All Posts in "DFC Management"

PH road, Okpara auditorium commissioning: Abians hail Gov Otti’s masterstroke

 

Picture: PortHarcourt road: Some years ago this major road was a sorry sight.

 

Abia state indigines were highly elated last Friday when PortHarcourt road and several other roads in the state were commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Also commissioned was the remodelled and retrofitted Dr Michael Auditorium in Umuahia.
While Abians celebrate Governor Otti for that great feat, the only people sulking are the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) and other never-do-wells who do not wish the state well. The PDP has remained a bitter but fragmented party since Otti trounced them at the polls in 2023.
But away from that bitterness and bellyaching, Abians are highly excited about the new roads because Governor Otti practically took Aba from the gutters and has fixed almost all the strategic roads. He has also done the same with most roads across the state. 2 years ago, before Otti, Abia was an eyesore, supervised by PDP, a party known for profligacy and mediocrity in the state.
After the commissioning, most Abians took to X to congratulate Governor Otti.
Fortis1o wrote, “My able governor, you are a blessing to Abia State. Many of us will lay down our lives to ensure you complete the good works you have started in Abia State.
Warning detractors, he said, “Let this serve as a warning to the detractors of Abia state working from within. We will not tolerate the betrayal of our homeland.
NgozifireverF responded, “Thank you, Governor @alexottiofr, keep up the good work, humanity will remember you! God bless our indefatigable governor Alex Chioma Otti.
Simonchigozie2 said, Congratulations, sir, on these achievements. Thank you for your visionary leadership sir. You are a blessing to Abia State. Keep it up, our able Governor.
Sparkchain.Ai wrote, “Thank you for the excellent work done on Port Harcourt road however, Ohanku road should have been dualised as that is a major road which traders use and the road leads to different destinations
Just my humble opinion though.
@chibuzo onyema1 said, “Abia is rising and progressing steadily. To God be the glory! Great thanks to Your Excellency, @alexottiofr, for your people-centered leadership.
@Bushjephek wrote, “1can profoundly submit my observations:
1. Alex Otti is working
2. We need to do better as a people (Igbos)
3. A collective destiny we have is to pursue oneness and our self-determination
4. No one is coming to save us.
Akonuche_001 said, “As someone who was born and raised in Aba, I’m really happy to learn that Port Harcourt Road is on the list of roads that have been commissioned. I remember how bad the road was when I was a child and how past governments had abandoned it.
@Father-Fatherjoe wrote, “Able governor, Well done, Sir. I can’t wait to return to Aba. My business was destroyed by the last administration. I packed and left Aba.
@danielnnajide19 said, “Alex Otti is the final product when the right thing is done.
@ VanBeek639006 said, “Thank u very much, Sir You are truly indeed the people’s Governor.
Thank you for coming to the rescue of Abia state. The people of Abia are very happy to have you as their Governor. Your good work is showing, and the people in Nigeria are feeling it. Keep it up, Sir. God bless you.
@Blossom4Good, said, “Well done, Sir. I am pleased that Tinubu didn’t come in person. May GOD continue to strengthen you and give you wisdom, knowledge, and understanding to continue to govern Abia state.
Dr Otti, on Saturday, on his X handle wrote, Yesterday, we had the profound honour of hosting the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. He was ably represented by the Honourable Minister of Works, His Excellency Engr David Umahi FNSE.
The day commenced in Umuahia with the official commissioning of the newly remodelled and retrofitted Michael Okpara Auditorium, now outfitted with state-of-the-art facilities that reflect the aspirations of our people. From there, we proceeded to Aba, where seven strategic roads were formally opened for public use. These include Gabriel Nwosu Street, Nkoro Street, Umuatako Road, Pepple’s Road, Ndoki Road, Ohanku Road, and Port Harcourt Road.
We sincerely appreciate Mr President’s unwavering commitment to the security, economic revitalisation, and inclusive governance of Abia State. His reform agenda, though demanding, is already unlocking new pathways for development across the federation. With sustained collaboration and resilience, we are confident that the future holds even greater promise for our people.
Special thanks to our esteemed guests and distinguished political leaders, who honoured us with their presence, and to Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for delivering Port Harcourt Road in record time. Our appreciation equally goes to the Honourable Commissioner for Works, his dedicated team, and our other partners whose collective efforts have helped transform the infrastructure landscape of Aba.
Most importantly, we thank the good people of Enyimba who turned out in their thousands to welcome Mr. President. Your warmth, energy, and unity made the day truly remarkable.
As a mark of this heartfelt gratitude, the Council of Traditional Rulers of Abia State conferred on Mr. President the revered title of Udo Kpu Enyi I of Abia State, a symbol of peace, strength, and enduring friendship with Ndi Abia.
Together, we are building a New Abia. The journey ahead may be long, but with faith, partnership, and perseverance, we shall arrive at a future full of promise.

