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Crisis brews in maritime industry as truck owners vow to resist imposition of levy by Lagos government.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu
The Eyewitness Reporter
The relative industrial harmony currently pervading the entire landscape of Nigerian Ports may soon be ruptured by the ludicrous plan by the Lagos state government to impose what has been described as illegal fees on truck owners.
The truck owners, through the National Association of Maritime Transport Operators (NAMTOP) and  Council of Maritime  Transport Unions and Associations (COMTUA), have raised the alarm over the impending crisis being perpetrated by the subterranean attempt of  Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation capable of breaching the peace in the maritime transport unions.
Adisa Moshood Olaitan, the President of NAMTOP and  Adeyinka Aroyewun, the National President of COMTUA, in separate letters to the Lagos state Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, complained about the creation and imposition of a committee called Lagos State Trucks and Cargo Committee, contrived by Sola Giwa and the Ministry of Transportation to extort maritime truck owners and their drivers.
In their separate letters addressed to Governor Sanwo-Olu and copied to the IGP, Director of SSS and the Lagos state Attorney General, the two leaders appealed to Sanwo-Olu to intervene in the brewing crisis by calling his lieutenants to order.
The unionists complained of divide and rule tactics of the state ministry of Transportation and Mr Giwa to destabilise the maritime transport unions through the imposition of what they called an illegal committee charged with the collection of the equally illegal harmonised fee.
They reminded the sponsors of the illegal committee that the only legal fee known and accepted by the transport unions was the Wharf Landing fee which came into law in 2007.
They warned that any attempt by the state government and its agents to impose another Levy would set the maritime industry on fire as truck owners and truck drivers would resist the imposed levy with the last pint of their blood.
“I am writing to you today to express my deep concern about the creation of a committee that is aimed at acting against the activities of our unions and associations in the maritime transport industry.
“As a member of this industry, it becomes a matter of concern that despite our protest letter to your office and advice to the Ministry of Transportation against its resolve on the creation of this committee, we received through a letter of appointment from members of the committee a plot against the activities of our association.
“The letter emanating from the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, signed by the special adviser to the governor of transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, whose interest and partisanship have been greatly mentioned in our leadership crisis that resulted in the ongoing litigation, can best be described as a recipe for the crisis and the breakdown of the law and order within our industry and in Lagos State.

“The members of the said committee are also members of the same association where the leadership contest is a subject of litigation.

“The imposition of these individuals under the guise of a committee of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation to supervise the activities of our association is in contempt of a court process, and it’s unacceptable.
“In the letter, part of the committee’s mandate is a collection of harmonised fee. This harmonised fee is not a Lagos State government levy.
” It was agreed upon by unions and associations in our collaboration known as the National Association of Maritime Transport Operators ( NAMTOP) ; as such, the ministry lacks jurisdiction on such collection.
“The only government levy in Lagos State is the wharf landing fee. This fee became law and came into operation as a harmonised fee in 2007 for maritime transport operators and it has since been respected.
” Setting up a committee to “adopt and ensure the payment of a harmonised fee as approved by the Lagos State government” as contained in the “terms of reference” of the said committee is provocative.

“We shall use every legal means to protest against the activities of this said committee which will amount to double taxation, imposition of leadership on our association, contempt of court and conduct that may lead to a breach of public peace.

