Inside Watch Africa -IWA

18/06/2026

Customs Intercepts Massive Tapentadol Haul, Strengthens Ties with NDLEA in Major Security Operation

LAGOS, NIGERIA – In a significant display of inter-agency collaboration and intelligence-led enforcement, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Murtala Muhammed Area Command (MMAC), has formally handed over a substantial consignment of illicit Tapentadol (250mg) tablets to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

The interception, executed at Nigeria's premier international gateway, underscores the evolving nature of modern border management and the NCS's unwavering commitment to combating transnational criminal networks. The operation highlights the Service's dual mandate—not only revenue generation but also safeguarding national borders, protecting public health, and shielding African communities from the socio-economic devastation wrought by the global illicit drug trade.

Intelligence Triumph and Operational Excellence

Speaking at the formal handover ceremony in Lagos, Customs Area Controller (CAC) of MMAC, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, described the interception as a defining victory for the Service's modernised enforcement strategy. He attributed the success to meticulous intelligence-gathering, swift operational ex*****on, and a zero-tolerance stance toward economic and security sabotage.

"This interception is a profound testament to the changing face of border enforcement within the Nigeria Customs Service," Otunla stated. "We are no longer just reacting; we are utilising advanced intelligence to disrupt criminal supply chains before they touch our communities. Trafficking harmful substances of this magnitude undermines national security, drains youth productivity, and threatens the socio-economic stability of the continent. The Nigeria Customs Service remains an impenetrable wall against such elements."

The Controller extended special commendation to the officers of the Special Wildlife Office under the NCS Intelligence Unit, whose exceptional vigilance and timely intelligence reports laid the groundwork for the operation. He equally praised the frontline personnel of the MMAC for their seamless coordination and tactical discipline, which ensured the illegal cargo was neutralised upon arrival.

Global Partnerships Strengthen Border Security

A notable feature of the operation was the critical technical support and real-time collaboration provided by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Customs Administration. This cross-continental partnership demonstrates how international alliances are essential to dismantling sophisticated, borderless criminal syndicates.

Following strict legal and administrative protocols, the intercepted Tapentadol—a potent synthetic opioid with severe public health implications when abused—was formally transferred into NDLEA custody. The seamless handover reflects deepening institutional synergy between the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, and the NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), as they forge a united front against drug cartels.

A Safer Africa, One Border at a Time

As African governments accelerate regional integration under frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the security of transit hubs has become increasingly critical. The vigilance of the Murtala Muhammed Area Command sends a clear signal to global markets: Nigeria is expanding trade facilitation while simultaneously tightening its grip on illicit flows.

By fortifying entry points, upgrading intelligence-sharing mechanisms, and deepening international partnerships, the Nigeria Customs Service continues to contribute to a safer, more stable, and prosperous Africa—one border at a time.

16/06/2026

Around the world, our differences give us unique perspectives, experiences, and ideas. Yet history—and our shared humanity—continually reminds us that we are always stronger when we stand together.

My travels across Africa for work have reinforced one beautiful truth: Africans are deeply communal people. We welcome strangers as guests, embrace visitors as family, and look out for one another. This spirit of togetherness is not just a tradition—it is woven into the fabric of who we are.

Our wisdom is reflected in the proverbs passed down through generations:

The Yoruba of Nigeria say that a bundle of brooms cannot be broken.

The Bondei of Kenya remind us that while a single stick can easily snap, many sticks bound together can withstand the fiercest storm.

Differences and disagreements are a natural part of life, but they should never be allowed to divide us. Instead, they should strengthen our understanding of one another and deepen our collective resolve.

Let us celebrate our unity, for it remains our greatest strength and our most enduring superpower.

The Federal Government is reportedly considering possible sanctions...

13/06/2026

Comptroller Anani Hits the Ground Running at Tin Can Command, Engages Stakeholders, Sets Clear Rules

TIN CAN ISLAND PORT, LAGOS – The new Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Tin Can Island Port Command, Comptroller Joseph Anani, has kicked off his tenure with a series of strategic engagements, facility inspections, and courtesy visits aimed at boosting operational efficiency, building stakeholder trust, and strengthening inter-agency collaboration.