DFC Management by — October 6, 2025 in General News 0
Ikeja Electric, Epe community join forces to fight vandalism, improve power supply 

 

In a determined move to combat the growing menace of electrical infrastructure vandalism, Ikeja Electric (IE) held a key stakeholder engagement forum with community leaders, the National Youth Council, security agencies, the Epe LGA, Ikosi-Ejirin, and Eredo LCDAs.

The meeting, held at the Epe Local Government Secretariat, brought together top management from Ikeja Electric and local stakeholders to devise a robust strategy against vandalism, which has significantly impacted power supply in the communities.

The discussion focused on the destructive act and its consequences, some of which include frequent power outages, damage to equipment, disruption of socio-economic activities, health and safety risks.

Speaking at the event, the Ikorodu Business Manager, Emmanuel Iberuche, highlighted the toll of vandalism on the company’s operations. “On the Agbowa line, we have lost 4,700 meters of aluminum conductor, and 9 cases of Distribution Transformer vandalism, costing us nothing less than ₦50 million. This is money that could have been used to improve infrastructure and enhance service delivery.

“We want to work with you to foster a sense of ownership; these assets belong to all of us, therefore we must protect them together for a reliable power supply. A small act of vigilance can prevent a major outage and save your community from days of darkness.” He stated.

Paul Airoboman, the representative of the Chief Security Officer, shared alarming statistics on vandalism in Epe. “Of the 47 vandalism cases Ikeja Electric has experienced this year, Ikorodu Business Unit accounts for 15; 6 of which occurred in Epe. This is a serious concern. We urge community leaders to collaborate with us by engaging vigilante groups, organizing awareness sessions, and reporting security concerns with credible evidence.”

“We are committed to working with our communities to create a fortified front against these criminal elements. With your cooperation, we can ensure that our installations remain safe, and our customers enjoy a stable power supply.”

The Chairman of Epe Local Government Area, Hon. (Princess) Surah Olayemi Animashaun, expressed her unwavering support for the initiative. “The economic growth of Epe is directly tied to a consistent power supply. We will not tolerate criminal acts that undermine our progress. My office will continue to collaborate with law enforcement agencies and community leaders to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.”

Chief Bashorun Abayomi, the Chairman of the Epe LG Community Development Committee (CDC), in his response, appreciated Ikeja Electric’s proactive approach. “Our community leaders are ready to partner with Ikeja Electric to end this menace. We have agreed to establish a community-based surveillance network to report vandals and will also embark on a massive public awareness campaign to educate our people on the importance of protecting electrical infrastructure.”

The Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State Youth Parliament, Hon. Mahruf Odunare, who was also present at the meeting, reiterated the commitment of the community youth to the fight against vandalism. “As the voice of the youth, we are committed to being ambassadors of this campaign. We will take this message to our peers, reminding them of the importance of preserving public infrastructure for our future and the legal consequences of engaging in the dastardly act.”

Speaking on behalf of Ikeja Electric’s spokesperson, the Community and Media Relations Lead, Mrs. Olufadeke Omo-Omorodion, elaborated on the severe punishment for vandalism. “To be very clear, the law is not lenient on vandals. The Electricity Act, as amended, provides for stiff penalties. Depending on the gravity of the offense, a vandal can face a prison term of up to 10 years, or even life imprisonment if their actions endanger lives or cause significant disruption to public order. There is no option of a fine.”