“We plead with your Excellency, to call Hon Sola Giwa and officers of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation to order” Adisa Moshood Olaitan, pleaded with Governor Sanwo-Olu.
On his part, Aroyewun, the COMTUA National President described the proposed few as double taxation which will bring untold hardship to his members.
“The proposed collection of dues will not only cause financial hardship to the truckers but will also lead to a breakdown of law and order. We truckers are an important part of the economy, and we should not be subjected to such illegal and unjust actions.
“The terms of reference listed for the committee contain the entire content of our agreement as a collaboration.
“This is contained in a letter.
MOT/AG./2937/1/10 of February 13, 2023, signed by the permanent secretary, Engr. Toriola, as attached.
This may be contentious and may lead to a breach of peace.
“The individuals listed as members of the committee lost their bid to head or lead our collaboration in an election.
“Selecting the same person to head a committee with the same terms of reference as our collaboration is seen as a ploy to impose or sponsor these individuals to act in place of our union.
“As a committee established by the government, it is expected that the rewards for its members are the responsibility of the government, not the creation of an extortion avenue under the guise of being harmonised to be paid by truckers.
“This deliberate attempt to cause a crisis is the handwork of the Special Adviser to Mr. Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa.
“There is no need for the divide-and-rule approach of the ministry, as the consequences can best be imagined.
“That the loss of Mr. Lookman Shittu to Mr. Moshood Adisa Olaitan as to the seat of the chairman does not put the association or the industry in crisis but the deliberate attempt by the officials of the ministry to create one.
“That a civil medium for resolving the Chairman issue between Mr. Adisa Moshood and Alh Lookman Shittu is in court in suit ID/7478GCM/2023 and is currently at the stage where counsel for the parties is to address the court on January 31, 2024.
The claim of vacuum as a ground advanced by the ministry to establish the committee is unfounded.
The composition of a committee to act in place of our association is not only illegal as it is in contempt but also does not fall under the purview of the Ministry of Transportation.
“It is shameful that the ministry officials and the Special Adviser could not hide their desperation to impose a looser of an election on a union through an illegitimate committee but in absolute disobedience to the rule of law, proceeding on such action that can set the state on fire.
“We are not disturbed by the “name-dropping” antics of the gang; we are concerned when the governor and his deputy, whose names are mentioned as sponsors of this agenda, keep their silence against our complaints and protests.
“We advise the governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwoolu, to immediately call Hon. Sola Giwa and the officials of the Ministry of Transportation to order, as their actions may set the state on fire.
“It is important that the government take urgent steps to address this issue and ensure that the rights of truckers are protected.
“This will not only prevent a crisis and breakdown of law and order but also ensure that the state’s economy is not negatively impacted.
“I urge you to take immediate action to stop the proposed illegal collection of dues from truckers by the committee set up by the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation.
“Failure to do so may lead to a crisis and a breakdown of law and order in the state” the COMTUA president warned.
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Customs

Customs PR officers dominate NCCSC graduation, clinch overall best honours

Gloria Odion, Maritime reporter 

The Public Relations Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service has recorded a rare academic feat as two of its officers emerged the top graduating students at the Nigeria Customs Service Command and Staff College (NCCSC), Gwagwalada.

At the graduation ceremony for Senior Course 14 held on Friday,June 26th, 2026,  Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) Ridwan Yusuf was named the Overall Best Graduating Student, capping an outstanding performance by winning three additional awards.

His colleague, CSC Nuruddeen Sa’idu, was named the Second Best Graduating Student, completing a remarkable sweep by officers from the Service’s Public Relations Unit.

The double honour highlights the intellectual depth, leadership capacity and professionalism within the Customs Public Relations Unit, demonstrating that its officers excel not only in strategic communication but also in administration, operational management and policy leadership.

Beyond the accolades, the achievement is expected to open another chapter in their careers, as both officers may be retained by the College as Directing Staff, in keeping with the institution’s tradition of engaging its highest-performing graduates to mentor future participants.

If confirmed, the appointments would recognise their exceptional academic and professional abilities while entrusting them with the responsibility of shaping the next generation of Customs leaders, although their absence would be keenly felt within the Public Relations Unit.

The Nigeria Customs Service Public Relations Unit congratulated both officers on their outstanding accomplishments and wished them continued success as they assume greater responsibilities in service to the nation.

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Headlines

Stakeholders hail commitment of NIMASA to welfare of Nigerian seafarers as salaries jump by 150 percent 

 Funso OLOJO, Editor

The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) has won widespread acclaim from key maritime stakeholders for its sustained commitment to improving the welfare, remuneration and professional development of Nigerian seafarers, with reforms that have increased their earning capacity by over 150 per cent.

The commendations came on Thursday, June 25th, 2026 during the 2026 Day of the Seafarer celebration in Lagos, where government officials, lawmakers and labour leaders unanimously applauded the agency’s efforts to reposition Nigerian seafarers for global competitiveness.

Leading the tributes were the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Marine Transport, Senator Wasiu Eshilokin,  Chairman of the House Committee on Maritime Safety, Education and Administration, Khadija Bubar Abba Ibrahim, represented by her Deputy, Uduak Alphonsus Odudou and President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu Abi.

They praised NIMASA for implementing policies and programmes that have significantly improved the welfare, working conditions and international recognition of Nigerian seafarers.

Earlier, the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, highlighted the agency’s strategic interventions, revealing that over 2,459 cadets have been trained or are currently undergoing training in reputable maritime institutions across the world under the Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP).

Mobereola disclosed that Nigerian seafarers’ earning capacity has risen by more than 150 per cent following NIMASA’s successful enforcement of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006 and the integration of the National Joint Industrial Council (NJIC) agreement into the International Transport Workers’ Federation/International Labour Organization (ITF/ILO) wage framework.

The development, he explained, has effectively placed Nigerian seafarers on internationally recognised wage scales and improved their conditions of service.

“At NIMASA, the welfare, safety, security and professional advancement of seafarers remain central to our maritime governance agenda.

“We recognise that protecting and empowering seafarers is not merely a regulatory obligation but a moral imperative and a strategic necessity for sustaining the growth and resilience of the maritime industry.

