

    “Beyond transportation, the company offers a comprehensive suite of services, including professional packing, unpacking, and handyman support such as air conditioning installation, DSTV setup, and furniture assembly. These value-added services set Pack n Moove apart, ensuring clients transition smoothly into their new spaces without hassle,” he said. 

    Reacting to the challenges facing the relocation and storage industry in Nigeria, Omodudu stated that trust issues and low awareness remain significant barriers to growth.

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    “The relocation and storage industry in Nigeria faces several challenges, ranging from lack of professionalism, poor handling of goods, and limited access to secure storage facilities, high operational costs, and low public awareness of professional moving services. Many moving companies struggle with reliability, leading to delays, damages, and customer dissatisfaction. Additionally, inadequate packing solutions and the absence of value-added services, such as furniture assembly and appliance installation, often leave customers overwhelmed after their move.

    To address trust issues and low awareness, we focus on transparent pricing, exceptional customer service, and strategic digital marketing to educate the public on the benefits of professional moving services.”

    Speaking on the importance of technology in the relocation and storage industry, Omodudu stated that tech tools help streamline operations, enhance efficiency, improve customer experience, and ensure seamless service delivery in the relocation industry. 

    “Tech is a major tool and Pack n Moove integrates technology to enhance efficiency, customer experience, and service delivery. Their automated booking and scheduling system simplifies move requests, provides instant quotes, and minimizes delays. GPS tracking and route optimization ensure timely deliveries while reducing costs. Digital communication channels and a customer relationship management system improve customer engagement and personalized service. Additionally, the Pack n Moove BUDDY, a personalized move assistant, supports clients through every stage of their relocation, from inspection to post-move setup.”

    Pack n Moove is revolutionizing the moving industry with innovation, efficiency, and a commitment to excellence, ensuring seamless and premium relocations for both households and businesses.

  • ‘Container movement by rail to Kaduna begins soon’

    ‘Container movement by rail to Kaduna begins soon’

    The Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation has assured the Inland containers Nigeria Limited, Kaduna, on seamless movement of containers by rail from Apapa Port, to Kaduna and further Kano.

    He made this assertion while receiving the Management Team of the ICNL, led by the Managing Director Mr Omotayo Dada, at the NRC headquarters Ebute Metta, Lagos, on Tuesday.

    The visit was sequel to one by the NRC Managing Director, to ICNL headquarters in Kaduna, which paved the way for discussion on the resumption of container movement by rail to Kaduna.

    Opeifa who said the Corporation is willing to partner with major movers of large containers from across the country added that only recently, the NRC entered into a partnership with APMT for the movement of containers from Apapa to the Inland Dry Port in Ibadan, Oyo State.

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    He said the corporation would continue to design products for companies willing to use the rail to move its cargoes, adding that with the ICNL partnership, the corporation hopes to move additional 50 to 100 containers per day from Lagos to Kano via, Apapa, Ijoko,  Ilorin, Minna, and Kaduna.

    Earlier, the Director of Operations and Commercial of the corporation, Akin Osinowo, said the corporation is in talks with many manufacturers, including the Dangote Group of Companies and BUA, among others.

    He added that the NRC still continues to service Lafarge, taking cement consignments from Ewekoro to Osogbo and Ilorin.

    He however said any company or terminal operator partnering with it are meant to add value to rail movement by using their size and stature to prospect new customers in order to boost the railway’s haulage capacity.

    He said the ICNL is a long standing customer of the corporation, adding that some of the factors that led to the stoppage of cargo movement especially on the narrow gauge are being addressed.

    He said issues such as insecurity, especially between Minna and Kaduna, and the washouts of several portions of the rail tracks among others, are being aggressively addressed either by the corporation’s team of engineers or by the Federal Government.

    The NRC Management and that of ICNL expressed commitment to continue their engagement and draw a road map for quick commencement of container freight to as far as to Kaduna and Kano on the western line.

  • B’Odogwu: Enhancing Nigeria Customs operations

    B’Odogwu: Enhancing Nigeria Customs operations

    By Tahir Ahmad

    The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has embraced a new era of digital transformation with B’Odogwu, an innovative platform designed to revolutionise trade facilitation, streamline operations, and boost revenue collection. 

    This cutting-edge system marks a significant leap from the outdated Nigerian Integrated Customs Information System (NICIS II), positioning Nigeria at the forefront of customs modernization in Africa.

    Last Thursday, Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, held a strategic meeting with the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Olayemi Cardoso, to solidify the integration of B’Odogwu with financial institutions. 

    This collaboration aims to enhance the efficiency of customs transactions, ensuring seamless trade documentation and duty payments. conceived to replace NICIS II following the expiration of its service contract. 

    The new system is designed to tackle inefficiencies in trade clearance, eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks, and align Nigeria’s customs operations with international best practices. It was first deployed at the Port and Terminal Multi-services Limited (PTML) Area Command in Lagos, where it facilitates critical processes like Form M and the Pre-Arrival Assessment Report (PAAR).

