All Roads Lead to Apapa Tomorrow, Tuesday, Sept 30

…As Maritime Editors Hold Seminar, Award Ceremony

BY FUNMI ALUKO

The League of Maritime Editors (LOME) is set to host its highly anticipated Seminar and Award Ceremony tomorrow, Tuesday, September 30, at the Rockview Hotel, Apapa, Lagos.

The event promises to be a landmark gathering for stakeholders across Nigeria’s maritime sector. With the theme “Nigeria’s Chairmanship of WCO Council: The Expected Benefits for the Nation’s Economy,” the seminar will spotlight the historic election of Nigeria’s Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, as Chairman of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council.

CGC Adeniyi, elected on June 28, 2025, is the first Nigerian to hold the position since the WCO’s inception in 1952.

While Adeniyi will grace the occasion as Special Guest of Honour, Chief (Dr) Eugene Nweke, a respected freight forwarder is scheduled to deliver the keynote address.

The seminar will delve into the economic implications of Nigeria’s new role within the WCO, not only for the country but for the broader West African sub-region. Government maritime agencies will also present short lectures on trade facilitation and its impact on the industry, offering insights into policy directions and operational dynamics.

The ceremony will feature a prestigious award segment, recognizing key industry players for their outstanding contributions. Among the honorees are Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and Dr. Pius Akutah, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC).

The event will be chaired by Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, Charles Edike Rtd.

According to a statement jointly signed by LOME President Mrs. Remi Itie and Public Relations Officer Mr. Francis Ugwoke, the event is expected to draw top executives from the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, shipping service providers, and other key stakeholders.

With high-level participation and a timely theme, the LOME seminar is poised to be a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s maritime community.