As part of his familiarisation tour, Comptroller Anani conducted an extensive inspection of Customs formations and terminals within the command to gain first-hand knowledge of available facilities, assess officers’ working conditions, and evaluate the overall operational environment. The inspection, his first official assignment, was designed to improve workplace standards and ensure that officers are well-positioned to deliver on the mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

Stakeholder engagement and compliance blueprint

In his maiden stakeholder engagement, the Comptroller convened a strategic meeting with major freight forwarding associations, including the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), the National Council of Managing Directors of Licensed Customs Agents (NCMDLCA), the Association of Practitioners of Freight Forwarding and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON), and other industry players. During the engagement, he underscored the importance of compliance, professionalism, and partnership in achieving seamless trade operations.

Comptroller Anani outlined a blueprint anchored on total compliance with all Customs procedures and extant laws, particularly the provisions of the NCS Act 2023. He called for higher standards in all port transactions and warned against any form of indiscipline, misconduct, or practices capable of undermining the integrity of the service.

“We are setting a new tone anchored on compliance, collaboration, and service excellence,” he said. “Every stakeholder has a role to play in making Tin Can Island Port a model of trade facilitation and operational efficiency.”

The Comptroller also hosted terminal operators, shipping companies, importers, exporters, and industry captains at a roundtable designed to chart a progressive course for the command. He assured stakeholders of an open-door policy and pledged to create a conducive environment that supports legitimate trade and economic growth. He further urged terminal operators to improve infrastructure within their facilities and create additional operational spaces capable of attracting more vessel traffic, thereby enhancing the port’s competitiveness and efficiency.

Reinforcing security and anti-drug collaboration

Recognising the importance of collaboration in achieving national security objectives, Comptroller Anani paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police, Port Authority Police (Western Command), CP Toyin Agbaminoja. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation on issues relating to national security, port operations, and the safety of lives and property. The Commissioner pledged the continued support of the Nigeria Police Force through intelligence sharing and operational collaboration.

In a similar move to reinforce the fight against illicit trade and transnational crime, Comptroller Anani visited the Commander of Narcotics at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Commander Solomon Omotosho. The two agencies discussed strategies for sustained synergy in combating drug trafficking and the activities of drug peddlers operating within and around the port environment. They emphasised intelligence-driven operations, information sharing, and coordinated enforcement actions to prevent illicit narcotics from moving through the nation’s gateways.

Gratitude to CGC and forward-looking vision

Comptroller Anani expressed profound appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for the confidence reposed in him through his appointment as CAC of the nation’s premier port command. He pledged to justify that trust by building on existing achievements while advancing the core mandates of the NCS.

The Controller noted that the command will continue to draw from the CGC’s policy thrust—anchored on Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation—as guiding principles for enhancing trade facilitation, revenue generation, stakeholder engagement, and national security.

05/06/2026

Meet the Thought Leaders Shaping Africa’s MICE Future in 2026

As Africa’s business events industry continues to strengthen its global footprint and accelerate its post-pandemic recovery, the MICE Research & Business Development Fellowship Programme has unveiled an impressive faculty for its 2026 edition—a distinguished group of industry leaders committed to nurturing the next generation of African professionals in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.

Following a successful inaugural edition that attracted emerging professionals from Zimbabwe, Ghana, Nigeria and South Africa, the Fellowship has rapidly positioned itself as a strategic leadership platform for the continent’s business events ecosystem. The intensive three-month programme combines research, mentorship, industry engagement and practical project implementation, providing participants with the skills and insights required to strengthen destinations, unlock investment opportunities and drive sustainable growth within Africa’s tourism and events industries.

The 2026 faculty comprises seasoned professionals whose expertise spans destination marketing, conference bidding, hospitality development, digital transformation, exhibitions, trade promotion, partnerships, incentive travel, event management and business development. Collectively, they bring decades of executive leadership experience and a shared vision of elevating Africa’s competitiveness within the global business events marketplace.

Nonnie Kubeka: Driving Destination Marketing and Business Development

Recognised as one of Africa’s leading MICE strategists, Nonnie Kubeka brings more than 25 years of experience across the business events, tourism and financial services sectors. As Head of the Gauteng Convention and Events Bureau (GCEB), she has successfully led bids for major international conferences, exhibitions and sporting events, helping position Gauteng as a preferred global destination for business tourism.

Her distinguished career includes senior leadership roles with Grant Thornton, Transnet, Standard Bank Corporate and Investment Banking, the Cape Town International Convention Centre and Gauteng Tourism. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) in Accounting and an MBA in Strategic Marketing.

A respected industry advocate and international speaker, Kubeka has earned numerous accolades, including the ICCA Inspirational Award, the Standard Bank Top Women Leadership Award, several Eventex Global recognitions and honours from Forbes Africa for her contributions to leadership and industry development.