Mrs. Omo-Omorodion urged residents to take an active role in the solution. “We are working closely with security agencies to ensure that anyone caught will face the full wrath of the law. To stay on the good side of the law, we encourage every resident to be a part of the solution. Report any suspicious activity around electrical installations to our safety emergency and whistleblowing hotlines. Your vigilance is our greatest asset in this fight.”

“In addition, we will also focus on increasing sensitization to close communication gaps. More importantly, we aim to improve our understanding with community members to build a more trusting, collaborative relationship where residents see us as a partner, not just a service provider.”

The meeting concluded with a commitment from all parties to form a joint task force to effectively monitor and combat vandalism. This collaborative approach is expected to significantly reduce the incidence of vandalism and lead to a more reliable power supply in Epe.

Ikeja Electric Plc is Nigeria’s largest power distribution network, with a vision to be the provider of choice wherever energy is consumed. The company is focused on providing the best quality service to customers while always adhering to the highest standards of safety.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DFC Management by — October 6, 2025 in Business 0
Aba Reborn: Otti says city ready to roar again as Tinubu commissions Port Harcourt Road, seven others

 

By Foster Obi

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, yesterday declared that Aba, the commercial heartbeat of the South-East, has risen from years of neglect to reclaim its place as Nigeria’s foremost industrial and entrepreneurial hub.
Speaking at a grand reception in Aba Township Stadium to mark the commissioning of Port Harcourt Road and seven other road clusters by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the governor said the event symbolised not just the opening of roads but the rebuilding of destiny.
“Aba, once in ruins, is now back and ready to roar again,” Otti declared to thunderous applause, describing the ceremony as a celebration of the city’s resilient spirit and its rebirth as the engine of regional commerce.
Otti praised President Tinubu for his administration’s support in restoring Aba’s commercial advantage through massive road rehabilitation and federal backing in the fight against insecurity, noting that Abia remains one of Nigeria’s safest states.
“The partnership between Abia and Abuja has brought a new season of joy and warmth to Enyimba City,” he said. “The miracle of Aba’s restoration points to the power of collaboration across political divides.”

He recalled that the reconstruction of Port Harcourt Road fulfilled a major campaign promise, with Julius Berger Plc completing the project ahead of schedule. Built in the early 1980s under the administration of Dee Sam Mbakwn, the road had collapsed after decades of neglect, becoming a symbol of decay before its recent revival. Otti also highlighted the commissioning of seven additional roads — Ohanku, Ndoki, Ajiwe, Umuatako, Gabriel Nwosu, Nkoro, and Peoples Road — describing them as critical economic arteries that would expand trade, create jobs, and catalyse growth.
“These roads are more than infrastructure; they are instruments of destiny,” he said. “Over the next 12 months, the volume of trade between Aba and other business capitals will double.”
The governor disclosed that Abia had launched an export-growth lab to help Made-in-Aba products penetrate international markets and had partnered with Radisson Blu to transform the Enyimba Hotel into a five-star hospitality and convention centre. He added that Aba, once notorious for filth, had now emerged as one of Nigeria’s cleanest cities, thanks to aggressive urban renewal, waste management reforms, and a streamlined land administration system anchored on the C-of-O-in-30-Days policy.
Looking beyond state borders, Otti urged the Federal Government to invest in a Calabar–Enugu rail corridor and optimise seaports in the South-East and South-South to boost exports, cut logistics costs, and expand Nigeria’s non-oil revenue.
He also appealed for federal partnership in developing the region’s vast natural gas reserves, saying the South-East was ready to support national energy security efforts.
“Natural gas has become critical in the new global energy order,” Otti said. “It would be to our national advantage to develop these reserves in ways that protect the ecosystem.”
Governor Otti thanked President Tinubu for honouring Abia with his presence, saying the commissioning marked not just an infrastructural milestone but a symbolic moment of rebirth for the Enyimba spirit.
“Today, we celebrate the rebuilding of destiny,” he concluded. “May God bless Abia State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

President Tinubu was represented at the event by Works Minister, Dave Umahi.

