Lagos
Port Information
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Port Infrastructure
Until 1975 Lagos was the capital of Lagos state, and
until December 1991 it was the federal capital of Nigeria. Ikeja replaced
Lagos as the state capital, and Abuja replaced Lagos as the federal
capital. Lagos, however, remained the unofficial seat of many government
agencies. The city's population is centred on Lagos Island, in Lagos
Lagoon, on the Bight of Benin in the Gulf of Guinea. Lagos is Nigeria's
largest city and one of the largest in sub-Saharan Africa.
Lagos is the principle port of Nigeria situated on the Gulf of Guinea.
The port is split into three main sections: Lagos, Apapa and Tin Can
Island. The creeks and lagoons are plied by small coastal craft.
The city is the western terminus of the nation's road and railway
networks, and the airport at Ikeja provides local and international
services.
Nigeria's Export Processing Free Zone Scheme - please
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NPA = Nigerian Ports Authority: This
government parastatal owns and operates the Nigerian ports. In Apapa,
NPA charges and collects
quay rent and other ancillary costs from consignees as they own the
import terminals. All the outside bonded/ satellite terminals linked
to Apapa port also work in partnership with NPA. In Tincan Cross Marine
owns their terminal, which has been rented from the NPA for a lumpsum
payable at the beginning of every year. For this reason, Cross Marine
charges quay rent in Tincan, but the consignee's are still expected
to pay administrative fees which is a nominal amount to NPA per bill
of lading. The NPA also charges consignee's through the shipping companies
a negligible amount ( about $2 per 20ft and $4 per 40ft ) being MOWCA
( Maritime Organisation for West and Central Africa) levy.
NMA = Nigerian Maritime Authority: This government parastatal is involved
in protecting the country's maritime interest. Consignee's do not pay
any amount to NMA during the clearing process as all NMA charges are
paid by shipping lines that call Nigerian ports. The increase of NMA
charges in 2003 led to the introduction of the freight tax surcharge
added onto all Nigerian freights. The Federal Government announced
in Dec 2004 that all NMA charges payable by shipping companies will
be scrapped as from Jan 2005, following recommendations from the World
Bank. However, this policy is yet to be implemented.
Lagos Port Rehabilitation Project
Work has commenced on the rehabilititation of the Lagos
Port Complex. The contract has been awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria
Plc. The work kis expected to last 24 months and involves:
Rehabilitation of berths 7-20 including Bullnose 1-2
Rehabilitation of the stacking areas of berths 15-20
Construction of a two storey car park
Construction of Sea Plane Road
Refurbishment of the port lighting system
Improvement of water, power, drainage and other services.
Apapa is Nigeria's largest port and contains a number
of wharfs. A range of commodities are handled at Apapa and include
dedicated facilities for the discharge and loading of wheat, cement,
oil, petroleum, fish, dry cargo and containers.
The container terminal is located at the Third Apapa Wharf extension
and covers and area of 44 hectares. Maximum capacity of the terminal
is 22,000 TEU and served by 6 designated container berths with a quay
length of 950 metres. There is 6,400m2 of covered storage space.
Through OTAL close relationship with its stevedore company
we are able to offer a dedicated cocoa warehouse within the port. This
enables OTAL to effectively handle all cocoa shipment in a safe and
reliable manner. We also have dedicated storage and warehouse space
on and off quay and ours agent has extensive knowledge of the
port and is able to provide a high standard of service.
Tin Can is a self contained port entered through Badagry
Creek via a 200m wide channel which has been dredged to 8.5m. Tin Can
provides 11 berths including seven break-bulk general cargo berths,
one dry bulk cargo berth and two dedicated roro berths (numbers 9 and
10).
Total length over the quays is over 2000 meters and has a maximum
draught of 10 metres - up to 13 vessels can be accommodated at a time.
Berth No 9 has special ro-ro ramps to work the ro-ro vessels. There
are five transit sheds and three warehouses offering a covered storage
area of 54,000m2 and an open storage area of 125,000m2. There are also
5 vehicle parks - each able to accommodate 6000 cars at a time.
To ensure efficient service the port has its own electricity supply
power station with seven sub-stations throughout the port. To maintain
tight security the port has a separate security system with a police
station manned by the Nigeria Police Force backed up by private security
organisations.
Tin Can is linked to Apapa by a road bridge.
Draft at Berth
10m
Draft
at Harbour Mouth
8.5m
No of Deepwater
Quays
11
Total Length
of Quay
2.5km
Cranes
6 electrical portal cranes of 8-10 tonnes with
an outreach of 25-28m
6 mobile cranes of 8-10 tonnes each
Rail Connections
None at Tin Can Island. Only Ijora Wharf (Iddo
Island) and Apapa are connected to the general railway system.
Port town and capital of Rivers state, southern Nigeria, Port Harcourt lies along the
Bonny River (an eastern distributary of the Niger River) 41 miles (66 km) upstream from the Gulf of
Guinea. Founded in 1912 in an area traditionally inhabited by the Ijo people, it began to serve as a
port (named for Lewis Harcourt, then colonial secretary) after the opening of the rail link to the
Enugu coalfields in 1916. Now one of the nation's largest ports, its modern deepwater (23 feet [7
metres]) facilities handle the export of palm oil, palm kernels, and timber from the surrounding
area, coal from Anambra state, tin and columbite from the Jos Plateau, peanuts (groundnuts) from the
northern states, and, since 1958, petroleum from fields in the eastern Niger River delta. Port
Harcourt has bulk storage facilities for both palm oil and petroleum. In the 1970s the port was
enlarged with new facilities at nearby Onne.
Port Harcourt is one of Nigeria's leading industrial centres. The Trans-Amadi
Industrial Estate, 4 miles (6 km) north, is a 2,500-acre (1,000-hectare) site where tires, aluminum
products, glass bottles, and paper are manufactured. The town also manufactures cigarettes, steel
structural products, corrugated tin, paints, plastics, enamelware, wood and metal furniture, cement,
concrete products, and several other goods, and it has truck and bicycle assembly plants. Nigeria's
first oil refinery (1965) is at Alesa-Eleme, 12 miles (19 km) southeast. Pipelines carry oil and
natural gas to Port Harcourt (where there also is a refinery) and to the port of Bonny, 25 miles (40
km) south-southeast, and refined oil to Makurdi in Benue state. Port Harcourt is the site of
traditional boatbuilding and fishing industries and has fish-freezing facilities.
The University of Port Harcourt (1975) and Rivers State University of Science and
Technology (1971, university status 1980) serve the town, and nearby Onne is the site of the Nigerian
Naval College. Port Harcourt is the starting point of the eastern branch of the Nigerian Railways main
line and also of the trunk highway network serving eastern Nigeria. There is an international airport
located 7 miles (11 km) northeast along the road and railway to Aba.
Nigerian Ports Authority Restored
The Federal Executive Council approved the restoration of the Nigerian
Ports Authority to its original position, according to an announcement
by the Minister of Transportation, Mrs Diezani Alison Maduekwe. She
said this reversed the decision of the last administration, which
created the Western Ports and Harbours Authority and the Nigerian
Delta Ports.
FG Appoints New MD For NPA
The Nigerian government have appointed Abdulsalam Mohammed as the managing
director of the Nigerian Ports Authority [NPA] effective 12/11/07.
Until his new appointment, Abdulsalam was the managing director of
the now defunct NPA, Western Ports. [DT 14/11/07]
Nigeria: Ports - Is 48-Hour Clearing Possible?
Over the last year the operation of Nigerian Ports have been concessioned
to private firms. This was part of the sector reforms embarked upon
by President Obasanjo's administration. It aimed at efficiency of
port operations and reduced cost of services. Having launched the
concessioning, the government has expressed publicly its ambition
to achieve a 48-hour clearing of goods at the ports. However, in
reviewing the reform, stakeholders take a critical view particularly
of the 48-hour efficiency drive. Experts debate whether this is achievable
and what variables are required to make efficiency at the ports expectation
- fulfilled?
Though there has been much noise about ensuring efficient port service
delivery, the problem of attitudinal change still persists to drive
the process. How can 48 hours clearance of goods be achieved when lack
of skilled manpower and cargo handling equipment has not been resolved
and when port systems are characterized by documentation errors particularly
as most operations are not automated. The issue of wrong declaration
of goods and corruption on the part of the Nigeria Custom Service and
high operational cost, which is why most importers prefer using other
neighbouring ports also needs be addressed before efficient service
is delivered. Something also needs to be done to de-congest the traffic
situation at the ports and to get the railways working. The unending
dock labour unrest, which most times cripple port activities should
also be giving a serious thought.
The fact is that 48 hours clearing cannot be achieved in isolation.
The root causes of delay can include multiplicity of agencies, slow
responsiveness of customs to valid documentation and non-deployment
of end-to-end systems. The shippers and freight forwarders equally
have to be more efficient and strictly regulated. Facilities such as
power, equipment [cranes/pay loaders] and other items such as barges,
tug boats must be efficient. No matter the plans to fast tack the clearing
of goods from the ports, unless these issues are tackled the scheme
is doomed to fail. [VAN 18/11/07]
Kano Exports Processing Zone to Be Commissioned in 2009
According to the Minister of Commerce, Alhaji Ahmed Garba Bichi, the
Kano Export Processing Zone project will be completed and commissioned
by the end of 2009. So far, 48 foreign investors have declared intention
to invest in the zone. [DT 07/11/07]
Lagos Apapa - Terminal Progress Report
Apapa terminal is seeing increased productivity in the terminal with
congestion easing and block stacks and delays reduced.
