Profiles International Human Rights Advocate

 Shallow Men Believe in Luck; Wise and Strong Men in Cause and Effect The Nigeria Customs Service. In the challenging situation of national security, the role of customs officers is pivotal. The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), under the leadership of Comptroller General Bashir Adeniyi, stands as a bulwark against threats that could destabilize the nation. The importance of their work cannot be overstated, as it directly influences the effectiveness of other security agencies in Nigeria. Without the diligent efforts of customs officers, the security agencies would face increased challenges and criticisms, often undeservedly. As I highlighted in my previous article, President Ahmed Bola Tinubu made a prudent decision in appointing the right man for this critical job. The Nigeria Customs Service is performing commendably in safeguarding the nation. Imagine the nightmare and the challenges the Nigerian security agencies would have faced if the Nigerian customs officers hadn't done their...

 Challenges Preventing Southeast States from Achieving Good Revenue and Infrastructure Development. The disparity between the economic potential and actual revenue generation in the Southeast states of Nigeria is stark. Despite having a significant number of wealthy individuals, such as those in Anambra State, the region lags behind states like Ogun in revenue generation. This gap is attributed to several key challenges: Insecurity Widespread insecurity, including violence and kidnapping, has severely impacted economic and traditional activity in the Southeast. Many businesses have relocated to safer areas, leading to reduced economic activity and tax revenue. High-profile relocations include notable businessmen such as Cubana Chief Priest and Obi Cubana, who moved their operations to Lagos. This trend highlights the severe impact of insecurity on local economies. Additionally, some governors of Southeast states spend significant time outside the region, further exacerbating the in...

 Seyi Tinubu, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: A Comprehensive Overview The Nigerian economic hardship could be traced back to the previous administrations and the ability to ignore challenging responsibilities. Seyi Tinubu is the Nigerian first-son entrepreneur and the CEO of Loatsad Promomedia Ltd, an out-of-home advertising company. Beyond his business endeavors, Seyi is a devoted family man, married to Layal Tinubu. He also serves as a patron of the STL Polo Team and sits on the boards of several organizations, reflecting his diverse interests. As a vocal supporter of his father, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Seyi frequently emphasizes resilience and patience amid Nigeria's challenges, using hashtags like #HaveFaithinHim and #RenewedHope to rally public support. However, his visibility has attracted criticism, notably for using a presidential jet to attend a polo match, which sparked public outcry due to perceived extravagance during national economic hardsh...

 Empowering Kogi State: The Impact of First Lady Hajiya Sefinat Usman Ododo In Kogi State, Hajiya Sefinat Usman Ododo, the esteemed First Lady, stands as an inspiration of hope and empowerment. Her deep commitment to social welfare, education, and women's rights embodies a leadership ethos that transcends mere titles, fostering a profound moral connection with the people she serves. Realizing that one is not alone, but rather part of a global sisterhood is vital. Born in the culturally rich city of Okene, Hajiya Sefinat has transformed her upbringing into a lifelong dedication to community service. As the youngest in a disciplined family, she absorbed values of integrity and compassion, which now fuel her initiatives across Kogi State. Her leadership is characterized by collaboration, encouraging women, especially the wives of government officials, to unite in supporting the state’s development. A passionate advocate for education, particularly for girls, Hajiya Sefinat champions g...

 One of the major sources of revenue for the federal Government is the  Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). It's highly significant for the president to give the job to those who can bring results. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Adewale Adeniyi as the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). Governed by the Public Service Rules (PSR), this appointment entrusts Adeniyi with steering the NCS towards greater efficiency and effectiveness. Historical Context and Organizational Structure. The NCS boasts a rich history dating back to 1891. In 1992, the Department of Customs and Excise was transferred back to the Federal Ministry of Finance, solidifying its status as a paramilitary organization and rebranding it as the Nigeria Customs Service. The NCS operates under the jurisdiction of the Federal Ministry of Finance, with its headquarters located in Abuja, Nigeria. The NCS is headed by the Comptroller-General, who oversees the work of seven Deputy Comptrollers-Gene...

