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Gulf of Guinea Records Lowest Piracy Incidents in 28 Years

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Nigerian waters Gulf of Guinea

By Adedapo Adesanya

The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has disclosed that the Gulf of Guinea, once a notorious hub for sea piracy, has recorded the lowest number of reported incidents for the first half of the year since 1994.

The bureau disclosed this in its half-year report of 2022 which coincided with the reduction in piracy around the globe, which it notes is evidence of its efforts in raising awareness to make the waters safe globally.

In a statement signed by Mr Edward Osagie, Assistant Director, Public Relations, Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), the IMB also expressed optimism that it was a new dawn for the shipping community globally.

The Gulf of Guinea Declaration (GoG) on Suppression of Piracy has confirmed that there has not been any case of Seafarers kidnap one year after the May 2021 declaration.

This is considered commendable progress in comparison to the 2020 statistics when 130 seafarers were kidnapped.

In the report, IMB Director, Mr Michael Howlett, also confirmed that no case of vessel hijack took place on Nigerian waters in the first half of 2022.

“The ICC and International Maritime Bureau (IMB) have confirmed that the first half of 2022 witnessed the least cases of piracy globally in 28 years with only 58 reported cases as compared to 68 within the same period in 2021.

“Of the 58 incidents, two were classified as piracy attacks in the Gulf of Guinea, with none of them occurring in Nigerian waters. While the reduction in reported incidents is indeed encouraging, the IMB PRC continues to caution against complacency,” he said.

Mr Howlett said that not only was this good news for the seafarers and the shipping industry, it was positive news for trade which promotes economic growth but the areas of risk shift and the shipping community must remain vigilant.

“We encourage governments and responding authorities to continue their patrols which create a deterrent effect,” he said.

The status report from the GoG declaration also confirmed that there had not been any case of kidnap for ransom in 2022, as against 20 cases in 2020 and 12 in 2021.

Responding to the report, the Director-General of NIMASA, Mr Bashir Jamoh, said that Nigeria was committed to sustaining the momentum of the success recorded in recent times in the fight against piracy in the region.

“It is heart-warming that the international maritime community is acknowledging the progress made so far. It is a direct result of collaboration amongst national, regional and non-regional stakeholders.

“It is our hope that this trend will be sustained and very soon, we will start reaping the benefits such as a change of status concerning the Insurance premium paid on Nigerian bound cargoes; the War Riskpremium being paid at the moment.

“We hope this status will change very soon,” he said.

Mr Jamoh said that the Baltic and International Maritime Council, (BIMCO), the world’s largest direct-membership organisation for ship-owners, charterers, shipbrokers, and agents called for the effective and full deployment of Deep Blue Assets on Anti-piracy tasking.

“Key to the successes in the war against piracy are efforts of the Nigerian Navy in clamping down on pirates camps, the Deep Blue project C4i coastal surveillance and collaboration with international Navies for law enforcement off Nigerian waters.

“Others are the series of meetings under the umbrella of the Gulf of Guinea maritime coordination Forum, Shared Awareness and DEconfliction, GoG/SHADE,” Mr Jamoh quoted BIMCO as saying.

Adedapo Adesanya is a journalist, polymath, and connoisseur of everything art. When he is not writing, he has his nose buried in one of the many books or articles he has bookmarked or simply listening to good music with a bottle of beer or wine. He supports the greatest club in the world, Manchester United F.C.

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Unlocking Profitability: The Benefits of Hiring a Property Management Company in West Palm Beach

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West Palm Beach Property Management

West Palm Beach’s vibrant real estate market beckons both seasoned and novice investors looking to reap substantial returns. However, property ownership comes with its fair share of challenges, including day-to-day maintenance, tenant relations, and the nuances of legal compliance. This is where the expertise of a property management company becomes invaluable. An efficient property manager can alleviate these burdens, permitting owners to enjoy their investments’ benefits with fewer headaches. Keep reading to discover how property management in West Palm Beach can enhance your real estate experience and profitability.

Unlocking Profitability: The Role of Property Management Companies in West Palm Beach

Property managers play a huge role in keeping rental properties profitable, especially in a competitive market like West Palm Beach. They handle the day-to-day work that often drains an owner’s time, from setting the right rental rates to advertising vacancies. Thanks to their knowledge of local trends, West Palm Beach Property Management teams help attract reliable tenants and keep units occupied.

They also serve as the bridge between owners and renters, managing everything from screenings and inspections to repairs and conflict resolution. By keeping properties well-maintained and responding quickly to tenant needs, they boost satisfaction and encourage long-term leases, ultimately protecting property value and strengthening steady cash flow for owners.

Enhancing Real Estate Value through Professional Property Management

Professional property management plays a key role in increasing long-term property value. These teams guide strategic upgrades and renovations that boost appeal and competitiveness in the West Palm Beach market. Consistent maintenance schedules protect essential features, prevent costly repairs, and support stronger property assessments. Skilled managers also anticipate market trends, directing improvements that align with evolving tenant expectations and help properties attract higher rents and responsible occupants.

By coordinating directly with contractors and service providers, they ensure all work meets professional standards while securing competitive pricing through established vendor relationships, giving property owners both savings and confidence in the care of their investment.

