In a determined move to burst the red tape evident in administrative bottlenecks and allied bureaucracies that have constituted impediments to maximising the comparative advantages that  Nigeria’s maritime endowments confer, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated the Steering Committee on the Implementation of the National Single Window Project.

The Single Window solution interconnects all stakeholders involved in foreign trade and enables them to perform trade procedures on one platform. The Single Window provides a comprehensive online environment for all governmental and business users such as importers, exporters, declarants, commercial banks, carriers, Customs, ministries, and other government agencies to perform trade operations.

By simplifying and automating Customs and trade processes, traders and Government agents benefit from smoother processes that enable a reduction of clearance times.

The Unified Trade Window secures Government revenue and improves the overall country’s image in international trade indicators.

The Managing Director, Mohammed Bello KoKo, who was named by the President as part of the Implementation Committee had earlier led the NPA to enlist the technical guidance of the International  Maritime Organisation (IMO)in preparedness for the seamless implementation of NSW with the Authority’s finalisation of the consultancy for the Port Community System, which lays the groundwork for the National Single Window.

…Says ‘one-way’ traffic offenders to undergo psychiatric tests

…Warns against fake personnel, releases hotlines

By Sodiq Adelakun

The Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, has announced significant achievements in the transportation sector in the state, highlighting the success of various initiatives aimed at improving commuter experiences.

He revealed that since the inception of the Blue Line Mass Transit, over one million passengers have been transported.

This was made known on Tuesday during the commencement of the 2024 ministerial briefing on the ministry’s activities under the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, held at Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

He said Lagos Bus Services Limited (LBSL) has emerged as a key player, ferrying over 51 million passengers since its establishment in May 2019. Additionally, the Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) has significantly contributed to efficient water transportation, facilitating the movement of 2 million riders through the Lagos Inland Waterways.

According to Mr. Osiyemi, since the commencement of operations of the Blue Line Mass Transit, over one million passengers have been transported, with plans to accommodate 250,000 passengers daily once the Red Line becomes operational.

“The Lagos Bus Services Limited (LBSL) has played a pivotal role, ferrying over 51 million passengers since its inception in May 2019.In addition, the Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY) has facilitated the transportation of 2 million riders through the Lagos Inland Waterways, contributing to efficient water transportation.

“The Lagos State Drivers’ Institute (LASDRI) has also made strides, training over 276,000 drivers since 2019. Furthermore, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has been instrumental in ensuring road safety, rescuing 1,869 accident victims across the state. To address traffic congestion, 1,574 parking slots have been marked and provided in traffic-prone areas.”

Also, in a bid to address the persistent issue of driving against the flow of traffic, commonly known as “One-Way,” the Lagos State Government has announced that any individual apprehended for driving against the flow of traffic will undergo a psychiatric evaluation in addition to facing prosecution under the provisions of Lagos State Traffic laws..

Expressing concern over the alarming rate of “One-Way” driving incidents, Osiyemi emphasised the government’s determination to curb the menace effectively.

The decision to subject offenders to psychiatric tests emphasised the severity of the offense and aims to address any underlying mental health issues contributing to such reckless behavior on the roads.

According to Osiyemi, “The menace of driving against flow of traffic is worrisome and the state government is determined to curb it.

“Henceforth, any offender apprehended will be taken for psychiatric test as well as prosecuted according to Lagos State Traffic laws.”

In response to this growing issue, Commissioner Osiyemi has provided two hotlines for the public to report any suspicious activities related to fake personnel or to alert authorities about traffic situations across the metropolis.

These hotlines, 09020009000 and 09020004000, serve as direct channels to relevant authorities and are aimed at ensuring the safety and security of residents.

Commissioner Osiyemi emphasised the importance of vigilance and urged residents to utilise these hotlines responsibly. He stressed that combating the activities of fake personnel is crucial for maintaining public trust and safety within the transportation sector.

By Adeyanju Esther

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has denied disregarding court order by its failed attempt to arrest the former governor of Kogi state, Mr. Yahaya Adoza Bello.

The EFCC, through its Acting Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Wilson Uwujaren, denied any breach of court orders as regards Bello.

Uwujaren clarified the picture in a press statement issued by the EFCC. He said while Mr. Bello had obtained an order from the Kogi State High Court to protect his personal liberty and freedom of movement, this order did not nullify a separate order issued by the Federal High Court for his arrest in connection with pending criminal charges.

Uwujaren distinguished between the orders, noting that the Kogi State High Court’s ruling did not impede the authority of the Federal High Court to issue an arrest warrant for Mr. Bello’s arraignment on criminal charges. He stressed that the EFCC’s actions were in accordance with the law and aimed at upholding justice.

Furthermore, Uwujaren underscored the EFCC’s unwavering commitment to prosecuting politically exposed individuals and fighting corruption in Nigeria. He urged Mr. Bello to cooperate with the Commission and submit himself to face the charges against him.

The statement appealed to all patriotic Nigerians to support the EFCC in its anti-corruption endeavors. Uwujaren affirmed the Commission’s resolve to continue its relentless pursuit of corruption and called for unity in the fight against this societal scourge.

As the debate rages on, the EFCC’s clarification sheds light on the legal complexities surrounding Mr. Bello’s case and underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law in Nigeria’s fight against corruption.