The following are being implemented with this in mind:
· The terminal has leased an additional 4 reach stackers to
accommodate the increase in and backlog of volumes
·
The terminal has reached an agreement with NPA, NCS, & ANLCA for
24/ 7 operations for direct deliveries - It is possible to take deliveries
at night and weekends as well
·
The terminal will provide a list of containers which are made available
for Customs examination. This is expected to assist in location of
containers in the examination bay.
·
The terminal is making record gate - outs
·
Increase in Physical Inspection Area of approx 500 TEUs through availability
of Shed B
·
Increased stemming of boxes to Inland Container Depots [ICDs]
·
Limitation imposed on entry of empties return to conserve yard space
·
Efforts made to maximize empty loadings
·
Requests for Customs exam to be processed the very next day
·
Request consignees to collect TDOs during office hours and make use
of night deliveries and weekend deliveries
·
Customs Examination is available during weekends. Clearing Agents and
Customs have agreed to be present on weekends
·
Customs have agreed to scale of exam and thus will examine only a few
boxes in a B/ L with multiple boxes with homogenous cargoes
·
The terminal is requesting customs to implement random sampling and
thereby reduce the pressure to physically examine boxes [ie: Request
for a lower than the current demand for 65-70% examination requirement].
[Apapa Terminal 29/11/07]
Minister Calls for More Free Trade Zones
The Minister of Commerce has called for the establishment of more free
trade zones and will partner with Greece in developing such zones.
The Minister noted that Greek companies like Paterson Zochonis [PZ],
and Leventis have helped reposition the Nigerian economy. [DT 07/11/07]
Government Designates 9th Mile As Free Trade Zone
Enugu State Governor, Sullivan Chime has said his government will establish
a free trade zone at 9th Mile Corner, one of the major towns that
links the state with the North. [TD 02/12/07]
Britain-Nigeria Trade Figures
£m £m
UK Exports to Nigeria - September 2007 65.9
UK Exports to Nigeria - Year to date September 2007 678.0
Comparative figures for 2006 - Year to date September 620.4
% change 9.3
UK Imports from Nigeria - September 2007 42.1
UK Imports from Nigeria - Year to date Nigeria 2007 224.6
Comparative figures for 2006 - Year to date September 171.4
% change 31.0
Source: Department for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform
[BERR], based on data from HM Revenue & Customs. [28/11/07]
Decongestion of Port Roads
Minister of Transportation, Diezani Alison-Madueke has commended the
Task Force on Decongestion of Federal Roads in Lagos, for ridding
roads leading to Lagos Port Complex of wrongfully parked trailers.
A committee was set-up in May 2007 to address the problem who identified
four causes namely:
· enhanced ports activities after concessioning resulted in
100% growth in vehicular traffic moving in and out of the ports
·
de-regulation of down stream sub-sector of the petroleum industry,
resulting in the emergence of over 30 tank farms enroute to the ports
·
tank farms lacked parking or holding bays, leading to spill-over of
waiting vehicles on both service and main lanes of the roads, with
most, indiscriminately parked on the roads and bridges
·
relatively poor conditions of port approach and access roads including
portholes, flooding and road failure
The committee recommended a three phase approach:
I. clearing and securing right of ways, removal of illegal vehicles,
instituting appropriate traffic management measures, setting minimum
conditions for vehicles permissible into Ports among others
II. instituting and enforcing provision of holding bays by Tank farms,
planning for better and well maintained ports access and approach roads,
use of rail facilities by tank farms in Dockyard road Apapa
III. construction of trailer parks, development of port rail links
and repairs and use of local refineries for petroleum products
It is also hoped in the next few years separate trailer parks will
be built to decongest port access roads and to realize a certain amount
of revenue which can be reinvested. [DC 23/11/07]
Government To Privatise Lagos-Benin Road
The neglected Lagos-Ibadan and Shagamu-Benin express roads will be
privatised next year, according to Minister of Transport Diezani
Allison-Maduekwe. The Onitsha-Asaba and the Bangana-Benue bridges
will also be privatised. The minister explained that contracts for
the privatisation under the government’s Private Privatisation
Programme [PPP] had been awarded and presented a N102-billion budget
for the Ministry of Works. [BD 05/12/07]
Navy to Beef Up Security in Bonny
Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ganiyu Adekeye has said that the
navy would beef up security around the Bonny sea to curb the problems
of piracy. [TD 24/11/07]
House of Reps Commends Intels Over Onne Port
Members of the House of Representative Committee on Marine Transport
have commended Intels Nigeria, one the nation's ports concessionaires
over its efforts towards repositioning Onne port. Onne Port manager,
Henry Cline stated the port had recorded an improvement in revenue
generation to the tune of N16.7 billion since the concession. The
figure when compared with the preceding period reflected an increase
of over N4 billion. Efforts of Intels in creating a conducive environment
in the zone have continued to attract local and foreign investors
to establish relevant businesses in the area. Intels deputy General
Manager, Chuks Ihuona estimated investment by companies operating
within the zone at over US$3 billion. [DC 23/11/07]
Customs Ranked 93 in World Bank Survey
Nigerian Customs has been ranked 93 out of 150 countries in a new World
Bank survey. The survey, which highlights shipping inefficiencies
in developing countries and the global trading opportunities missed
as a result, found that Nigeria is woefully lagging behind. [TD 07/11/07]
BAT Donates Vehicles To Customs
British American Tobacco Nigeria Ltd [BAT] is reported to have donated
ten four-wheel-drive Ford Ranger trucks to the Nigerian Customs Service
[NCS] to aid their operational activities. The company also signed
a Memorandum of Understanding with the NCS seeking cooperation and
partnership.
Cross River Govt Signs US$36m Monorail Contract
Cross River State government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding
[MoU], with the Nigerian Railway Corporation [NRC] for the construction
of US$36 million monorail. The monorail project is expected to link
the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar with Tinapa Business
Resort. The 12km monorail project is expected to decongest traffic
within Calabar metropolis. [Leadership 16/11/07]
Government Creates Roads Fund Authority
To ensure timely and predictable funding for road development, the
federal government has approved the establishment of a road fund
and Federal Roads Authority [FRA]. The minister of transportation,
Diezani Alison Madueke, said the fund would be used for the maintenance
of existing road assets, followed by the development of a legal instrument
into which dedicated revenues would be deposited to execute road
projects, periodic maintenance and rehabilitation work. The FRA would
be responsible for the management of the federal roads network, including
planning, designing, implementation and maintenance of roads. [Leadership
20/11/07]
Gwagwa, Jiwa, Gwi Roads to Be Rehabilitated
Plans have been concluded to rehabilitate Gwagwa, Jiwa, Gwi and Kabusa
roads in 2008. [Leadership 22/11/07]
World Bank Intervenes In Lagos-Benin Road
The World Bank has reiterated its commitment to assist Nigeria with
N240-billion for the rehabilitation of Lagos-Shagamu-Ibadan-Benin
road projects. Anil Bandari, World Bank senior adviser on Africa
transport, said the mission in Nigeria was preparing a project, which
would be approved very soon by the World Bank. The assistance would
form part of a larger programme to rehabilitate all the unity roads
that have been prioritised by the Federal Government. [BD 29/11/07]
NITT to Get N500m Transport Simulator Centre
Dr Vandu Chikolo has stated that the federal government has awarded
a N500 million contract for the construction of transport simulator
centre at the Nigerian Institute for Transport Technology [NITT],
Zaria to train transport personnel. [DT 13/11/07]
FG to Review Laws Governing Port Agencies
Operation
The Federal Government is set to review all the laws relating to the
operations of various agencies in the nations port. Minister for Transportation,
Mrs Diezani Madueke, criticized the poor state of infrastructures in
the port and expressed the Governments desire for an efficient port
clearing system which has been to date marred by the lack of interconnectivity
among key operators. Until the appropriate synergy among all the parties
involved in the trade transactions is established i.e. Central Bank,
commercial banks, destination inspection agencies, shipping companies,
customs, terminal operators and freight forwarders, international trade
will still be conducted at a sub-optional level of professionalism.
Madueke further condemned the application of excessive tax regime and
multiple levies, saying that it makes maritime trade an unprofitable
venture. [VAN 25/10/07]
FG Soon to Return NPA to Status Quo
According to local reports in the LEADERSHIP there are strong indications
that the federal government may bring back the Nigerian Ports Authority
(NPA) as one entity, as against the present two administrative structures
of the nation's fifty-two year-old ports authority; namely the NPA
(Western Ports) and NPA (Eastern Ports)*. Reliable sources at the
Federal Ministry of Transportation said that the reversal was part
of the decision of the present administration to take a critical
look at the port reform programme of former President Obasanjo. The
present management system has been described as an illegality, especially
as the Act establishing NPA has not been repealed accordingly.
The government is also expected to review the concessionaires who
have taken over the nation's port terminals. Maritime operators have
expressed joy at the impending review of the port concession exercise
which majority of them have described as fraudulent and against the
overall interest of the economy. The administration of former President
Obasanjo, they insist, carried out the reform exercise without due
regards to public opinion and without the enabling legal/regulatory
framework. [Leadership 20/10/07]
*By that creation, the seaports in Lagos , including Lagos Port Complex,
Apapa and Tin Can Island Port are controlled by NPA, Western Ports,
whilst NPA Eastern Ports, controls Warri, Port Harcourt, Onne and Calabar
ports.
Protesting Dockworkers Paralyse Port Operations
On 18/10/07 port workers disrupted normal activities at the Lagos seaports
in what the President of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, (MWUN),
Onikolease Irabor, described as a necessary protest against poor
work conditions by the new terminal owners. The dockworkers barricaded
all major entrances into the seaports at the early hours of the day
chanting anti-concession slogans as they called on the Government
to urgently address their grievances.