Within the Fellowship, she will mentor participants on destination marketing, strategic business development and the art of securing international conference bids that deliver measurable economic and social impact.

Wade Scobbie: Harnessing Digital Transformation for Industry Growth

In an era where digital innovation increasingly shapes tourism and business events, Wade Scobbie offers valuable expertise at the intersection of technology, marketing and commercial performance.

Currently serving as Head of Travel and Hospitality at SearchKings, Scobbie specialises in data-driven marketing strategies designed to enhance customer acquisition, revenue generation and digital visibility for hospitality and tourism organisations. His professional experience encompasses hospitality growth strategies, search engine optimisation (SEO), digital marketing, lead conversion and commercial performance management across global travel brands.

Through his extensive work with hospitality portfolios, Scobbie has developed deep insights into the opportunities emerging within Africa’s evolving MICE landscape and the role digital infrastructure plays in enhancing destination competitiveness.

As part of the Fellowship faculty, he will equip participants with practical knowledge in digital visibility, customer journey analytics and performance-driven growth strategies—critical tools for destinations, venues and hospitality enterprises seeking to thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Keke Matlou: Championing Incentive Travel and Experiential Excellence

Award-winning business leader, media personality and MICE professional Keke Matlou brings more than 25 years of experience in international incentives, event management, business development, media and philanthropy.

Renowned for creating impactful experiences that deliver measurable business outcomes, Matlou has built a reputation for generating lasting value for clients, stakeholders and destinations through innovative event and incentive programmes.

She maintains active involvement in several leading industry associations, including the PCO Alliance Network, the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE), the Africa Business Travel Association (ABTA) and the Africa Incentive Travel Council. As Director of Incentives and Events at IAE Media, Events and Incentives, as well as Director at Uwin Iwin, she has successfully delivered world-class incentive programmes and strategic events for a diverse range of organisations.

Through the Fellowship, Matlou will share her expertise in incentive travel, customer experience, event strategy and business development, helping participants understand how well-designed experiences can strengthen stakeholder relationships, drive engagement and contribute to sustainable destination growth.

Building Africa’s Future Business Events Leaders

As Africa seeks to expand its influence within the global meetings and events industry, initiatives such as the MICE Research & Business Development Fellowship Programme are playing a critical role in developing the leadership, innovation and strategic capacity required to compete on the world stage.

By connecting emerging professionals with accomplished industry leaders, the Fellowship is not only investing in individual careers but also contributing to the long-term growth and competitiveness of Africa’s tourism and business events sector. The 2026 faculty reflects the calibre of expertise needed to unlock new opportunities, attract international events and position Africa as a leading destination for business tourism in the decades ahead.

04/06/2026

Today, 4 June 2026, the Institute of Hospitality (IOH) Nigeria hosts its Annual General Meeting and Regional Committee Elections at Amber Residence, Ikeja, Lagos.

I’m honoured to serve as Master of Ceremonies for this key gathering of hospitality professionals and industry leaders. Looking forward to a day of robust deliberations, fresh leadership, and a shared vision for the future of hospitality in Nigeria.

Wishing all attendees insightful conversations and an unforgettable event.

27/05/2026

Reflecting on NANTA at 50: Embracing Our Cultural Heritage as Global Ambassadors

​The ancient and historic city of Ibadan, Oyo State, recently stood as the epicenter of African aviation and tourism as the National Association of Nigerian Travel Agencies (NANTA) hosted its landmark Annual General Meeting (AGM) from April 14 to April 18, 2026. This year’s gathering was profoundly historic, marking a golden jubilee of resilience, growth, and excellence within Nigeria’s travel ecosystem. It brought together visionary travel professionals, industry leaders, and key delegates from across the continent.
​I had the distinct privilege of hosting the conference segment of this golden jubilee AGM. The core message of the convention was clear and resonant: an urgent, essential call to action for travel practitioners to redefine their roles not just as agents, but as Global Travel Ambassadors who firmly uphold and market our rich African cultural heritage.
​Reflecting deeply on this theme, it becomes evident that whether we realize it or not, we are all custodians of the African narrative on the global stage. One of the most potent ways to effectively project our continent’s voice and value is to intentionally elevate, celebrate, and integrate our cultural heritage into everything we do. Africa’s time is now, and our heritage is our ultimate passport.
​

26/05/2026

PTML Gets New Leadership as Miko Pledges Integrity, Seamless Trade Facilitation

The leadership transition at the Nigeria Customs Service Ports Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command has ushered in a renewed commitment to integrity, collaboration, and efficient trade facilitation, as Deputy Comptroller Nura Ibrahim Miko formally assumed office as Acting Controller of the command.