Pictures: At the commissioning. Works Minister, Dave Umahi represented President Tinubu. Abia-born deputy speaker, House of Reps, Benjamin Kalu was also present.

DFC Management by — October 4, 2025 in General News 0
Dantsoho: Abuja, Agro potentials hold key to Nigeria’s non-oil growth

The Managing Director of Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Dr Abubakar Dantsoho has said that the centrality of Abuja coupled with its rich agro-allied potentials is germane to strengthening NPA’s commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s efforts to continuously grow non-oil revenue by connecting local value producers in the non-oil value chain to identified international clusters of demand for their goods.

According to him, the position of Abuja as the centre of the country is strategic to the NPA’s renewed trade facilitation focus that places a high premium on port-hinterland connectivity, which Abuja’s centrality accentuates, presents a seamless linkage with the comparative advantages inherent in all regions of the federation that can be harnessed to sustain growth in the volume and value of Nigeria’s exports.

He said as Nigeria’s foremost trade facilitation platform, the authority is always proud to be associated with the noble cause the Abuja International Trade Fair represents, especially seeing that trade remains the most veritable tool for actualizing most of Nigeria’s economic aspirations.

The NPA MD used the opportunity of the occasion of the “NPA Special Day” to invite the entire trading and investing public to explore the tailor-made simplified export processes and other vistas of opportunity present at the Nigerian Ports Authority.”

He said, “As some of us are aware, in our bid to contribute to the strengthening of the domestic economy through the promotion of balance of trade we established the Export Process Terminal (EPTs) to simplify the hitherto burdensome process of exporting Nigerian goods.”

Dr Dantsoho explained that the EPTs were conceptualized to serve as a one-stop shop for cargo consolidation, stuffing, documentation, packaging, certification, and onward shipment through electronic call-up to the Ports in a quick turnaround time, thus eliminating the duplications and bureaucratic overlaps that previously rendered Nigerian exports uncompetitive in the international marketplace.

He said to facilitate the port-hinterland connectivity and create pathways for Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMEs) to participate in the export value chain; the EPTs have been structured to have a seamless handshake with the Domestic Export Warehouses (DEWs) in synergy with the Nigerian Exports Promotion Council (NEPC) as well as the Inland Dry Ports.

“To align with the economic stabilization resolve of the Federal Government and the theme of the year’s fair ‘Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives and Taxation’ we are unifying our various operational channels into a singular transaction gateway known as the Ports Community System (PCS) which lays the groundwork for the implementation of the National Single Window (NSW) which sustainably eliminates all forms of opacity and attendant delays associated with undue human interference,” he stated.

Dr Dantsoho further explained that the NSW is the global best practice for delivering the greatest value with the greatest ease by connecting all stakeholders in the trade value chain for seamless interaction at the push of a button, saying NPA has put measures in place to link value creators in the remotest part of the hinterland with the farthest clusters of demand anywhere on the globe.

He assured every stakeholder that the doors of NPA are always open for partnerships even beyond the trade fair, urging them to visit the NPA’s fully interactive online, real-time website www.nigerianports.gov.ng to access our growth offerings.

Picture: NPA Boss, Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho

DFC Management by — October 3, 2025 in Transport/Maritime 0
IMO Sec-Gen hails Nigeria’s Maritime Security, Blue Economy Policy

 

 

The Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Domínguez, has lauded Nigeria’s remarkable achievements in maritime security, particularly its success in recording zero piracy incidents for over three years and the groundbreaking Deep Blue Project, which he described as a model for regional cooperation in the Gulf of Guinea.
A statement signed by Dr. Bolaji Akinola, Special Adviser, Media and Communications, to the Honourable Minister of Marine and Blue Economy said Mr. Domínguez, who arrived in Nigeria on Thursday, made the remarks during a courtesy visit to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola.
He noted that Nigeria’s investment in maritime safety infrastructure and the collaboration of its security agencies, especially the Nigerian Navy, have yielded tangible results in combating piracy and maritime crimes. According to him, these efforts demonstrate Nigeria’s leadership and commitment to ensuring safer seas, not just for its own waters but for the wider West and Central African region.
The IMO chief acknowledged Nigeria’s recent submission to the organization outlining its national and regional security initiatives, and while commending the progress made, he stressed the need for continued support in infrastructure development and acquisition of modern equipment. He assured that the IMO would remain committed to providing technical assistance through awareness campaigns, training programmes, and capacity-building initiatives.
In highlighting the organization’s ongoing projects, Mr. Domínguez referenced a regional conference scheduled to be held in Ghana in January on the Safe Seas Project, designed to consolidate contributions from Nigeria and other partner states. He also announced ongoing discussions with the European Union aimed at launching a new maritime governance project focused on ports and security, as well as two regional projects in Southern and Western Africa where progress would be tracked through defined indicators.
Beyond security, Mr. Domínguez emphasized the need for countries to prepare for wider global challenges, including the energy transition, the adoption of biofuels, and financing mechanisms to support training of seafarers, infrastructure development, and the adoption of future fuels. He praised Nigeria’s Blue Economy Policy as a forward-looking initiative for harnessing marine resources sustainably and expressed admiration for the facilities at the Maritime Academy of Nigeria in Oron, especially the training infrastructure. He encouraged greater collaboration between the academy, the Ministry of Education, and industry stakeholders to guide young Nigerians in pursuing maritime careers.
Minister Oyetola, in his address, said the IMO chief’s visit reflected the strength of Nigeria’s relationship with the global maritime body. He noted that Nigeria’s partnership with the Nigerian Navy and other stakeholders had been pivotal in suppressing piracy in the Gulf of Guinea and reaffirmed the country’s determination to consolidate recent gains and expand opportunities in the marine and blue economy. He thanked Mr. Domínguez for choosing Nigeria for the visit and expressed optimism that the discussions would further strengthen bilateral cooperation.
During the visit, presentations were delivered by top government officials and key stakeholders in the sector. The Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Dayo Mobereola, highlighted ongoing reforms and initiatives in security, seafarer welfare, and regulatory frameworks aimed at positioning Nigeria as a leading maritime nation. The Acting Rector of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, Oron, Dr. Kevin Okonna, showcased the academy’s modern training facilities and underscored the importance of international partnerships in cadet exchange and simulator-based training. The Managing Director of the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Mr. Wang Qiang, outlined the port’s role in boosting Nigeria’s cargo handling capacity, creating jobs, and attracting long-term foreign investments.
Mr. Domínguez also interacted with cadets of the Maritime Academy of Nigeria, urging them to embrace emerging opportunities in the maritime sector, particularly in renewable energy, green shipping, and maritime technology.
He reaffirmed IMO’s commitment to working closely with Nigeria to strengthen maritime safety, enhance governance structures, and drive the sustainable growth of the blue economy, noting that the country’s achievements already serve as a model of excellence for Africa and beyond. As issued by the office of the Minister of the Federal Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy
Picture: Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON (left) presenting a souvenir to the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), Mr. Arsenio Domínguez, during the IMO Secretary-General’s visit to Nigeria, on Thursday.

DFC Management by — October 3, 2025 in Transport/Maritime 0
FIDA Marks International Day of Older Persons

…CALLS for stronger protection of Elderly Women’s Rights

 