According to the labour leader, the workers had sent a 21-day ultimatum
to the operators to address their grievances or face a strike, copying
their note to all relevant government agencies. The ultimatum was later
suspended to allow a governmental committee time to address the issues.
[DT 22/10/07]
Strike Creates Congestion
The recent strike at Lagos port has caused a backlog of uncleared containers
and congestion at the Lagos Port Complex. The Secretary General of
the Western Zone of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs
Agents Mr Obi Okonkwo stated over 5,000 containers ready for delivery
are currently trapped in the terminal. Okonkwo stated that while
the government is proposing a 48-hours cargo clearance time, it is
taking the terminal operator three weeks to locate a container, thereby
taking the port system back to the days of pre-concession. [VAN 01/11/07]
Customs Wants 48-Hour Clearing Time for Cargos
The Nigeria Customs Service will ensure that all cargos stay no longer
than 48 hours at the port to ensure imports are cleared and dispatched.
Nigeria Customs has initiated talks with the clearing agents including
banks, shippers etc, to ensure that it achieves the 48-hour deadline
for clearing of goods. A new Accelerated System on Customs Documentation
and Administration - ASYCUDA ++ will be implemented with this in
mind along with full automation of cargo manifests. Shipping lines
have already been requested to provide documentation in the required
format. [Leadership & OTAL Local Agent 26/10/07]
New Transport Minister
Mr Felix Hassan Hyat was sworn is as Minister of State for Transportation
at a State House ceremony on 24th October. [BNBC 25/10/07]
Nigeria Needs $510 Billion to Develop Transport Sector
As part of the Overview of 2020 Vision, Governor of Central Bank of
Nigeria (CBN), Professor Chukwuma Soludo, said that Nigeria would
need to inject about $510 billion over the next 15 years, devoid
of private sector funding, in the provision and maintenance of rail
lines, road construction network and waterways to fully develop the
transportation sector. [TD 30/10/07]
Nafdac to Clampdown On Salt Dealers
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)
are mandating salt manufacturers and importers to phase out 25 kg
bags of salt and produce only small pack sizes of 1kg. As from 01/01/08
25kg bags are at risk of confiscation. [DT 31/10/07]
Extra Checks Causing Cargo Delays
The Federal Operations
Unit (FOU) of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has been present at
Lagos Airport throughout October, carrying our
checks for contraband and non Form M cargo. The FOU is also carrying
out an additional examination of cargo after SAHCOL and NAHCO Terminal
based customs officers have cleared the goods. It is not known for
how long the additional checks will continue, but they are reported
to be causing some delays and congestion. [BNBC 25/10/07]
Lagos Earmarks N15bn for 11 Roads in Apapa
Lagos State government is to spend N15 billion to construct 11 roads
in Apapa. The roads will be constructed by Julius Berger within the
next two years. [TD 01/11/07]
Britain-Nigeria Trade Figures
£m £m
UK Exports to Nigeria - July 2007 81.3
UK Exports to Nigeria - August 2007 119.6
UK Exports to Nigeria - Year to date August 2007 612.2
Comparative figures for 2006 - Year to date August 545.0
% change 12.3
UK Imports from Nigeria - July 2007 65.8
UK Imports from Nigeria - August 2007 41.4
UK Imports from Nigeria - Year to date August 2007 182.6
Comparative figures for 2006 - Year to date August 166.2
% change 9.8
Source: Department for Business, Enterprise & Regulatory Reform (BERR),
based on data from HM Revenue & Customs. [24/10/07]
Nigeria Commences Campaign for IMO Council Seat
Nigeria has started her campaign for the Council seat of the International
Maritime Organisation (IMO) in the forthcoming election slated for
next month. Nigeria is now lobbying its counterparts campaigning
in Cotonou, where the Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration
and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Dr. Shamsideen Dosunmu, led a Nigerian
delegation on a visit to officials of the Ministry of Transport.
The importance of the election, is to give Nigeria a say in the policy
and decision making activities of the world's maritime apex regulating
body, stressing that with its presence in the Council, the sub-region
would be adequately represented.
The IMO is made up of 148 member countries categorized as A, B and
C. Nigeria is seeking election in the C category. The IMO Council election
will be held in London at the 25 Regular Assembly [19-30 November,
2007]. Liberia is also contesting for a Council seat in the same election.
Onne Port Sees Improved Revenue Levels
Between June 2006 and July 2007, Onne Port complex, has recorded a
revenue of N16.7 billion. This is a marked increase of over N4 billion
compared to the preceding period of June 2005 and July 2006. [VAN
25/10/07]
MT Efunya Sinks at Lagos Port
On 14/10/07 the MT Efunya sank at the marina end of Apapa port due
to neglect and corrosion. Although no life was lost, efforts are
being made to evacuate the vessel from the waters to limit navigational
threat to other vessels. [Van 17/100/7]
Nigeria Accounts For 0.7% Share of Global Exports
The European Commission has declared that Nigeria accounts for 0.7%
of global exports and 0.4% of global imports. The Commission added
that though Nigeria accounted for about 60% of West Africa's external
trade, it's trade was limited both in terms of products and destination
markets. Fossil fuel products are by far the dominant export, making
up about 94% of exports toward the EU in 2006, followed by food stuffs
and animal products at about 3%. It explained further that the EU
absorbed about 22% of all Nigeria's exports and accounts for 25%
of its trade there by making Nigeria second only to the US. The EU
also expressed the belief that Nigeria could benefit greatly from
an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which provided the time
and space to learn and grow before having to deal with the full weight
of global competition. It observed that being part of globalised
economy was widely regarded as essential to economic growth. [TD
24/10/07]
India, In Search Of Fresh Economic Ties
Indian prime minister, Dr. Mammohan Singh pledged his commitment to
improving the existing trade and business relationships between India
and Nigeria. Following a 3-day state visit Singh signed MOUs on foreign
investment opportunities in both petro-chemicals and steel development.
[VAN 20/10/07]
Nigeria / Ghana Customs Strengthen Ties
At the launch of the Abidjan-Lagos Transport and Transit Facilitation
Programme, the Nigeria Customs Service [NCS] and its Ghanaian counterpart
agreed to strengthen its relationship and cooperation in order to
implement ECOWAS policies and programmes as well as other international
conventions on trade facilitation.The cordial relationship between
the two customs services has witnessed a boost under the management
of Jacob Buba, Comptroller of Nigeria Customs Service and Commissioner
Emmanuel Doku of Ghana. Buba, urged Ghanaian customs to ensure strict
compliance to the provisions of the just signed MoU on facilitation
of transport and trade along the Abidjan-Lagos corridor, assuring
Nigeria's full compliance. [DC 24/09/07]
Nigeria Draft Tax Policy Sees VAT Hike To 15%
Nigeria is considering tripling Value Added Tax (VAT) while reducing
tax on companies and individuals over the next 2-3 years in an attempt
to curb tax evasion and encourage growth. A draft tax policy made
public on 09/10/07 recommends increasing VAT to 15% by 2009 or 2010
from 5% now. Company income tax would decrease to 20% by 2009 from
30% now while personal income tax would be cut to 17.5% by 2009 from
a top rate of 25% now, under proposals contained in the document.
[Reuters 10/10/07]
Cargo Defence Fund Mobilises Shippers
Determined to ensure that its benefits are maximally utilised by importers
and exporters, the Cargo Defence Fund [CDF], has begun mobilisation
of importers and exporters with the aim of educating them on the
services offered by the Fund. The CDF met with Shippers Associations,
City Chambers of Commerce and governments in Kano, Kaduna, Zaria
and Katsina. The Fund, which is an initiative of the Nigeria Shipper's
Council, to assist the logistics and processes involved in importation
and exportation, including legal and insurance services, was available
to all stakeholders and urged the business community to subscribe
to the ideals and services of the CDF. Already the CDF has concluded
plans to build dry ports in several parts of the country as a way
of reducing the present pressure on the nation's sea ports. [TD 09/10/07]
Maritime Authority – 20th Anniversary
The National Maritime Authority (NMA) created in 1987, which has since
metamorphosed into the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety
Agency, is 20 years this year. [VAN 21/09/07]
Delta Plans Economic Free Zone in Koko
In a bid to increase commercial activities in the Delta ports, the
Delta State Government is planning to establish a Koko Free Zone
(KFZ) in the state. Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Mrs.
Chinwe Monu-Olarewaju, said that the government was working towards
attracting exporters and importers to utilise the ports. The state
has five ports, namely: Burutu, Forcados, Koko, Sapele and Warri.
[VAN 05/10/07]
Lagos Set to Launch Truck Terminal
The Lagos State Government is set to launch the long awaited, first
phase of the Orile truck terminal. The terminal was designed to accommodate
about 550 tanker vehicles at a time. Commissioner for Transportation
Prof Bamidele Badejo disclosed that all arrangements have been concluded
for the launch of the terminal. [VAN 08/10/07]
House Committee Assures Shipper's Council On Funding
The House of Representatives Committee on Marine Transport, has assured
the management of the Nigerian Shipper's Council (NSC) of support
for adequate funding, to enable it carry out its responsibilities.
[L 12/10/07]
Lagos Awards Construction of 11 Roads At N32bn
The Lagos State Government has awarded contracts for the construction
of 11 dual carriage road networks in Alimosho Local Government Area
of the state at a cost of N32billion. [VAN 04/10/07]
Aviation Workers to Go On Strike On Oct 21
The Aviation Unions Grand Alliance (AUGA) has advised workers in the
sector to block Nigeria's airspace as from midnight of Oct. 21.The
action follows the non payment of entitlements due to the union workers
of the liquidated Nigeria Airways. In other news the World Bank has
approved a credit of $46.65 million for Nigeria's air transport safety
and security project. [L 14/10/07]
BPE, Concessionaires, Transport
Ministry in Talks Over Ports Bill Port concessionaires have commenced discussions with the
Bureau of Public Enterprises [BPE] and the Federal Ministry of Transport
on
how
to ensure that the Ports & Harbours Bill is passed by the National
Assembly. The Nigerian Ports Authority [NPA] is also reported to
be involved in the discussions.
