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The Fear of Malta

 Pius Mordi 
In the heat of the allegation by Aliko Dangote that international oil companies and NNPCL were denying his refinery access to Nigerian crude oil to buy, some commentators wondered why Dangote did not do his homework and secure a guaranteed regular supply of crude oil from NNPCL and the IOCs before investing almost $20 billion into building what is reputed as the biggest refinery in the world.
 It’s an unusual assumption to make for a project the Nigerian government had repeatedly touted as the final solution to the spectre of importation of refined products that orchestrated the bleeding of the economy through a nebulous oil subsidy regime.
Apart from banking on it, the federal government had also invested public funds into the project.
 Initially put at 20 percent of the stakeholding, Godwin Emefiele, former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had claimed on May 22, 2023, when then President Muhammadu Buhari initially commissioned the refinery before its completion that the Dangote Group had paid back 70 percent of the loans it took to construct an oil refinery.
But earlier this July, Dangote himself announced that NNPCL’s shareholding has been whittled down over failure to pay the balance of the value of its stake in June.
 “Now, they only own a 7.2% stake in the refinery,” he declared.
On July 29, 2024, Dangote Refinery’s nightmare was summarily resolved.
President Tinubu unilaterally ordered NNPCL to sell crude oil and in naira to the refinery.
 In addition to committing to supply four of the 15 cargoes of crude oil required yearly at a cost of $13.5 billion, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved that the 450,000 barrels allocated for domestic consumption be offered in Naira to Nigerian refineries, using the Dangote refinery as a pivot.
The reprieve for Dangote came after curious but intriguing layers of false claims were put up by oil industry chiefs from NNPCL to undermine and justify their refusal sell crude oil to the refinery.
After the claim that Dangote’s products were inferior to imported ones fell like a pack of cards with the revelation that the refinery’s laboratory had certified that its own products have superior quality to the ones NNPCL imports, a false narrative was invented.
According to the story promoted by the state oil company, due to operational and technical problems, the refinery was reselling crude oil from the United States and Nigeria.
Stating that it is not authorised for it to resell crude acquired in Nigeria, Anthony Chiejine, Dangote Industries Limited spokesman, urged the public to disregard what he termed as false narratives intended to discredit the refinery.
 Not one to shy away from this sort of war being waged against his conglomerate, Aliko Dangote himself fought back.
He pointedly accused those running Nigeria’s oil industry of mischief for personal interests.
 He alleged some personnel of NNPCL, oil traders and terminals have opened a blending plant in Malta, affirming that the areas of the blending plants are known.
 Pointedly, he said “Some of the terminals, some of the NNPC people and some traders have opened a blending plant somewhere off Malta,” he said.
“We all know these areas. We know what they are doing.”
More than the support Nigerians gave to Dangote in the face of the illogical attempts by NNPCL bigwigs to cripple the refinery, his allegation ruffled feathers.
 Although no names were mentioned, top state operatives queued to exonerate themselves.
 Mele Kyari, Group Managing Director of NNPCL, went a step further to dare Dangote to name the culprits.
The billionaire didn’t have to go that far for the impact was instantaneous.
Even Oando plc which Dangote never mentioned got involved.
 In a tweet amplified by Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu’s spokesman amplified, he said Oando, “Nigeria’s leading indigenous oil firm” debunked rumours that its directors are the owners of an oil blending plant in Malta.
The oil business is denominated in dollars with the chain so complex that Nigeria could have earned incomes across various frontiers.
 The National Shipping Policy enunciated by Ibrahim Babangida’s administration had stipulated that Nigerian-owned ships should be involved in the affreightment of crude oil export.
The policy stipulated that they should be allowed to lift at least 50 percent of crude oil exports.
 Indigenous shipping companies have noted that more than $600 million is spent annually for the transportation of crude oil across the oceans.
Enabling them to be part of it could potentially plough $300 million of that back into the economy.
And given that oil is lifted under Cost, Insurance and Freight (CIF) terms, more income could have been earned by Nigeria if local insurance companies were involved in the provision of marine insurance cover.
NNPCL rebuffed every move to involve Nigerian companies in the lucrative, but oily business.
 Tinubu’s intervention is timely and appropriate. The only issue is why it took this long for him to call NNPCL top guns to order.
But having started, he should go the whole hog.
Officials in the behemoth’s reputation for their infamous inclination to shield their operations from critical prying eyes of the public, including lawmakers is legendary.
 They definitely misfired in their latest venture to cripple an organisation Nigerians had pinned their hope on getting refined products at a cheaper rate.
 The cartel is powerful, very powerful. They are richer than Nigeria and the government and can go all the way to maintain the status quo.
President Tinubu should sustain the tempo of his intervention and complete the job.
He should get rid of the present crop of managers of the subsidiaries of NNPCL as well as the behemoth itself and open up the company to public scrutiny.
 Will he, can he?
Mr Pius Mordi is a maritime journalist and an Aide to the Delta State governor
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Aftermath of Adeyanju’s exit, crisis resurfaces in MWUN