On the occasion of the 2025 International Day of Older Persons, the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA Worldwide) has called for stronger global action to protect the rights and dignity of older persons, particularly elderly women.
In a statement signed by FIDA’s Global President, Mrs. Ezinwa Okoroafor, the organisation celebrated the invaluable contributions of older persons, describing them as custodians of wisdom, resilience, and lifelong experience. However, it noted that despite their importance, older persons across the world continue to face discrimination, neglect, and barriers in accessing justice and essential services.
“As women lawyers and advocates for human rights, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting the rights, dignity, and well-being of older persons, particularly older women who often experience compounded vulnerabilities,” the statement read.
FIDA urged governments and policymakers to establish robust legal frameworks, inclusive policies, and supportive societal attitudes that promote equality, safety, and empowerment for the elderly.
The statement further emphasised the need to celebrate the wisdom and strength of older persons while fostering a world where aging is met with respect, inclusion, and justice.
Federación Internacional de Abogadas (FIDA) was formally established in Mexico in 1944. The name translates to the International Federation of Women Lawyers.

Picture: FIDA’s Global President, Mrs Ezinwa Okoroafor

DFC Management by — October 1, 2025 in General News 0
SAN conferment: Hon. Nnaemeka Obi congratulates Barrister Uwanna 

 

A former Special Adviser to former Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, Hon. Nnaemeka Godsprince Obi, has hailed the Attorney General of Abia State and former Chairman of the NBA Lagos branch, Ikechukwu Uwanna, on his elevation to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

He said the conferment was not a surprise as the vibrant AG has remained sharp-witted and committed to his duties as the chief law officer in Abia State.

He prayed for more Grace and strength for the legal practitioner to continue to do what he knows best for the overall interest of Abia and its people.

The Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC), approved the elevation of 57 legal practitioners to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).

At its 169th plenary session held today in Abuja, the LPPC, under the distinguished Chairmanship of the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, approved the elevation of 56 advocate appointees and a single appointee under the academic category.

Only two female legal practitioners were conferred with the rank this year; they are the Chairman of the NBA 2024 Annual General Conference Planning Committee, Mrs Oyinkan Badejo-Okusanya, and Mrs Chinyere Ekene Moneme.

Besides Uwanna, other names include the immediate past Attorney General of Nassarawa State and now Secretary to the State Government, Labaran Magaji, the Attorney General of Osun State, Oluwole Jimi-Bada, as well as the Attorney General of Enugu State, Kingsley Udeh.

The youngest appointee on the list is 34-year-old Olufemi Oyewole, who is a partner at a leading law firm and the son of a justice of the Court of Appeal.

DFC Management by — September 29, 2025 in Politics 0
Otti hosts scholarship banquet, awards ₦250,000 each to 50 undergraduates

 

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has hosted a scholarship banquet in honour of 50 beneficiaries of the 2025/2026 Alex Otti Undergraduate Scholarship Programme, presenting each with a cheque of ₦250,000 to support their academic pursuits.

A statement signed by Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor said the annual scheme, which has run for nearly a decade under the Alex Otti Foundation, is designed to support brilliant but financially challenged undergraduates across Nigeria, regardless of state of origin or political affiliation.

Speaking at the event in Umuahia, Governor Otti reaffirmed that the programme is anchored on excellence and transparency, stressing that selection is strictly merit-based through online applications, tests, and oral interviews.

“This is not a political programme. It doesn’t matter whether you know anyone or not; once you merit it, you get it. I urge you to continue to excel, make your families proud, and uphold the values of the Foundation,” he said.

The Governor presented a dummy cheque to the Foundation’s management for onward disbursement of ₦250,000 to each beneficiary, adding that the support would continue annually until their graduation.

In his keynote address, the Rector of Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, Dr. Christopher Okoro, urged the scholars to view education not only as a tool for knowledge but also as the foundation of responsive and effective leadership. He commended Governor Otti for investing in human capital development through sustained scholarships.

Earlier, the Executive Secretary of the Foundation, Mr. Chidiebere Nnanna, described the programme as a springboard for students to build meaningful careers and impact society positively.

Beneficiaries, including Mr. Godwin Ndubuisi and Miss Chinyere Chijioke, expressed gratitude, noting that the gesture eased the heavy financial burden on their parents.

The banquet was attended by senior government officials, parents, and guardians of the scholars.