Taking over from Comptroller Joseph Anani, who has now been redeployed to the Nigeria Customs Service Tin Can Island Command, Miko pledged to build on the operational gains already recorded at PTML while deepening stakeholder confidence in the command’s processes.

Addressing officers, stakeholders, and partner agencies during the handover ceremony, the new Acting Controller stressed that integrity and due process would remain central pillars of his administration.

According to him, leadership at the command would be driven by cooperation rather than fear, with teamwork positioned as the foundation for achieving measurable results.

“I am here to work with you, not merely to lead you,” Miko declared, assuring officers and stakeholders that trade facilitation would continue to receive priority attention under his watch.

Describing PTML as one of the most organised commands within the Customs system, he commended the achievements of his predecessor and pledged to consolidate on the existing framework of reforms and operational efficiency.

The new Controller also emphasised the importance of inter-agency cooperation in sustaining effective port operations. He noted that seamless cargo clearance, revenue generation, and national security could only thrive where institutions work together with mutual respect and shared purpose.

Miko further reassured stakeholders that the command would remain open to constructive engagement, transparency, accessibility, and fairness in its dealings with importers, clearing agents, and other operators within the maritime sector.

In aligning himself with the broader reform agenda of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the Acting Controller pledged support for the policy thrust of innovation, consolidation, and collaboration, which has increasingly shaped conversations around modern customs administration in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, outgoing Controller Joseph Anani reflected on his eight-month stewardship at PTML as a period marked by institutional transition, innovation, and operational consolidation.

Anani disclosed that the command generated more than ₦181 billion in revenue during his tenure, underscoring PTML’s strategic importance within Nigeria’s maritime and trade ecosystem.

He recalled the pivotal role played by his predecessor in pioneering the rollout of the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), popularly known as “B’Odogwu,” noting that his own administration focused on stabilising the platform and addressing the early operational challenges associated with the digital transition.

According to him, the success recorded during the transition period was made possible through the collective support of Customs officers, sister agencies, and industry stakeholders.

Beyond revenue generation, Anani highlighted the command’s enforcement achievements, including the interception and handover of illicit drugs, arms, and ammunition to relevant security and regulatory agencies such as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, and the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons under the Office of the National Security Adviser.

He also pointed to PTML’s groundbreaking achievement in facilitating one-hour clearance for compliant vehicle imports — a development widely regarded as a major milestone in Nigeria’s drive towards port efficiency and ease of doing business.

For many observers within the maritime sector, the transition at PTML reflects a broader shift within the Nigerian Customs system towards technology-driven operations, institutional accountability, and collaborative governance — reforms increasingly seen as essential to unlocking Africa’s trade and logistics potential in a rapidly evolving global economy.

20/05/2026

As Africans, we must never surrender the narratives that shape our collective future to misinformation, fear, or division. We must continue to tell our stories with honesty, empathy, and a commitment to unity.

Last night in Johannesburg, the South Africa-Nigeria Business Chamber, in collaboration with the Consul General of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Amb. Nini Okey-Uche, and the newly formed Group of Nigerian Professionals in Johannesburg, convened an important Business Roundtable that brought together business leaders, professionals, and key stakeholders from both countries.

The gathering provided a valuable platform for open dialogue, collaboration, and relationship-building between the South African and Nigerian business communities — a timely conversation at a period when misunderstandings and negative narratives continue to test the bonds that should unite Africans.

There have been many assumptions surrounding the recent wave of hostility directed at fellow Africans living in South Africa, including Nigerians. However, beyond the emotions and headlines, it is important to acknowledge that misconceptions, misinformation, economic pressures, and social frustrations often combine to create tensions that do not truly reflect the values and spirit of the African people.

History reminds us that Africans stood together during the liberation struggles that helped shape democratic South Africa. Nigerians, alongside many other Africans, made significant contributions to that historic journey. Equally, it is important to state that criminality has no nationality, and no genuine African community should shield or encourage unlawful acts, regardless of who is involved.

At a time when unemployment and economic hardship are affecting nations across the continent, Africa must look inward for sustainable solutions rooted in partnership, enterprise, innovation, and mutual respect. The future of the continent will not be built through division, but through cooperation and shared prosperity.

In line with its mandate to deepen trade and investment relations between two of Africa’s leading economies — South Africa and Nigeria — the Chamber considered it necessary to lend its voice to this important conversation.