BPE mid-wifed the concession programme and handed over the terminals
to the private operators in January 2006, but the exercise has yet
to receive the approval of the Assembly. The bill was put forward during
the tenure of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, but did not go beyond the first
reading.
The concessionaires who took over the port have been operating for
1.5 years without an instrument to accord their operations the necessary
legal backing. Many have invested heavily to upgrade the terminal buying
cargo-handling plant and other equipment. It is noted that the Customs & Excise
Management Act [CEMA] has given legal backing to the operators of bonded
terminals, so surely the same thing should be done for the private
terminal operators. [VAN 13/09/07]
Shippers Seek Linkage of Rail to Ports
Ahead of the expected rejuvenation of the rail system, the Nigerian
Shippers Council [NSC] has recommended that multi-modal links from
the port should be put in place. Rail and road networks should be
built to connect with the Inland Container Depots [ICDS]. The NSC
has urged the government to also set up and strengthen the National
Transport Commission [NTC], by appointing professionals to run the
sector and make recommendations for improvement of physical infrastructure
within the country. The recommendations were part of a workshop recently
organised by the Cargo Defence Fund [CDF]. [TD 28/08/07]
Niger Delta Crisis May Jeopardise Nigeria's Maritime Council Aspiration
The lingering Niger Delta crisis, apart from costing the country much
revenue, has placed a heavy burden on Nigeria's chances of entering
the International Maritime Organization [IMO] Council. According
to Willy Azu, Nigeria's representative at the IMO, the nation's aspiration
to be in the council of the IMO will not be realized unless the lingering
Niger Delta crisis is finally resolved. [DT 21/08/07]
Curfew Extended On Nigerian Oil City
Authorities cracking down on violence in southern Nigeria's oil capital
Port Harcourt have for the second time extended a curfew in the city.
The length of the imposed curfew was not specified however the timing
of the curfew has been relaxed slightly now effective from 21.00
instead of 19:00 and running through to dawn. The curfew in the main
city of the Niger Delta was put in place mid August after the military
battled local gangs, leaving dozens of people dead.
Contract For Dredging Bonny Channel
The Minister of State for Water Transportation, Prince John Okechukwu
Emeka, has signed a $65 million contract with Nigerian Liquefied
Natural Gas (NLNG), Nigeria Port Authority (NPA) and the Bonny Channel
Company (BCC) to expand the channel in Rivers State. The minister
is reported to have said that the project will be funded by NLNG
but that repayment would be on a 60% (NLNG) / 40% (NPA) amortisation
arrangement on port dues of NLNG tankers. Bonny Channel Company,
a joint venture between NPA and a consortium of technical partners
led by Dredging International, is to execute the project, which is
expected to be completed within 24 weeks after mobilisation to site.
The channel is to be deepened from 12.5 metres to 14.3 metres and
widened from 215 metres to 230 metres to facilitate handling of deep
draught tankers. [BNBC 18/09/07]
Import Concessions Suspended
Tax concessions and waivers granted to importers have been suspended
by the Government according to a press report quoting Nigeria’s
Minister of Finance, Dr Shamsudeen Usman, who said the policy will
remain in force pending an audit of existing beneficiaries. He said
the President was embarrassed by colossal revenue loss resulting
from abuse of the concessions. The Nigerian Customs Service is said
to have lost about N20 billion during the last seven months because
of the concessions. [BNBC 30/08/07]
Forms ‘M’ No Longer Required For
Free Zones
The Central Bank of Nigeria has issued a circular stating that registration
of a Form M for processing applications for imports by licensed operators
in the Free Trade and Export Processing Zones is no longer required.
However all imports from these zones into Nigerian Customs territory
will continue to be under the existing domestic foreign exchange
regulations and guidelines on imports, procedures and documentation
under the Destination Inspection Scheme. [BNBC 30/08/07]
Liberalisation Of Unconfirmed Letters Of Credit
Central Bank of Nigeria [CBN] circular TED/FEM/FPC/GEN/01/088 announced
that restrictions on the use of unconfirmed letters of credit for
the import of raw materials, spare parts and machinery required for
the manufacturing sector have been eased and extended to all imported
items, subject to CBN approval of facility limits for individual
banks. Negotiation is to be with inter-bank funds and effected within
90 days from date of shipment. [BNBC 30/08/07]
Soncap List Of Regulated Products Updated
Central Bank of Nigeria [CBN] circular TED/FEM/GEN/FPC/01/021 dated
30/07/07 announced changes to the list of regulated products. Oral
hygiene appliances up to a maximum wattage of 500W, excluding toothbrushes,
have become subject to SONCAP. The regulations have been extended
to include all types of water purifiers excluding chemical based
units. Importers should comply with both NAFDAC and SONCAP requirements
for motor lubricating oil and petroleum based products for use in
vehicles, paints, varnishes, thinners, putties and related products,
and adhesives including adhesive tapes and glues, but excluding plasters
for medical purposes. Certain fertilisers, condoms and contraceptives,
baby diapers, sanitary pads and similar products have been de-listed.
[BNBC 30/08/07]
TICT To Be Renovated
The TCIT is to have the floor re-paved. Please note 30% of space will
be unavailable for about 9 months.
New Cotecna Appointment In Nigeria
Mr Tayo Rabiu has been appointed Managing Director of Cotecna Destination
Inspection Ltd in Nigeria in succession to Mr Bosco Karingithi, who
has been appointed Regional Vice-President of Cotecna Inspection S.A.
and will be based in Accra with special responsibility for Ghana and
Nigeria projects. [BNBC 17/09/07]
NEPZA Seeks Collaboration With NPA
The Nigerian Export Zones Authority [NEPZA] has sought the collaboration
of the Nigerian Ports Authority, [NPA] Western Ports, for the development
of a port at Olokola, Ondo State for use by vessels expected to operate
at the Free Trade Zone. [VAN 06/09/07]
NCS & Nimasa Sign MOU on Trade Facilitation
The Nigeria Customs Service [NCS] and the Nigerian Maritime Administration
and Safety Agency [NIMASA] signed a Memorandum of Understanding [MoU]
with a view to facilitating trade in Nigeria.The signing ceremony
is the conclusion of a process started about six months ago following
a move initiated by the management of NIMASA to explore working collaboration
with other Agencies of government in the maritime industry. [VAN
06/09/07]
Government to Provide Parks for Tankers, Trailers
In a bid to rid roads leading to and from Lagos ports of indiscriminate
parking by trailer and tanker drivers, the Lagos state government is
set to partner with the federal government to provide parks for haulage
vehicles. There are only two axis through which these ports can be
accessed. Any obstruction on the Mile Two- Apapa and Ijora- Apapa high
ways will automatically affect port activities. By September the phase
one of Orile Iganmu truck terminal will be opened for use and that
park will accommodate 500 tankers and trailers. [VAN 13/09/07]
Norwegian Government & NPA Partner For Port
Efficiency
A team of Maritime experts from Norway have paid a courtesy call to
the Management of NPA Western Ports. The main focus was to boost
efficiency in operations. Nigeria already train its Marine Officers
in Norway. [DT 28/09/07]
Ships And Ports Investment Group Debuts Soon
In a bid to open Nigerians to investment opportunities in the maritime
sector but are constrained by funds, a new Ships and Ports Communication
Company is offering a cooperative platform that will enable those
who cannot invest alone to pool funds together and invest collectively.
Chief Isaac Jolapamo, Indigenous Shipowners Association of Nigeria
(ISAN), has agreed to chair the board of trustees of the investment
company. [Leadership]
Oceanic Bank Invests In Indigenous Maritime Fleet
Oceanic Bank International Plc has demonstrated its increasing interest
in the development of Nigeria’s maritime industry. The bank
recently extended a credit facility worth $14.5 million to an indigenous
shipping firm, Vigeo Limited for the acquisition of a modern anchor
handler vessel AHTS Lady Margaret from Farstad Shipping of Norway.
AHTS vessels are used to install and maintain oil platforms. The
vessel is of design ME505 (BHP 8850) built in Australia in 1993.
Delivery to the new owner will take place at the turn of August/September.
This is one of the five vessels Oceanic Bank has made plans to finance.
[Rigzone 03/09/07]
The High Cost Of Rebuilding Nigeria’s Railways
The Governor of the Central Bank, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, is reported
to have told the 13th Nigeria Economic Summit in Abuja that the Federal
Government does not have enough money to finance without help the
rebuilding of the country’s railway system to international
standards. He said that only the private sector and other development
financing agencies could meet the huge financial demands of the project.