 Tribute to Ibrahim Kanje Bawa SAN: A Pillar of Legal Excellence and Philanthropy Born on December 27, 1963, in Mavo, Wase Local Government Area of Plateau State, Ibrahim Kanje Bawa SAN’s journey to prominence began with a solid educational foundation. Starting at Lea Primary School, Mavo (1971-1976), and progressing through Government Secondary School, Wase, and the School of Preliminary Studies, Keffi (1976-1981), his path to legal distinction was firmly established. His academic pursuits at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria (1981-1983), and the Nigerian Law School, Lagos (1983-1986) culminated in his legal expertise, further honed at the Institute of Advanced Legal Studies (1986-1987) and during his NYSC tenure (1987-1988). Bawa's illustrious legal career began at Choji & Co. as a Junior Counsel (1988-1990), followed by his role as Senior Instructor at the Development Centre in Jos (1990-1992). His leadership skills were evident as a Partner at T.U. Lektu & Co. (1992-1993) ...

 Open Letter to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Dear EFCC, I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to seek clarification regarding the recent judgment involving Cubana Chief Priest on charges of Naira abuse and the differences in penalties imposed compared to other similar cases, specifically that of Bobrisky, who was sentenced to six months in prison for the same offense. The key points that prompt this request for clarification are as follows: 1. Legal Framework and Discretion: Under Section 14(2) of the EFCC Establishment Act, the EFCC has discretionary power to compound offenses and impose fines exceeding the statutory maximum. In Cubana Chief Priest's case, a fine of N10 million was imposed, which is significantly higher than the N50,000 statutory maximum. 2. Proportionality of the Penalty: The vast discrepancy between the statutory maximum fine and the imposed fine raises questions about proportionality and fairness. Furthermore, the difference in...

 Tribute to David Akinremi by Daniel Okonkwo David Akinremi was a gentleman of remarkable distinction. I first met him during his tenure as the area commander of Area E, Festac, where he served as Assistant Commissioner of Police. From that moment, I recognized a man whose dedication to service was both unwavering and inspiring.  Appointed as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police in 1986, David’s career was highly professional in his commitment to the safety and security of our nation. His contributions were not merely professional duties but acts of genuine devotion to upholding the rule of law, protecting the rights of citizens, and maintaining peace within our communities. David held several prominent positions throughout his illustrious career, including serving as the Commissioner of Police in charge of Taraba State, leading the IGP X-Squad, and acting as the Deputy Force Secretary at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. Each role he undertook was marked by his integrity...

 The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, has marked significant achievements in his first year in office. Appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Adeniyi's tenure has seen a strategic alignment of the NCS's statutory responsibilities with the administration's policy directives. His efforts have focused on trade facilitation, revenue collection, societal protection, and stakeholder collaboration. Adeniyi has prioritized transforming Nigeria into Africa’s most efficient trading nation. Key initiatives include: - Decongesting Port Areas: Efforts to reduce congestion within a 4km radius of ports for cargo, road, and railway users. - Enforcing a 48-hour Clearance Directive: Ensuring goods at seaports are cleared within 48 hours, in line with Executive Order 001. - Implementing the National Single Window Trading Platform: Streamlining import and export processes. - Establishing Dedicated Export Terminals: Enhancing capacity and ...

 The Nigeria Customs Service exemplifies efficiency and effectiveness, fully committed to its mission, especially in generating substantial revenue for the federal government. Recognizing the crucial need for strong leadership in this vital institution, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR) as the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service. Alhaji Adeniyi, a man of exceptional intellect and sound education, was honored with the national distinction of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) by former President Muhammadu Buhari on October 11, 2022. In his strategic efforts to enhance the Customs Service's efficiency, Comptroller General Adeniyi assigned the Kebbi Area Command to Command, Comptroller Iheanacho Ernest Ojike. A senior officer renowned for his integrity and dedication, Comptroller Ojike has swiftly proven to be an exemplary choice, delivering outstanding results since his appointment. Under Comptroller Ojike’s leader...