Africa’s strength has always been in its people, its resilience, and its unity. We must therefore continue to own and shape the narratives that define our continent.

18/05/2026

AFRICA’S TRAVEL INDABA 2026 DRIVES AFRICAN TRADE AND TOURISM GROWTH

Durban, South Africa | 15 May 2026 — Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 has concluded on a high note, reaffirming its position not only as one of the continent’s leading tourism trade platforms, but as a powerful driver of economic growth, market access, enterprise development, policy dialogue and continental collaboration.

Hosted in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, in the city of Durban, under the theme “Unlimited Africa: Growing Africa’s Tourism Economy,” this strategic platform reinforced the critical importance of stronger participation from across the African continent to fully unlock Africa’s tourism potential. It also provided an opportunity to showcase the best of Africa’s destinations brands and their offering, signalling the strong alignment with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Early projections indicate a significant economic boost for Durban, with hotel occupancy projected at an impressive 97%. The event and related activities are estimated to have attracted approximately 9,810 delegates, including 274 hosted buyers, 637 non-hosted buyers, and 404 registered media generating around R240 million in direct spending and an estimated R835 million in total tourism expenditure, while supporting more than 1,122 jobs.

Commenting on the event’s overall performance, South African Tourism Chief Convention Bureau Officer, Corne Koch, said: “Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 has demonstrated the power of this platform to connect Africa to the world while delivering measurable value for our tourism economy. This year’s show reflects both the scale of global interest in Africa’s tourism offering and the confidence in South Africa’s ability to host world-class trade platforms. These figures are not just numbers, they represent trade opportunities, destination visibility, enterprise inclusion and long-term growth for Africa’s tourism economy.”

“We have proved beyond doubt that Africa’s Travel Indaba belongs here in KwaZulu-Natal. The focus now is to build on the lessons and momentum of this year’s event while ensuring stronger participation from all African states so that the platform truly reflects the full strength and potential of Africa’s tourism economy,” said Interim CEO of KZN Tourism and Film, Sibusiso Gumbi.

Gumbi said KwaZulu-Natal’s presence at this year’s Africa’s Travel Indaba reflected a deliberate focus on positioning tourism as a driver of investment, enterprise development and long-term economic growth.

The City of Durban also welcomed the event’s broader economic and destination impact. Deputy Director of Durban Tourism within eThekwini Municipality, Ms Winile Mntungwa, said: “The confidence shown by delegates, buyers, media, and international stakeholders confirms Durban’s readiness to host world-class events through our strong infrastructure, hospitality, logistics, and safety standards. What has been particularly exciting is the quality of participants, both regionally and globally, attending this year’s Indaba, which we believe will translate into meaningful business deals and long-term partnerships.

Beyond business exchange, Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 elevated its role as a platform for shaping the future of African tourism through strategic dialogue, innovation and practical collaboration.

Approximately 300 Durban University of Technology tourism students were provided with vocational and skills development opportunities through active roles in event operations, ushering and delegate services, contributing to long-term workforce readiness and sector sustainability.

As Africa’s Travel Indaba 2026 concludes, it leaves behind more than strong economic figures. It leaves behind proof of tourism’s power to create jobs, unlock markets, strengthen policy dialogue, accelerate innovation, empower communities and deepen African collaboration.

Africa’s Travel Indaba remains more than a trade show. It is a strategic continental platform where Africa’s tourism economy is profiled, partnerships are forged, barriers are challenged, and the future of African tourism is shaped.

Issued by South African Tourism

15/05/2026

One of the surest ways to truly maximise the experience of conferences and trade fairs — especially those spanning several days — is to stay in a hotel strategically close to the venue. Convenience, comfort, and accessibility often shape the quality of the entire experience.

At this year’s Africa Travel Indaba 2026, I stayed at the Royal Majestic Hotel, located literally less than a two-minute walk from the Durban International Convention Centre. Without exaggeration, this proximity significantly enhanced my ATI 2026 experience.

Naturally, I seized the opportunity to interview Walid Mahmoud, who also attended ATI 2026. Speaking on the hotel’s unique selling proposition, Walid — a hospitality professional with over twenty-five years of experience in hotel management — explained that Royal Majestic is introducing a rich cocktail of Abu Dhabi-inspired Arabic elegance blended with authentic African hospitality.

According to him, beyond the impressive infrastructure and ambience, the hotel is committed to delivering unforgettable experiences that leave lasting memories for every guest who walks through its doors.

Please look out for the full version of the interview in the June edition of Inside Watch Africa (IWA).