He also said that there is a need for very strong financial institutions
to support the government’s 13% growth target, and he warned
that it will be a long journey to make Nigeria one of the top twenty
economies by the year 2020. He added that the Nigerian economy has
to improve in all sectors if it is to meet the goals laid down by
former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
EU To Co-Finance Silt Control Programme In Niger River
The EU is to co-finance the de-silting of the Niger River, according
to Executive Secretary of the Niger Basin Development Authority [NBDA],
Mohammed Tuga. Tuga said the African Development Bank, the World
Bank and the Islamic Development Bank were also among the international
donors for the US$48-million programme. The project, aimed at ending
the entry of soil into River Niger, would also enhance fishing and
other agricultural activities in the river. The master plan was approved
last month by the Council of Ministers of the nine member countries
of the Niger basin. They are Burkina Faso, Benin Republic, Cameroon,
Ivory Coast, Guinea, Mali, Niger, Chad and Nigeria. [DPA 31/08/07]
Port Harcourt Airport
Minister of Transportation, Mrs. Diezana Allison-Madueke, has said
that the Port Harcourt Airport, closed since August 29, 2007 for
renovation but stalled, will resume operations in the first quarter
of 2008. [TD 11/09/07]
Government Earmarks N320m for Kaduna Airport Runway
The federal government has set aside N320 million for re-surfacing
of the dilapidated Kaduna Airport runway. [VAN 07/09/07]
NPA to Take Ports Out of Major
Cities
Management of the Nigerian Port Authority [NPA], Western Ports, has
disclosed plans to take the nation's ports out of the cities to make
them more efficient. Managing Director, Abdulsalam Mohammed, criticized
congestion on the nation's ports roads, especially at Apapa and Tin
Can Island ports said that Nigeria's quest of becoming a maritime
hub may not materialize if its ports are not accessible. According
to him, "Our ports cannot be efficient if roads to them are
not accessible. This is why acquisition of land for future development
has become imperative. There is need to take the ports out of the
cities."
Mohammed also called for the reactivation and provision of rail access
to all of the nation's ports as well as the implementation of the nation's
transport master plan. He pointed out that there were a number of present
constraints which included policy instability, financial burden of
dredging activities, unreliable power generation and distribution,
access roads at the Lagos Port Complex and the enhancement of Information
Communication Technology [ICT] through a common network with customs
and port users. Mohammed also called for an earlier passage of the
Port and Labour Bill presently with the National Assembly. [DC 10/08/07]
New Minister Wants NPA to Brace Up
Apparently poised to make a difference as he take over the reins of
administration in the Federal Ministry of Transportation, Prince
John Okechukwu Emeka has charged the Nigerian Ports Authority [NPA]
to brace up to the challenge of driving the Federal Government economic
reforms programme to the next level. The Minister met with top management
of the NPA for the first time, as part of his two days familiarization
visit to ports facilities. [TD 07/08/07]
NPA Overshoots N19bn Target By N6.721m
The Nigerian Ports Authority [NPA] Western Ports has exceeded its N19
billion target for the year 2007 by over N6,721,850 million only
eight months into the year. Managing Director of NPA Western ports,
Mallam Abdul Salam Abubakar disclosed the authority raked in $48,129,079,
$28,355,707 and $21,315,128 as lease fees for concession, administrative/estate
rent, ship dues and through put fees respectively for LPC during
the period under review.
For the Tin-can Island port, Abubakar stated $19,694,284, $14,703,867
and $14,956,080 were realised as lease fees for concession, administrative/estate
rent, ship dues and throughput fees respectively for TCIP in the first
seven months of the year 2007. [VAN 07/08/07]
China Surpasses US As Country's Import Partner
China has eclipsed the US as Nigeria's import partner with 11% of trade
whilst US hold 8%. The relationship between China and Nigeria has
been reported to be strong and cordial but also complex with the
Nigerian pharmaceutical and textile industries suffering from what
appears to be 'dumping' of Chinese pharmaceutical and textiles and
from counterfeit goods originating in China. [TD 03/08/07]
Norway Partners Nigeria to Develop Shipping Sector
The Norwegian Shipowners Association [NSA] is hoping to partner the
Indigenous Shipping Association of Nigeria [ISAN] to develop the
Nigeria shipping industry. According to Chief Isaac Jolapamo, President
of ISAN, the collaboration with Norway will look at the possibility
of shipyard development and man power training of Nigerian seafarers.
Jolapamo also called on the Association to help Nigeria with its
excess tonnage.
Reidar Norheim of the NSA noted that education is the key to shipping
development, adding that if the conditions between both countries are
acceptable, the Norwegian Shipowners Association will enter into an
Institutional Shipping Development Programme in Nigeria. Norheim explained
that the reason for the programme is to ensure that the quality of
man power and other areas of development in Nigeria will be of international
standard. He also stated that Nigerians will be given opportunity to
crew Norwegian flagged vessels if the partnership works out.
The NSA is still carrying out a feasibility study, adding that as
soon as the report is compiled, submitted to the Norwegian Shipowners,
and if accepted, then work can start on some specific areas of the
Nigerian shipping sector. Norway is the fifth largest ship owning nation
in the world with a total of 1,795 vessels , amounting to 50million
Dead Weight Ton [DWT]. [VAN 09/08/07]
Nigeria Shippers Council Arbitrates 300 Shipping Complaints
Nigeria Shippers Council [NSC], through the Cargo Defence Fund [CDF],
has so far intervened in about 300 complains of legitimate cargo
claims by Nigeria operators. According to the CDF Executive Secretary,
Azugo Ago, the Fund has been able to play a mediatory role in many
of the problems faced by Nigeria shippers, aimed at ensuring recovery,
remedy and indemnification, adding that cases that are actionable
have been taken to the law courts. Cases included, non-delivery of
cargoes, theft or pilferage, illegal charges, excessive bank charges,
non-payment of export proceeds, delays and short handling of cargoes
among others.
The Fund seeks to assist Nigeria Shippers in their pursuit of claims
recoveries and legal remedies. Following numerous complains received
from importers and exporters over the years, the Nigeria Shippers Council
embarked on a series of studies in order to identify those areas where
shippers have suffered the greatest loss. In addition, Ago said the
Fund is working with the Marine Offices Committee of the Nigeria Insurers
Association to improve relations between the Assured, the Insurer and
other related international agencies like the Lloyds and P.I clubs.
While blaming some shippers for not taking appropriate cover for their
shipments, Ago advised importers and exporters to constantly exercise
due diligence and make sure they deal with credible and reputable partners
when importing or exporting. [03/08/07]
Sterling Bank To Commit US$50 Million To Cabotage Vessel Financing
The management of Sterling Bank Plc is to commit US$50 million to a
Cabotage Vessels Financing Fund [CVFF] being packaged by the federal
government through the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety
Agency [NIMASA] as part of its effort to improve local capacity in
ownership of vessels in the sector presently dominated by foreign
operators. Managing Director Babatunde Dabiri explained that the
US$50 million is half of the total sum of US$100 million facility
from the African Export-Import Bank [Afrexim] to promoting Cabotage
by supporting Nigerian Vessel Owners. The bank has dedicated its
branch at 17c Commercial Avenue, Apapa as a full fledged Maritime
Financial Services Centre under the charge of Victor Olaniyan. [VAN
27/07/07]
Nigeria Currency To Redenominate
Nigeria's central bank has said it will make the country's currency,
the naira, convertible by 2009. Until now, the central bank has limited
how much foreign currency can circulate by selling it through auctions.
It has also set the exchange rate. The change should help increase
flows of money into the banking system and encourage investment into
Nigeria.
The government will also redenominate its currency from August 2008,
removing two zero’s so that 100 old naira will become 1 naira.
This should help make the pricing of goods easier, as well as conversion
into other currencies. The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) will also
phase out N1,000, N500, N200, N100 and N50 notes, which will leave
the N20 as the highest denomination.
The naira has been appreciating against the dollar this year, thanks
to Nigeria's high oil revenues. Analysts think the naira will be further
strengthened following the latest currency changes. The central bank's
governor Chukwuma Soludo said the bank would "gradually withdraw
from the weekly auction system [of foreign currency] and only intervene
in the market as may be required to achieve defined policy objectives." The
currency changes apply to commitments Nigeria has made under International
Monetary Fund [IMF] rules regarding currency transfers. [BBC 14/08/07]
New High Commissioner Appointed
Mr Robert Dewar CMG has been appointed British High Commissioner to
the Federal Republic of Nigeria in succession to Sir Richard Gozney
KCMG. Mr Dewar, who is currently Her Majesty’s Ambassador to
the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, will take up his new
appointment in December.
Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre For Lagos
According to Dr Christopher Kolade [Nigeria’s High Commissioner
in UK] Nigeria has purchased the equipment needed for establishment
of a regional Lagos based maritime rescue coordination centre within
three months.
Adf Loan For Rural Transport In Cross River
The African Development Fund [ADF] is reported to have approved a loan
equivalent to US$53 million in support of a rural access project
in Cross River State. The scheme will give priority to rehabilitation
of unpaved feeder roads which are subject to erosion. The ADF loan
will cover 89.5% of the project costs, 8.3% being provided by the
Cross River State Government and the remaining 2.2% by the Federal
Government.
Trade Mission To Nigeria
The London Chamber of Commerce and Industry is planning a trade mission
to Nigeria 17-21st September 2007. Anyone interested should contact
Craig Pym on 020 7203 2816 or e-mail cpym@londonchamber.co.uk
FG to Rehabilitate Lagos-Benin-Ore Road
The new Minister of Transport, Mrs. Diezani Alison Madueke recently
visited the Benin Ore road stating that the Yar'Adua administration
was fully committed to making the major Benin-Ore axis motorable
and announced that the federal government had already released more
funds to contractors. [TD 07/080/7]
Lagos Release N1.5bn for Jetty, Road Projects
Lagos State Government has concluded plans to upgrade the jetty at
Badore in order to compliment the on-going dualisation of the Ajah-Badore
road project. N1.5billion has been released out of the N2.9billion
budgeted for the project. The project is expected to be completed
by May 2008. [VAN 08/08/07]
FG Spends N1.9bn On Sokoto/Illela Road
The Federal Government has approved Sokoto state government's request
for rehabilitation of 80km Sokoto- Illela road, at the cost of N1.9
billion.