Funso OLOJO 
The peace and harmony which the Nigerian ports enjoyed during the momentous eight -year reign of Comrade Adewale Adeyanju as the President General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria(MWUN) may soon be ruptured as there is likely to be a resurgence of crisis within the labour union.
The smouldering crisis was sparked off by a power tussle that has erupted following the  contention for the leadership position at the forthcoming elections into the Dockworkers branch of the Union.
This crack in the otherwise closely – knitted confraternity in the union emerged barely a month after the emergence of Comrade Francis Bunu Abi as the President General of the group.
At the heart of the tension was  the upcoming election into the union’s dockworkers’ branch, a development that has exposed cracks within the union’s hierarchy and raised concerns over the potential derailment of the fragile peace the union enjoyed under Adeyanju’s leadership.
The crisis, which is reportedly rooted in a contentious zoning arrangement, has sparked protests and heightened factionalism among dockworkers.
 Multiple sources within the union confirmed that there was a gentleman’s agreement prior to Adeyanju’s departure that the next president of the dockworkers’ branch would emerge from the Tin Can Chapter.
The incumbent President, Comrade Tajudeen Ohize, is from the ENL Terminal Chapter and is currently completing his second term.
However, that arrangement now appears to be under threat following the sudden emergence of campaign posters for Mr. Bolaji Agboola, a member of the ENL Chapter.
 His entrance into the race has stirred outrage among those who believed the presidency should rotate to the Tin Can Chapter in the spirit of fairness and balance.
The appearance of the posters triggered spontaneous protests last week at several port locations, with union members voicing strong opposition to what they described as attempts to hijack the electoral process.
Protesters also called on former union President, Comrade Tony Nted, to stay away from the elections, alleging external interference.
Adding to the controversy was the alleged support Mr. Agboola enjoys from Princess Vicky Haastrup, Executive Vice Chairman of ENL Terminal, a powerful figure in the maritime sector.
Union insiders alleged that Haastrup is backing Agboola to protect strategic business interests, a claim that has further polarized opinions within the union.
Meanwhile, Comrade Oluwole Adetumi of the Tin Can Chapter, believed to be the candidate expected to benefit from the earlier zoning consensus, is reportedly under pressure to step down, a move that could spark deeper unrest.
Speaking on the situation, Comrade Tajudeen Ohize denied the existence of any crisis.
He stated that the election process remains open and democratic.
“There is no crisis in the industry. Let anyone who wants to contest go to the polls.
“We are not selecting anyone. There is no agreement that someone from any chapter must be chosen,” he said.
On claims that Comrade Tony Nted is trying to influence the election, Ohize dismissed the allegations.
 “Tony has no time for us. Whoever is trying to stir crisis will have himself to blame. We are mature enough to manage our affairs,” he added.
Despite Ohize’s reassurance, anxiety continues to grow within the rank and file of the union.
Many members have called for transparency and strict adherence to internal agreements, warning that any attempt to impose a candidate may destabilize the union.
In response to the escalating tension, President-General of the MWUN, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, issued a stern warning to all aspirants and their supporters.
 In a statement released last week, Abi prohibited the display of campaign materials—such as banners, flyers, and stickers—within port terminals, jetties, oil platforms, vessels, and union offices nationwide.
While affirming members’ rights to participate in the election, he cautioned against campaigns of bitterness and urged all parties to maintain discipline, peace, and decorum.
As the election draws nearer, observers said handling of this internal crisis will be a litmus test for the union’s new leadership and a critical moment in preserving stability across the nation’s seaports.
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NIMASA embarks on digital revolution to plug revenue leakages, enhance optimum operations 