    Despite initial resistance from some Authorized Dealer Banks (ADBs), which delayed integration, the CBN has now intervened, instructing all financial institutions to comply with the new system. Governor Cardoso reassured the NCS of the CBN’s commitment to ensuring the success of B’Odogwu, recognizing its potential to enhance financial transactions within the trade ecosystem.

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    Cardoso commended the Customs Service for its innovative approach and pledged his support in ensuring the initiative’s success. “I am pleased to see a new direction in Customs operations. Collaboration is key, and we will continue to work closely to ensure seamless integration,” 

    “Our commitment is to provide the necessary support so that the banking sector aligns with this transition,” Cardoso said. He assured that the apex bank would work towards ensuring compliance among commercial banks with directives to improve trade processes and enhance revenue collection efficiency.

    Launched on October 23, 2024, at PTML Customs Command, B’Odogwu represents a major milestone in Nigeria’s customs reform agenda. It is a product of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the NCS and Trade Modernization Project Limited, backed by the Federal Executive Council’s approval in April 2023. 

    The system is a core component of Nigeria’s broader plan to implement a National Single Window for trade, a move that will further consolidate its status as a hub for digital customs operations.

    Adeniyi emphasized that B’Odogwu is not merely an upgrade but a fundamental shift in customs operations. Built in-house by NCS ICT officers, the platform ensures that trade clearance is more transparent, efficient, and resistant to corruption. 

    The system also aligns with the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, which empowers the agency to develop and deploy digital solutions for border security and trade facilitation.

    Deputy Comptroller General of Customs in charge of ICT, Kikelomo Adeola, described B’Odogwu as a centralized and user-friendly system that integrates advanced technology for real-time trade monitoring. Assistant Comptroller of Customs, Chinyere Nwankwuchu, highlighted its effectiveness in reducing cargo clearance times, which now takes less than eight hours—provided traders comply with accurate declaration procedures.

    The name B’Odogwu, meaning “greatness” in Igbo, reflects Nigeria’s ambition to set a new standard in customs administration. Unlike previous systems, the platform incorporates sophisticated digital tools, including electronic cargo tracking, automated risk management, and non-intrusive scanners, ensuring a more secure and efficient trade environment.

    Dr. Jummai Zainab Umar-Ajijola, Managing Director of Trade Modernization Project Limited, noted that B’Odogwu is a game-changer in customs operations. She stressed that its successful deployment would enhance Nigeria’s trade competitiveness, making it a model for other African nations seeking to digitalize their customs processes.

    Stakeholders in the logistics and trade industry have also praised the initiative. Abdul-Rahman Elias, CEO of Tallman Logistics Ltd., commended B’Odogwu for its potential to eliminate trade delays and enhance compliance. Juliet Anyaegbu, a manager at Libra Circle Ltd., lauded the system’s ability to simplify trade documentation and reduce human interference in customs processes.

    To ensure long-term success, the Federal Government must enforce compliance among financial institutions while continuously improving the system’s functionalities. Training programs for customs officers, importers, clearing agents, and bank officials will be crucial for smooth adoption. 

    Additionally, leveraging emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain will further strengthen security and efficiency. Public awareness campaigns should also be launched to educate stakeholders about B’Odogwu and encourage its widespread adoption. Establishing a robust feedback mechanism will help address potential challenges and enhance user experience.

    With B’Odogwu, Nigeria is taking a bold step towards a fully digital customs administration. If properly implemented and maintained, the platform will not only improve trade efficiency and revenue collection but also position Nigeria as a leader in digital customs operations across Africa. 

    The leadership of CGC Bashir Adeniyi and all stakeholders involved in this transformative initiative deserve commendation for their vision and commitment to modernization.

    Tahir Ahmad, an Information Media Studies graduate, is a serving NYSC member at PRNigeria Centre, Abuja. tahirabdullahbaba12@gmail.com

  • NMU Governing Council applauds Tinubu for signing Maritime University Bill into law

    NMU Governing Council applauds Tinubu for signing Maritime University Bill into law

    The Nigeria Maritime University (NMU) Governing Council has expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the long-awaited Nigeria Maritime University establishment bill into law.

    During the 21st regular council meeting in Warri on Tuesday, 25th February 2025, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Council, Abdullahi Nedanda Bardi, praised the President for this significant step.  

    “This demonstrates the President’s commitment to the development of our university,” he stated.

    Bardi expressed gratitude to key stakeholders, Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo and Chief Engineer Matthew Tonlagha, for their invaluable contributions towards the realization of this milestone.

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    He highlighted that their unwavering support over the years played a vital role in the successful signing of the bill. Bardi acknowledged the unmatched enthusiasm and dedication exhibited by these individuals, stating that their efforts were truly exceptional.

    While acknowledging the pivotal role of stakeholders in the university’s progress, Bardi urged for continued support and prayers for their unwavering commitment. 

    The Council looks forward to the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders in ensuring the success and growth of the Nigeria Maritime University.