NPA Gets Task Force on Cargo Clearance
Following the accumulated cargoes arising from the 4-day nationwide
strike by the Nigerian Labour Congress [NLC] and Trade Union Congress
[TUC], the Nigerian Ports Authority [NPA] has set up a task force
to fast-track the clearance of goods at the ports. The task force
will enforce the smooth movement of traffic in and out of the Apapa
and Tin can island Ports in line with the Federal Ministry of Transportation's
desire for the immediate resumption of Port activities. The Authority
urges all Terminal Operators, Clearing and Shipping Agents, Trailer
Operators, Stakeholders and the general public to cooperate with
the task force to ensure a hitch free exercise. The task force will
remain in force until operations at the ports returns to its normal
state. [DT 26/06/07]
Strike Cost Maritime Sector US$64 Million Per Day
During a four-day strike called by the Nigerian Labour Congress [NLC],
around 50 vessels were left stranded during that period as all the
nations seaports were closed. Vessels bringing in cargoes had to
return to the high sea at an estimated cost of US$10,000 per day.
To keep vessels operational the owners would have collectively spent
US$64 million per day. [VAN 28/06/07]
Nigeria Will Make Export Processing Zones Competitive
President Umaru Musa Yar'adua has assured the Nigeria Export Processing
Zones Authority [NEPZA] that his administration would accelerate
the passage of a bill to create a competitive atmosphere for the
companies in the zones. The NEPZA oversees 22 free zones in Nigeria,
with a potential for cumulative investment of us$100bn if policies
were consistent and the companies were given access into the Nigerian
market. [NF 28/06/07]
LCCI Nigeria Trade Mission 17-21 Sept 2007
The London Chamber of Commerce and Industry [LCCI] and UK Trade & Investment
are proposing a trade mission to Nigeria from 17-21 September 2007.
The mission offers networking opportunities provided by the British
High Commission including a reception in Lagos, local press coverage,
shared intelligence and reduced costs. For an information pack contact
Craig Pym on +44 [0]207 203 2816 or e-mail: cpym@londonchamber.co.uk.
Deadline for applications is 17/08/07. [LCCI26/06/07]
NCMDLA Identify Obstacles to Cargo Clearance
Freight forwarders have identified cumbersome procedures and high cost
as major impediments for clearance of cargoes at the nation's ports.
Other hindrances to clearance procedures at the ports are delays
in movement of cargoes to off dock and bonded terminals and difficulties
in examination of cargoes by customs due to lack of plant space;
delays in confirming payments at banks and constant breakdown of
scanners.
The process of obtaining the Risk Assessment Report [RAR] is still
very difficult as values are being jerked up at will while classification
is wrongly applied. The dispute resolution mechanisms are not included
in the process of the service providers. Such issue take weeks and
months to be resolved and it's the major component obstructing facilitation
as all cases are always referred to banks and service providers before
the importer or agent will be informed.
Freight forwarders also pointed out that "the core component
of the Automated System for Customs Data [ASYCUDA], is yet to be used
so the process is still being done manually. ASYCUDA ++ is yet to be
fully automated due to connectivity problems and breakdowns. Meanwhile
port access can mean a whole day spent tackling red tape before access
is granted. [DC 22/06/07]
Customs Steps Up Reforms
The Nigeria Customs Service has dropped 12 top officials from its Zone
A as part of on-going reforms. The Zonal Co-ordinator, Alhaji Adamu
Rabiu confirmed that this affected the comptrollers in charge of
Zone A Ikeja and Tin Can Island II. [DT 19/06/07]
Government Reaffirms Commitment to Transportation Infrastructure
The permanent secretary overseeing the Transportation Ministry, Nu'uman
Barau Danbatta, has reaffirmed that the federal government would
do its best to rehabilitate and expand all existing transportation
infrastructures across the country as proclaimed by President Yar'Adua
as a priority area. [DT 18/06/07]
NRC Launch New Fertilizer Wagons
Mr David Ndakotsu spokesman for the Nigerian Railway Corporation [NRC]
has said the corporation has refurbished 300 covered wagons to be
used in transporting fertilizers from Lagos to some Northern States.
Each of the wagons can take 500 tonnes of fertilizer. [DT 29/06/07]
Benin-Ore Road
The Nigerian House of Representatives have directed President Yar'Adua
to order the federal ministry of works to commence immediate reconstruction
of the Benin-Ore-Lagos Expressway. The state of the expressway which
links the south west zone with the hinterland has assumed a national
scandal. Owing to the poor state of the road, a journey which normally
should last three hours from Lagos to Benin now lasts over seven
hours. Besides calling for its urgent repair, there is also a need
to develop alternative means of transportation to facilitate easy
flow of goods and services across the country. In its resolution,
the house also directed the inspector general of police to increase
security presence on the highway to stem surging incidence of robbery
by armed bandits. [DC 04/07/07]
Second Niger Bridge to Cost N58.6bn
The second Niger bridge at Onitsha will cost about N58.6 billion, according
to the contractor, Mr Dominico Gitto. The 6-lane, 1.8 km bridge is
expected to be ready in 3 years. The bridgeis to be built under the
public-private partnership initiative with the Government providing
20%, Anambra and Delta states 10% each, and the contractor, Gitto
Construzione Generali Nigeria Ltd., the balance of 60% recouped by
tolls. [TD 28/06/07]
Airports Link Road
Imo and Rivers states have concluded plans to construct a road that
would link the Sam Mbakwe Airport Owerri with Port Harcourt International
Airport, Omagwa. [DC 25/06/07]
New President Elected
In an election marred by violence and controversy, Alhaji Umaru Musa
Yar’Adua, the candidate of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party
[PDP] was elected on 21/04/07. He is due to be sworn in as President
when Obasanjo’s term expires on 29th May. Yar’Adua received
24.6 million votes against 6.6 million for his nearest rival, Muhammadu
Buhari, while Vice-President Atiku Abubakar received only 2.6 million.
Gen. Muhammadu Buhari’s All Nigeria Peoples Party [ANPP] has
said it will challenge the election results at the Electoral Tribunal
and demand the installation of its own candidate as president; and
Nigeria’s biggest election monitoring group, the Transition Monitoring
Group, said the presidential poll was so flawed that it should be scrapped
and held again.
Cargo Manifests & Overtime Cargo
Nigerian Customs have issued new circulars indicating cargo manifests
must be submitted 72 hrs prior to the vessels arrival and that all
uncleared cargo at the port after 28 days will be treated as overtime
cargo. Please click here for the official notice.
FG Awards US$127 Million Contract for Port Repairs
The Federal Government has awarded a contract for the reconstruction
of Lagos port harbours - the East and West moles - at a cost of US$127
million [N16.5333 billion] to China Engineering Construction Company
(CCECC). The contract was signed on behalf of the government by Minister
of State for Transport Mallam Habibu Aliyu and managing director
of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) Chief Adebayo Sarumi.
The dilapidated hundred year old mole will be removed and the contractors
will build a new deep-sea solid wall across the east and west harbours
of the sea. [DT 10/05/07]
Abolish Duty Waivers
The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has attributed the
slow pace of economic growth in the country to the prevalent use
of import duty waiver and has called for it to be abolished. The
Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has attributed the
slow pace of economic growth in the country to the prevalent use
of import duty waiver and has called for it to be abolished. The
president of the chamber, Dr. Ademola Ajayi, said that the indiscriminate
import duty waivers could be a source of distortion in the economy
and that it has become a cause of concern to private sector operators.
[VAN 07/05/07]
EPA - Country to Lose Tariff, Says Customs Boss/ Wants 3 Year Extension
The Comptroller-General of Customs, Jacob Gyam Buba says Nigeria will
loose tariffs, if the ongoing Economic Partnership Agreement [EPA]
came into reality. He said at the moment Nigeria is been cautious
in the negotiations process "that is why it's seeking for extension
by at least three years".
Many civil society organisations were against the ongoing negotiation
in the present form, saying the ACP countries are likely to suffer
the burden of the agreement. [DT 03/05/07]
EPA Threatens N6.2b Non-Oil Exports Revenue - MAN
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria [MAN] has warned that harmonisation
of tariffs under the proposed ECOWAS - European Union Economic Partnership
Agreement [EPA], will lead to loss of over 478 million dollars in
revenue from non-oil exports annually, and closure of some industries
in the country.
The Economic Partnership Agreement stipulates the opening up of the
ECOWAS market on a reciprocal basis, to EU products on gradual reduction
of tariff from 2008 and complete elimination of tariff on EU products
by 2020. As part of preparation for the EPA negotiation, meetings of
stakeholders continue at the regional and national levels.
Impact Assessment Studies conducted by MAN to determine the implications
of EPA on the country, stated that "In specific terms, average
import tariff revenue loss of around USS478 million or 42% of tariff
revenue is envisaged in 2008 for Nigeria. Tariff accounts for 39% of
non-oil export revenue. The expected implication of this development
is drastic reduction in public sector spending or increase in the level
of taxation. The two options hold very negative consequences on social
and economic infrastructures."
Citing the performance of the Africa, Caribbean and Pacific [ACP]
Member-States under Lome Convention in its 25 year span, MAN discovered
that no significant economic benefits were recorded "Almost all
Africa, Caribbean and Pacific [ACP] Member-States remain at the poverty
level. ACP countries share of EU market declined from 6.7% in 1976
to 3% in1998. FDI showed similar trend," the report stated.
"Likewise, in the last fifteen years, ECOWAS' exports to the
EU, on the average, recorded only 4% growth [if crude oil export by
Nigeria is removed from the export list] in contrast with 84% export
growth recorded in trade with ECOWAS by EU for the same period. Review
of ACP countries' share of EU market under Lome Convention showed a
decline from 6.7% in 1976 to 3% in 1998. Foreign Direct Investment
during the period recorded similar decline," said MAN.