— spurns smear campaign against the process 

Funso OLOJO 
The Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency Agency (NIMASA), has introduced a Maritime Enhanced Monitoring System (MEMS), a digital reform that is set to revolutionise its operations, plug revenue leakages and enhance revenue for government.
According to the management of the agency, the digital system will further  enhance Regulatory Governance and Shipping Development.
But the agency expressed sadness at the efforts of some people whom it regarded as fifth columnists which it said are resistant to change and wanted to scuttle the process for personal gains.
The agency noted that the sponsors of the campaign of calumny against the digital reform are those that were hitherto benefitting from the manual and porous system.
NIMASA disclosed that there was no truth in the wrong narratives being bandied about that the agency has concessioned its operations.
“The management wishes to categorically state that there is no iota of truth in these claims.
” This is the hand-work of some external and internal elements who have conspired to benefit from the current porous system.

“To set the records straight, following a comprehensive internal review of operational systems, the current leadership of NIMASA resolved to embrace technology as a means of enhancing the Agency’s capacity to deliver on its regulatory mandate more effectively and to bring into the coffers of government additional revenue ensure funds due government does not end up in private hands.

“A pivotal innovation in this regard is the Maritime Enhanced Monitoring System (MEMS).

” This system brings digital traceability to the core of Nigeria’s maritime operations.
“MEMS provides real-time visibility into vessel movements, operational logs, and regulatory interactions.
“Through automated alerts, smart invoicing, and centralized data integration, NIMASA can now detect, document, and respond to maritime activities with greater precision and efficiency—eliminating unnecessary bottlenecks while strengthening compliance.

“The additional recipients targeted are, waste reception services, a routine operation for both domestic and international vessels have traditionally lacked proper tracking, resulting in unmonitored activities and significant revenue losses.

” With MEMS, each waste offload can be logged, time-stamped, and automatically billed, converting previously missed opportunities into a consistent revenue stream while ensuring environmental standards are met.

“Marine pollution control, another critical area of NIMASA’s mandate, has similarly been constrained by limited digital tools. In the absence of satellite tracking and automated reporting, pollution events often go unnoticed or are reported too late to mitigate their impact.

“With the integration of modern surveillance systems, digital logbooks, and real-time alerts, NIMASA can now respond swiftly to such incidents, recover environmental damages, and hold polluters accountable—both legally and financially.

“It is important to emphasize that past revenue shortfalls experienced by the Agency mainly stemmed from outdated manual processes, fragmented data systems, and insufficient digital enforcement mechanisms which allowed some external elements to capitalize on the loopholes for personal gains .

“The current reforms being implemented by NIMASA are focused squarely on overcoming these limitations.

” By investing in digital infrastructure and streamlining monitoring systems, the Agency is positioning itself to fulfill its statutory obligations with transparency, efficiency, and accountability.

“The public is therefore advised to disregard the misleading reports and instead support NIMASA’s transformation journey as it aligns with the broader national objectives of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

“The Agency remains committed to strengthening Nigeria’s maritime governance, ensuring environmental safety, and optimizing revenue for the nation.

“It is worthy of note that the Deep Blue Project of the Agency which now enjoys global recognition also witnessed such resistance at the initial stage” the agency noted.