 

DFC Management by — September 29, 2025 in General News 0
Customs, Manufacturers strike agreement on 4% FOB exemptions, trade facilitation

 

Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) have reached a strategic agreement to exempt manufacturers from the controversial 4% Free-on-Board (FOB) charge and deepen trade facilitation efforts.
The agreement was announced following a high-level consultation between Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and MAN President, Francis Meshioye FR, held in Abuja. The meeting was convened in response to the Ministry of Finance’s directive to suspend the 4% FOB charge and to engage stakeholders under the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023.
The dialogue addressed key concerns raised by manufacturers, including multiple checkpoints, system alerts, and technical glitches on the B’Odogwu platform. MAN also provided insights into operational challenges affecting competitiveness in the sector.
Key Outcomes:
Exemption from 4% FOB charges for manufacturers importing raw materials, machinery, and spares under Chapters 98 and 99 of the Customs Tariff.
Onboarding of additional manufacturers not currently listed under those chapters to benefit from the exemption.
Tripartite consultations between NCS, MAN, and the Ministry of Finance to expedite onboarding and streamline processes.
Credit system for manufacturers who have already paid the 4% FOB charge, allowing future use after onboarding.
Additional exemptions for humanitarian goods, healthcare-related imports, government projects, and commercial airline spare parts.
The NCS also briefed MAN on ongoing trade facilitation initiatives, including the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, Advance Ruling, and Time Release Studies. MAN commended the AEO scheme and called for clear admission guidelines to encourage broader participation.
Both organizations agreed to establish formal consultation mechanisms for regular dialogue on customs policy, proactive feedback systems, and periodic reviews to assess progress and identify new collaboration opportunities.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to Nigeria’s economic transformation through industrial growth, job creation, and export promotion,” said CGC Adeniyi.
“Constructive dialogue like this is essential to building a predictable customs environment that supports manufacturing excellence,” added MAN President Meshioye.
The engagement marks a significant step toward aligning customs operations with industrial development goals, ensuring that regulatory frameworks support national revenue targets while enabling sustainable growth in the manufacturing sector.

Picture: Customs boss, Adewale Bashir Adeniyi

DFC Management by — September 28, 2025 in Transport/Maritime 0
Isuikwuato agog as Hon. Nnaemeka Obi empowers Okada riders 

 

It was a celebration of sorts on Friday, September 26, 2025, as one of Isuikwuato’s emerging stars, Hon. Nnaemeka GodsPrince Obi, excited motorcycle riders, popularly known as Okada riders, operating in the whole local government area by ensuring they all got free fuel.

The free distribution was done at Sane Consult International Limited, a Petrol Station located in Ovim.

The Okada riders were not just elated by the free petrol but by the news that the gift would be given out every month.

The information which spread like wild fire went round the whole local government as the motorcycle riders turned out in their numbers, hailing OBI NNAEMEKA FOUNDATION, the organization that handled the petrol empowerment.

Eyewitness account said all the Okada riders had the OBI NNAEMEKA FOUNDATION stickers on their bikes as a sign of solidarity.

Chairman of Okada riders in Isuikwuato, who mentioned his name as Chibuzo, expressed his appreciation for this gesture and maintained that the Patron, Hon Nnaemeka Obi, is a worthy son.

“We are very happy for this gift and we will support him in any way we can, and anywhere he wants to go.”

However, a Foundation member told him that the gesture is selfless and not because he is contesting any elective post.

The Okada operators maintained a show of solidarity, saying they will come out in mass to back him up if he decides to seek any elective post now or in the near future.

OBI NNAEMEKA FOUNDATION, whose motto is”The Light has Come”, is a philanthropic organization designed to lift the less privileged as well as pursue the well-being of Isuikwuato citizens.

Hon. Nnaemeka Obi, the prime mover of the Foundation said that he is a proud son of Umuokogbuo Eluama in Isuikwuato local government.

He said he created the foundation to give back to society. While the activities kick-started with Okada riders, “it will extend to other persons”, he noted.

Picture: Okada riders filing to take their turns.

 

 

 

DFC Management by — September 27, 2025 in Politics 0