The implication of this trend is that the goals of EPA with regard
to 'robust' export opportunities in EU market for ECOWAS products is
very unrealistic, especially in the face of stiff and unrestrained
competition expected from new entrants into the membership of EU. The
looming danger posed by the ECOWAS Common External Tariff [CET], the
precursor to EPA, has started to manifest across all industrial sectoral
groups in Nigeria. The urgent and substantial import liberalization
promoted by EPA has the strong potential to further weaken trade relation
which currently is estimated at about 10-15% among ECOWAS members.
'When compared with exports within the more developed trading blocks
such as EU, Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation, intra-regional trade
in West Africa is abysmally low.
If ECOWAS and other regional groups in Africa are made to liberalize
their economies at a faster pace and not in line with their own poverty
and development plans, the outcome would further constrain regional
cooperation and throw away all benefits associated with regional integration.
[VAN 19/04/07]
Ban On Bunkering To Be Replaced By Licensing
The Federal Government has approved resuscitation of the bunkering
trade in the Niger Delta, which had continued despite its ban, according
to the Minister for Information and Communications, Mr Frank Nweke
Jnr. Bunkering is the lifting of petroleum products from one point
to another with a licence. In the absence of filling stations, as
in most parts of the Niger Delta, approved operators largely use
boats to distribute fuel in the area. However abuse of the activity
by unlicensed [illegal] bunkerers discredited the trade and led to
the ban. According to new guidelines, licensing requirements include
the need for evidence of ability to source products independently
of NNPC, compliance with provisions of the Cabotage Law, and payment
of a non-refundable application fee of $10,000 and a license fee
of $50,000. [NF 19/04/07]
Nigeria Seeks Seat in International Maritime Council
Nigeria has formally submitted an application expressing her intention
to contest for a seat on the governing council of the International
Maritime Organisation [IMO] from 2008-2009. [DT 30/04/07]
BNBC Appoint New Director
The British Nigeria Business Council [BNBC] has appointed Mark Steeves
onto its Board of Directors with immediate effect. Mark, who is Business
Development Director at HSBC Insurance Brokers Ltd, has 25 years
oil industry experience. He also played a part in the deliberations
which led to HSBC’s July 2006 announcement of a strategic alliance
with First Bank of Nigeria.
Customs Generates N1.2tr in 3 Years
Nigerian Customs Service [NCS], has generated a revenue of more than
N1.2 trillion in the last three years. A report indicated that the
NCS recorded its highest revenue of N348 billion in 2005 whilst achieving
N327 billion in 2004 and N345 billion in 2006. The NCS has already
generated about N89 billion for the first quarter of this year [N31
billion in January, N29 billion in February and N29 billion in March]
The statistics on smuggling/ seizure returns, showed that over 6,028
seizures were made in 2005 and 2006 with a total value of N16 billion.
Seizures for the two years included textile materials, used tyres,
used fridge /freezers, poultry products, arms and ammunition, petroleum
products, narcotics and general merchandise. The seized textile materials
were valued at more than N1 billion, while the general merchandise
was put at N3 billion and about 2,935 vehicles were confiscated during
the two - year period. [TD 01/05/07]
International Maritime Bureau Expresses Concern
The International Maritime Bureau [IMB] has expressed concern over
deteriorating security in Nigeria. IMB baulked that six attacks on
ships were recorded in the last three months. [DC 04/05/07]
Isiala-Ngwa Dry Port - Abia State
At a ground breaking ceremony, Minister of Transportation, Chief Cornelius
Adebayo, said the Inland Container Depot [ICD], in Isiala-Ngwa, Abia
State, will create up to 100,000 jobs when completed. The site, a 50,000
TEU port facility, will serve Aba, Onitsha, Enugu, Ebonyi, Imo, Delta
and Benue states. The Isiala-ngwa ICD is expected to receive containerised
cargo by rail from Port Harcourt. The depot will also benefit from
on-going modernisation of the railway from Lagos to Kano into standard
gauge and future upgrading of the Port Harcourt-Jos-Maiduguri line.
East Gate Inland Container Terminal Ltd has been given the go ahead
to construct the facility expected to be ready for business within
30 months.
The government has also recently performed ground breaking ceremonies
for ICD’s in Kano and Jos. [VAN 07/05/07]
Lekki Trade Zone - Lagos Government & Communities
Sign MoU
Following a prolonged struggle, the Lagos State Government has finally
signed a Memorandum of Understanding [MoU] with various groups and
communities in the Ibeju Lekki area of the State; to create the Lekki
Free Trade Zone [LFTZ] project. The multi-billion dollar project
launched in May 2006 is a joint venture between the Lagos State Government
and a consortium of Chinese businesses [CCECC-BEYOND International
Investment & Development Co. Ltd.]
The MoU, which was prepared by a Lagos-based non-governmental organisation
[NGO], the Social and Economic Rights Action Center [SERAC] involved
the Lagos Government, Ibeju Lekki Government Council, Lekki Worldwide
Investment Limited [LWIL], and the accredited representatives of villages
and communities affected by the LFTZ project. After the signing ceremony,
Lagos State Governor, Senator Bola Tinubu stated that with the signing
of the MoU and concession of 5% ownership of the LFTZ project to the
local communities, it was important to quickly begin processes for
the project's resettlement scheme. [TD 04/04/07]
Financial Centre To Be Established In Lekki
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria is planning to establish
an international financial centre in the Lekki Peninsula of Lagos
and that it will be modelled on similar centres in Dubai and Singapore.
Tinapa Business Resort Opens
Early in April President Obasanjo declared the Tinapa Business Resort
in Calabar open. The Chief Executive Officer, Mr Sam Anani stated
that there will be a synergy between the Calabar Free Zone and the
Tinapa Free Zone. He said that the free trade zone incentives include
a one-stop approval process for establishing business operations,
100% exemption from tax and import duties, unrestricted repatriation
of capital, profits and dividends, as well as efficient customs and
clearing procedures. He said the involvement of the private sector
in Tinapa was championed by United Bank for Africa plc, which provided
N5 billion to jump start the construction process.
Work Starts On Calabar Mono-Rail
Work on theUS$36 million Calabar Monorail project was formally started
when Cross River State Governor Donald Duke performed a ground-breaking
ceremony at Margaret Ekpo International Airport. The project was
conceived in anticipation of increased traffic as a result of the
Tinapa Business Resort. Duke added that, when completed, passengers
will be ferried over the 12.9km from the airport to the business
resort at 60 kph. The project is funded by the African Import-Export
Bank based in Cairo. [VAN 25/04/07]
NIMASA to Resolve Dockworkers, Terminal Operators' Impasse
Management of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency
[NIMASA] has commenced reconciliatory moves aimed at averting the
threat by dockworkers to disrupt work at the nation's seaports. The
Dockworkers Union of Nigeria [DUN] had threatened to disrupt port
operations due to alleged maltreatment of dockworkers by private
terminal operators. The Federal Ministry of Transportation through
NIMASA will investigate and recommend measures for the amicable resolution
of the matter. [DT 07/05/07]
NIMASA Introduces New Certificate for Vessels
NIMASA has introduced new certification process for vessels in order
to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Coastal and Inland
[Cabotage] Act 2006. Henceforth, any vessel that fails to carry the
new certificate would be detained by the agency, adding that the
measure was to ensure full implementation of the Cabotage law as
well as meet international standard. The main objective of the new
regime is to encourage indigenous participation in domestic shipping
trade. NIMASA has so far registered 67 vessels, representing a cumulative
tonnage of 35, 725.21 dead weight [dwt ]. [DT 20/04/07]
NIMASA Gets New CEO
The Federal Government has appointed a new Director General/CEO for
NIMASA. He is Dr. Shamsideen Adegboyega Dosunmu. The government dissolved
the Agency's Interim Management Board and reconstituted a new one
to be chaired by the Honourable Minister of State for Water Transportation,
Mallam Muhammed Habib Aliu. Other members of the Board include; Mr.
Henry Abebe, Executive Director, Maritime Labour and Cabotage Services;
Alhaji Danjuma Dabo, Executive Director, Finance and Administration,
and Ishaku M. Shekarau, Executive Director, Maritime Safety and Shipping
Development.
Meanwhile, the former Director General/CEO of the agency, Mrs. Mfon
Usoro has been cleared by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission
[EFCC]. [DT 10/05/07]
Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Raids NIMASA
Three top officials of NIMASA have been arrested surrounding a mystery
over finances among other allegations. The three are: Director-General
Mrs. Mfon Ekong Usoro, Executive Director, Finance and Administration,
Dr. Ade Dosumu and the Director of Finance, Mrs.Chukea Ezeala. [TD
02/05/07]
Obasanjo Flags Off Abuja Metro Rail System
President Obasanjo flagged off work on the construction of the Abuja
metro rail system slated for completion in 15 years and financed
by a $841 million dollar loan facility provided by the Chinese government.
The project will be executed in three phases by Chinese Civil Engineering
Construction Company which will provide a standard rail gauge for
the city covering 280km. [VAN 07/05/07]
Lagos to Kano Railway
Acting Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation [NRC],
Mazi Jetson Nwankwo has said work on the standard gauge from Lagos
to Kano has started, while Port-Harcourt to Maiduguri axis was yet
to begin. [TD 03/05/07]
Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria [FAAN] Close Domestic Area Of
Lagos Airport
The runway of the domestic wing of the Murtala Mohammed Airport will
be shut down for over a month for maintenance which will include the
resurfacing of the runway and lighting. All aircraft traffic are expected
to use the runway at the international wing. [TD 01/050/7]
The New MMA Terminal II
President Olusegun Obasanjo has commissioned the new Murtala Mohammed
Airport Terminal II in Lagos. The features are: 4,000 - capacity
departure and arrival halls, three dual head boarding bridges, eight
remote aircraft boarding/disembarking locations, automated 800-capacity
multi-story car park, seamless link between the terminal building
and the car park, a helipad and many others. Additionally available
are a four-star hotel, complete with a swimming pool, 156 suites
and rooms, 1000-capacity multi-purpose room, a bank and a world-class
restaurant. [TD 16/04/07]
Abuja International Airport Concession Stalled
The concession of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja
by the Bureau of Public Enterprises [BPE] to Abuja Gateway Consortium
[AGC] under a 25-year lease agreement has hit the rocks over disagreements
among consortium members. [TD 25/04/07]
Cargo Manifests & Overtime
Cargo
Nigerian
Customs have issued new circulars indicating cargo manifests must
be submitted 72 hrs prior to the vessels arrival and that all
uncleared cargo at the port after 28 days will be treated as overtime
cargo. Please see attached for details.