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Oyetola expresses determination to stop granting waiver requests under Cabotage regime

–– vows to resuscitate abandoned National shipping carrier initiative 
Funso OLOJO 
In a determined effort to boost indigenous participation in shipping, the Minister of Marine and Blue economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has vowed not to entertain any request for waivers under the Cabotage regime.
The Coastal and Inland Shipping Act, also known as the Cabotage Act, restricts domestic coastal shipping to Nigerian-owned, Nigerian-crewed, and Nigerian-built or -flagged vessels.
 However, waivers have often been granted to foreign vessels when local capacity is deemed insufficient.
Over the years, these waivers, which are at the prerogative of the minister, have significantly limited the growth of Nigerian shipping companies, depriving them of critical opportunities in the domestic shipping space.
However, speaking recently while receiving a high-level delegation from NNPC Shipping, Stena Bulk, and Caverton Offshore Support Group at the Ministry in Abuja, Minister Oyetola stated his firm resolve to reverse this trend.
The visit comes on the heels of the formal unveiling of Unity Shipping World (USW), a newly formed joint venture by NNPC Shipping, global maritime giant Stena Bulk, and Nigerian offshore service leader Caverton Offshore Support Group.
The joint venture aims to establish a robust tanker operation capable of transporting crude oil, refined products, and LNG within Nigeria, West Africa, and globally.
“The era of indiscriminate waivers is coming to an end,” Oyetola declared.
“We cannot continue to undermine our local capacity under the guise of temporary foreign intervention.
“It is time to build Nigerian tonnage, support Nigerian jobs, and give indigenous operators a fair chance to thrive. That is the only sustainable path to maritime development.”
As part of this renewed focus on indigenous capacity, the Minister had earlier directed the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to immediately commence the process that will lead to the disbursement of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund (CVFF).
The fund, which has accumulated over the years from Cabotage levies, is intended to assist Nigerian shipowners in acquiring vessels and enhancing their operational capacity.
“The disbursement of the CVFF is no longer optional — it is imperative,” Oyetola stated.
“Our indigenous operators must be empowered to acquire modern vessels and effectively render services that have, for too long, been dominated by foreign shipping concerns.
“As we work to bring the waiver regime to a close, this support becomes even more critical.”
In the meantime, the Minister also reiterated his commitment to resuscitate the moribund national shipping carrier initiative which was initiated and later abandoned during the last administration of President Mohammed Buhari
Also speaking during the visit, the CEO of Caverton Offshore Support Group, Bode Makanjuola, described the joint venture between his company, Stena Bulk and NNPC Shipping as a game-changer for Nigeria’s maritime industry.
He said the newly formed Unity Shipping World (USW) will deliver efficient, reliable, and sustainable maritime transport services.
 According to him, the company will focus on building a modern fleet, acquiring both new and existing vessels, and optimizing cost and operational efficiency.
He said USW’s fleet is expected to primarily support NNPC’s logistics requirements, while also catering to the broader energy sector, including other oil producers and traders.
He emphasized the company’s focus on sustainability, safety, and long-term value creation, highlighting the importance of building capacity for Nigerian seafarers.
“This partnership is the culmination of extensive planning and shared vision,” said Makanjuola.
 “It combines local expertise with international best practices to create a maritime powerhouse. Unity Shipping World will proudly fly the Nigerian flag and play a critical role in training and empowering Nigerian seafarers.”
Managing Director of NNPC Shipping, Panos Gliatis, said, “With this strategic alliance, we are enhancing domestic refining, imports, and exports — reinforcing Nigeria’s pivotal role in global energy logistics,” Gliatis said.
Stena Bulk’s President & CEO, Erik Hånell, echoed the sentiments, noting that the venture aligns with his company’s goals.
“We are committed to operational excellence and expanding into key energy markets,” Hånell stated.
 “This partnership supports our long-term strategy while advancing Nigeria’s energy and shipping landscape.”
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