Streamlining Operations: How Property Management Saves You Time and Money

Property management services save investors valuable time by handling daily rental operations such as tenant acquisition, maintenance, and administrative tasks. Their expertise creates a streamlined system that frees owners to focus on growth or other pursuits. These firms also help reduce long-term costs through market knowledge, supplier discounts, and preventive maintenance that avoids expensive repairs.

They support strong financial performance with organized tracking of income, expenses, and profitability, making accounting and tax preparation easier. Their skill in budgeting and forecasting helps protect returns and keep investments on track, giving owners more flexibility while maintaining strong rental performance.

Attracting and Retaining Tenants with Expert Property Management Services

Property management companies play a vital role in attracting and keeping reliable tenants by using strong marketing tactics and thorough screening. Their tenant retention efforts, consistent communication, quick responses, and a respectful environment help reduce turnover and encourage long-term leases. Tenants feel more secure knowing they have a dependable point of contact for issues, which boosts satisfaction and stability.

Skilled managers also handle lease renewals and negotiations to maintain favorable terms. With deep awareness of tenant preferences and local market trends, they guide owners in adding desirable amenities that elevate a property’s appeal within West Palm Beach’s competitive rental market.

Navigating West Palm Beach’s Real Estate Legal Landscape with a Property Management Partner

Navigating property law and evolving regulations can be challenging for property owners, making legal compliance a complex task. Property management companies provide expertise in staying current with local, state, and federal laws, helping landlords avoid costly mistakes. They serve as advocates during tenant disputes or legal conflicts, managing issues professionally and, if needed, representing owners in court or negotiations.

These companies also draft and enforce comprehensive lease agreements, minimizing misunderstandings and fostering smooth landlord-tenant relationships. By implementing fair policies and rigorous safety measures, property managers reduce the risk of discrimination claims, safety violations, and other legal repercussions, ensuring both tenant protection and the long-term success of the property.

Altogether, engaging the services of a professional property management company in West Palm Beach is a shrewd investment in real estate success. Property owners benefit from the expertise that not only safeguards but also magnifies the potential of their assets, allowing them to enjoy the fruits of investment with minimal hassle.

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Pastor Ogbueli’s Abuja Night of Glory Holds Today

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Abuja Night of Glory

By Blaise Udunze

Momentum is gathering for the Abuja Night of Glory taking place today, Friday, December 5, 2025, at the main bowl of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.

The crusade is being hosted by Dominion City Church headed by Pastor David Ogbueli and it starts by 7pm.

The all-night programme will feature dynamic worship leaders like Nathanial Bassey, Dunsin Oyekan, Theophilus Sunday, Chioma Jesus, Kaestrings, Sunmisola Agbebi Okeleye, Minister GUC, Ebuka Songs, Anthony Kani, and DC Angels.

Reputed as a teacher of righteousness and anointed minister of the gospel, evidenced by the miracles that have trailed his ministry, and one who champions the cause of the poor through empowerment initiatives, Dr. David Ogbueli will be joined by renowned ministers from within and outside Nigeria, including Evangelist Andres Bisonni, Dr. Charles Ndifon, Evangelist Dan Scott, Apostle Ikechukwu Nnajiofor, and several others.

Night of Glory has, in previous editions held across Nigeria’s cities, recorded remarkable results, such as immediate healings and freedom from chronic ailments, recovery of vision and movement after many years of paralysis, along with liberation from dependencies and emotional distress. Numerous participants have also shared testimonies of breakthroughs and big personal changes after the experience. Organisers state that this year’s event, in Abuja, is anticipated to exceed previous editions.

The event is intended for all individuals trusting God for divine intervention in any area of life.

Understanding the role of faith in the destiny of individuals and nations, a dedicated prayer session for Nigeria will take place during the crusade to tackle some of the current challenges being faced in the country and also to uplift he leaders and institutions before God.

Attendance is free, and registration is encouraged via the QR codes on event banners. Organisers expect a massive turnout as worshippers travel from across the country for what is anticipated to be a transformative encounter.

Adequate security and free transportation have been put in place ALL over the city of Abuja, while those outside Abuja are expected to join online.

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Rivers Speaker, 15 Other Lawmakers Leave PDP for APC

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rivers speaker Martin Amaewhule defect

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Mr Martin Amaewhule, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

At the plenary on Friday, Mr Amaewhule joined the ruling party from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), along with 15 other members of the state parliament.

This development comes some months after they had earlier declared their support for the APC in the wake of a crisis with the state governor, Mr Sim Fubura.

The lawmakers had an issue with Mr Fubura, which led to a state of emergency declared on the oil-rich state by President Bola Tinubu in March 2025.

This embargo was only lift in September 2025 after the duration of the six-month emergency rule in the state.

A few days ago, members of the Rivers Assembly passed a vote of confidence on President Tinubu, backing him to remain in office till 2031, when he would have spent eight years in office if re-elected in 2027.

Announcing their defection today, the lawmakers pinned their decision on the crisis rocking the PDP at the national level.

It is not certain if their political godfather, Mr Nyesom Wike, who is the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), will join them in APC.

Mr Wike, who governed Rivers State from 2015 to 2023, has been accused of instigating the crisis in the opposition PDP. He was expelled from the party last month at a national convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State.

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