Maritime Agency Funds Missing
About $10.2 million belonging to the defunct National Maritime Authority
[NMA] is missing, according to a Nigerian press article quoting the
report of an investigative panel. The management of the NMA, which
was renamed the Nigeria Maritime Administration and Safety Agency
[NIMASA] after merger with the former Joint Maritime Industrial Labour
Council [JOMALIC], says the money was trapped in a failed bank. However
the investigative panel, established by the Federal Government in
January, claims that, although the commercial bank has since failed,
the Nigerian Deposit Insurance Corporation [NDIC] could not find
any evidence of the deposit in the bank’s records. The panel’s
recommendations are reported to include dissolution of the present
board of NIMASA and reference to the Economic and Financial Crimes
Commission [EFCC] to help in the recovery effort. [BNBC March Rpt]
President Receives Draft Protocol 0n One-Stop Investment Centre
President Obasanjo has directed the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission
to consult stakeholders to prepare a Draft Protocol for the establishment
of the One-Stop Investment Centre. Agencies to be represented at
the centre include the Nigerian Immigration Service, the Nigeria
Customs Service, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, the National
Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion, the Corporate Affairs
Commission, the Federal Inland Revenue Service and NAFDAC. [BNBC
March Rpt]
Government Orders Relocation Of Apapa Fuel Depots
The Government is reported to have ordered relocation of fuel depots
on Tin-Can Island and Apapa in order to reduce traffic congestion,
following a visit to the area by the Minister of Transportation,
Chief Cornelius Adebayo. The Government has also directed that any
further construction of tank farms in the area be halted, as a means
of improving the flow of traffic to and from the port. [VAN 27/03/07]
No Fixed Scanner For Apapa Port Until 2009
Installation of a fixed scanner at Apapa Port may not be complete until
January 2009, according to Managing Director of Cotecna Destination
Inspection Ltd, Mr B.J.K. Karingithi. He said that allocation of
a suitable site had been delayed by congestion after concessioning
of terminals at the port, but that a site had now been allocated
and a contract signed for construction work to commence in August
this year. [BNBC March Rpt]
NPA Sacks Another 3,000 Workers
The Management of the Nigerian ports Authority [NPA], has laid off
another 3,000 of its workers barely eight months after sacking 3000
workers in similar exercise and according to reports borrowed about
N15 billion from two leading banks to finance the retrenchment. A
press statement read "The gradual reduction of the staff strength
of Nigerian Ports Authority in accordance with the on-going Port
Reforms takes a further step today with the severance of officers
and staff most, of whom have served for over 18 years."
Umbrella body for the workers in the sector, the Maritime Workers
Union of Nigeria [MWUN] is already poised for a showdown with management
over the current wave of retrenchment and called on the National Assembly
to direct the Minister of Transport and the Management of NPA to halt
the exercise or the union would be forced to withdraw their members
from the ports. [VAN 23/03/07]
Duties Waiver on Aircraft Parts
President Obasanjo has approved the exemption of payment of Custom
duties on imported aircraft parts by airline operators. The Airline
Operators of Nigeria [AON] appealed to the President stating that
aircraft were often grounded awaiting the clearance of spare parts
at seaports, thereby incurring demurrage cost at the airport. [TD
04/04/07]
Free Trade Zone - Lagos Signs MOU With Chinese Govt
The Lagos State Government has signed a MoU with the Chinese Government
for the development of the Lekki Free Trade Zone. The leader of the
Chinese delegation Mr. Li Yuanchao expressed confidence that the
project would be a reality, stressing that the project would further
bring about greater cooperation between Nigeria and China. Nigerian
Governor Bola Tinubu recalled the rapid transformation which Shanghai
town had undergone as a clear demonstration of the benefits which
an organized market like a free trade zone could bring, hoping that
same would come to Lagos. [Van 30/03/07]
Obasanjo Commissions Olokola FTZ Project
President Obasanjo has performed the ground breaking ceremony of the
multi-billion dollar OK Free Trade Zone Project at Olokola a joint
venture initiative of Ogun and Ondo State governments. [DC 17/04/07]
New Maritime Safety Bill Out Soon
According to the head of NIMASA legal services, Mrs Mayen Obi, the
Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency [NIMASA] Bill
may be signed into law this month by President Obasanjo. [The ANIMAS
Bill gave legal backing to the merger of the former National Maritime
Authority and the Joint Maritime Labour Industrial Council [JOMALIC].
The agency, initially known as National Maritime Administration and
Safety Agency [NAMASA] had its name changed to NIMASA with the passage
of the Bill.]
Indigenous Ship Owners to Access N1bn Cabotage Fund
The National Assembly had approved the guidelines for the operation
of the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund [CVFF]. Not less than N1 billion
naira which accrued to the Cabotage Vessel Financing Fund [CVFF]
since 2004 can now be accessed by indigenous ship owners.
The CVFF was put in place to replace the former Ship Acquisition and
Ship Building Fund [SASBF] which was initiated by the late General
Sani Abacha administration in 1995. Abacha was forced to stop the scheme
when virtually all those who assessed the fund used the loan for every
other thing except ship acquisition.
The new Cabotage law 2003 seeks to restrict the carriage of coastal
trade to ships owned by Nigerians and registered in Nigeria. Such vessels
are also to be built in the country as well as crewed by Nigerian nationals.
To achieve the objectives of the Act, an arrangement was included in
the legislation that will grant credit facilities to Nigerians participating
in the cabotage trade, under a special credit scheme. [TD 10/04/07]
IMO Begins Training for Maritime Auditors
The International Maritime Organization [IMO] has started a regional
training programme for Auditors in the maritime sector of the economy.
The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and
Safety Agency [NIMASA], Mrs. Mfon Ekong Usoro stated the scheme will
achieve a harmonized and consistent global implementation of IMO
standards in line with its objectives of safe, secure and efficient
shipping on clean oceans. [TD 03/04/07]
Movement of Containers By Rail to Be Ready in 5 Years
Acting Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Jetson
Nwankwo has stated that though there is skeletal rail haulage of
goods from Apapa and Tin-can ports presently, effective service would
not be ready until five years time in line with the schedule of government
reform. [Van 03/04/07]
FG Flags-Off Abuja-Lokoja Road Dualisation Project
The federal government last week flagged off four presidential initiative
projects: Abuja - Keffi road and the later sections of the Abuja
[Zuba] - Abaji - Lokoja – Benin / the dualisation of the Kano
- Maiduguri road / dualisation of Lokoja to Benin / dualisation of
Ilesha - Akure - Owo - Kabba - Lokoja road. [DT 26/03/07]
World Bank Boosts Lagos Transport Project With $50m
The World Bank has approved an additional $50 million for the Lagos
State Urban Transport project. This is in addition to the original
$100 million released for the project. [Van 12/04/07]
Imports to Be Subjected to SON Inspection
Standards Organisation of Nigeria [SON] is now to inspect imported
goods before the Nigeria Customs Service allows them into the country,
according to Dr. John Akanya, SON Director General. This will ensure
that substandard commodities were not dumped in the country.
Akanya said
his organisation and the Customs were partners in progress and
there was no reason why there should be conflicts in the operations
of the two organisations. He added that it is a good development
for
the two organisations to work together for the purpose of checking
substandard imports. According to him, products of Nigerian manufacturers
need to be protected and made competitive against those of other
countries by ensuring that only qualitative products are imported.
Please view March 2007 Transport report
for more details.
Government Prepares New Guidelines for
Free Trade Zones
The federal government has drawn guidelines for the operation of Free
Zones. The minister of commerce and industry, Aliyu Moddibo Umar disclosed
this at a forum on the commencement of Olokola Free Trade Zone. He
stated work on the guideline and policy have been concluded and is
ready to be presented to the federal executive council for approval.
He also explained that the government wants to also set up guidelines
on the free zone of liquefied natural gas [LNG] adding;" it is
the commitment of this administration to use the free zones scheme
as a platform for the domestication of earnings in the oil and gas
sector of the economy to enable the nation benefit maximally from this
sector"
Meanwhile, the chief executive officer of Nigeria Export Processing
Zones Authority [NEPZA] Sina Agboluaje has disclosed that two major
oil and gas projects of OKLNG in the OKFTZ and Brass LNG has concluded
plans to move into the NLG free trade zone as a pioneer investor.
The OKLNG Free Trade Zone is a collaborative venture between Ogun
and Ondo States Government. Benefits to the two states and the nation
include: increase in revenue generation, social welfare development,
Optimisation of Nigeria Labour, expansion of economic activities, linkage
of local enterprises, addition of value to primary products through
manufacturing/processing activities infrastructures development, generation
of employment opportunities including opportunities for human capital
development, as well as youth employment.
The free trade zone is further designed to facilitate international
trade, promote the diversification of the export base of the nation
through the acceleration of export business with attendant incentives,
promote rapid industrialisation and facilita