“In line with this commitment, the Agency has continued to champion strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing the global competitiveness of Nigerian seafarers,” Mobereola said.

He called for stronger collaboration among governments, maritime administrations, shipowners, employers, training institutions, labour unions and other industry stakeholders to build a maritime ecosystem that prioritises safety, dignity, inclusion, wellbeing and professional excellence of seafarers.

According to him, the complex risks faced by seafarers require a collective and sustained response from all stakeholders.

The NIMASA boss described the annual Day of the Seafarer celebration as more than a ceremonial event, saying it should serve as a renewed commitment to ensuring that every seafarer is respected, protected, fairly treated and empowered to realise his or her full potential.

He paid glowing tribute to seafarers for their invaluable contributions to global commerce despite the enormous challenges they confront at sea.

“Beyond transporting cargo, seafarers navigate unpredictable weather conditions, demanding working environments, evolving security threats and increasing geopolitical realities.

“They endure prolonged separation from their families and loved ones while coping with the physical and psychological demands inherent in life at sea.

“Yet they continue to demonstrate exceptional resilience, professionalism and unwavering commitment,” he said.

Addressing Nigerian seafarers and their counterparts across the world, Mobereola added:

“You are not only the backbone of global trade but also proud ambassadors of our maritime nation. Your contributions continue to strengthen the maritime sector, support economic growth and enhance Nigeria’s standing within the international maritime community.”

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Headlines

FG to Shipping Firms: End abuse of Nigerian Seafarers now or face consequences

— as Oyetola vows zero tolerance for poor welfare of seafarers , unveils national carrier plan to boost jobs, sea-time training

Funso OLOJO, Editor

The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to shipping companies, crewing agencies and shipowners against the maltreatment of Nigerian seafarers, declaring that any practice that undermines their welfare, safety and dignity will no longer be tolerated.

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, delivered the warning at the 2026 Day of the Seafarer celebration held in Lagos on Thursday, June 25th,2026, where he reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting Nigerian seafarers and improving their welfare.

The event, themed “Carrying World Trade, Carrying the Risk,” drew key stakeholders from across the maritime industry, including heads of maritime agencies, members of the National Assembly, shipping companies, crewing agencies, ministry officials, maritime labour unions and seafarers.

Speaking through the Director of Maritime Safety and Security in the Ministry, Mr. Makoji Musa, Oyetola said the era of neglecting Nigerian seafarers must come to an end.

“Let me send a clear message to all shipping companies, crewing agencies and employers of seafarers.

“Our seafarers must be treated with dignity, fairness and respect at all times.

“The era of neglecting the welfare of seafarers, denying them their legitimate entitlements, or subjecting them to unacceptable working conditions must come to an end.

“The well-being of our maritime workforce is non-negotiable,” the minister declared.

Oyetola described seafarers as the backbone of global commerce, noting that they facilitate over 85 per cent of world trade despite operating under difficult and often hazardous conditions.

“Behind every successful voyage lies a story of commitment, endurance and sacrifice,” he said.

“Seafarers spend long periods away from their families, work under demanding conditions and navigate increasingly complex operational and security challenges.

“Their profession requires not only technical competence but also courage, discipline and exceptional resilience.”

He stressed that celebrating seafarers should go beyond ceremonial speeches and translate into concrete actions that improve their working conditions, strengthen safety standards and safeguard their rights.

The Minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to advancing maritime safety, security and decent work through reforms targeted at improving maritime education and training, raising certification standards, expanding employment opportunities for Nigerian seafarers and ensuring full compliance with international maritime conventions.

In a major policy announcement, Oyetola disclosed that the Ministry is in the final stages of establishing a national shipping carrier under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.

According to him, the initiative is designed to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign shipping lines, curb capital flight, strengthen indigenous shipping capacity and, crucially, create more employment opportunities for Nigerian seafarers.

He explained that the proposed national carrier would also address one of the biggest challenges confronting Nigerian cadets by providing adequate sea-time training required for international certification and employment.

“The Ministry is finalizing plans to establish a national shipping carrier through a Public-Private Partnership arrangement.

“This strategic initiative will help stem the enormous capital flight associated with the dominance of foreign shipping lines, enhance Nigeria’s participation in international maritime trade and strengthen our national shipping capacity.

“Importantly, the initiative will create new opportunities for Nigerian seafarers by expanding sea-time placements, increasing employment prospects, developing local maritime expertise and providing a sustainable platform for career advancement,” Oyetola said.

The Minister maintained that protecting the welfare and rights of seafarers remains central to the Federal Government’s vision of building a globally competitive maritime sector and unlocking the full potential of Nigeria’s blue economy.

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