Paragraph 1: Call for Non-Interference and Enhanced Funding for Nigeria Customs Service
Mr. Okey Ibeke, publisher of Maritime Magazine, has strongly advocated for the Nigerian government to shield the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) from political interference, enabling the agency to fully execute its mandate. This appeal was made during an "Iconic Maritime Personality Award" ceremony in Lagos, where the current Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, was honored by maritime media representatives. Ibeke emphasized the necessity of political backing for customs operations to ensure that fiscal policies are uniformly enforced, regardless of an individual’s status or influence. He highlighted the prevalent issue of individuals in positions of authority undervaluing imported goods to evade full duty payments, often resorting to intimidation tactics against customs officers when their illicit activities are challenged.
Paragraph 2: Addressing Funding Gaps and Empowering Border Communities
Beyond political non-interference, Ibeke stressed the urgent need to increase the NCS’s intervention fund, currently set at seven percent. He argued that this amount is inadequate to cover staff salaries and essential capital projects, hindering the service’s ability to effectively combat smuggling and support legitimate trade. Ibeke proposed redirecting the one percent FOB paid for the Import Supervision Scheme to the NCS to bolster its operational capacity. Furthermore, he advocated for empowering communities along border areas, suggesting that economic development initiatives could dissuade residents from engaging in smuggling activities, offering alternative livelihoods.
Paragraph 3: Comptroller-General’s Vision for a Unified Maritime Media
In his acceptance speech, Comptroller-General Adeniyi expressed gratitude for the recognition, highlighting the award’s significance as a first-time event in the maritime industry. He then addressed the fragmentation of the maritime media landscape, urging a consolidation of various beat associations. Adeniyi emphasized the importance of a unified voice for the maritime media, enabling them to address industry issues more effectively and with greater impact. He envisioned a single, powerful body representing maritime journalists, eclipsing the influence of any individual beat association under the Nigeria Union of Journalists.
Paragraph 4: Focus on Journalist Welfare and Stakeholder Collaboration
Adeniyi extended a call to stakeholders to prioritize the well-being of maritime journalists, promising to support initiatives such as insurance coverage and housing schemes. This focus on journalist welfare underscores the Comptroller-General’s understanding of the critical role the media plays in the maritime sector. He emphasized the need for collaboration between the NCS and the maritime media to foster transparency and accountability within the industry. His commitment to supporting journalists aligns with his overall vision for a more robust and ethically sound maritime sector.
Paragraph 5: Endorsements from Industry Leaders and Colleagues
The award ceremony witnessed an outpouring of support and admiration for Adeniyi from prominent figures within the maritime industry. Olaiwola Shittu, former president of the Association of Nigeria Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), credited Adeniyi as a pivotal figure in his own success. Hakeem Olanrewaju, chairperson of the Customs Consultative Council, congratulated the industry for recognizing Adeniyi’s contributions, urging stakeholders to adopt a collaborative approach to support customs operations. This collective endorsement highlights the respect and confidence Adeniyi commands within the maritime community.
Paragraph 6: Tributes to Leadership and Character
Further accolades came from ANLCA Vice President, Prince Olusegun Oduntan, who praised Adeniyi’s leadership style and credited it for the service’s exceeding its 2024 target. Frank Ogunojemite, president of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria, described Adeniyi as a mentor, friend, and a genuinely humble individual. Retired Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Charles Edike, expressed pride in seeing Adeniyi, whom he described as dedicated and respectful, at the helm of the customs service. These personal testimonials paint a picture of a leader respected not only for his professional competence but also for his strong character and interpersonal skills.
