BY GODWIN OBI
In a renewed push to fortify Nigeria’s busiest port corridor, the Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Navy have reaffirmed their commitment to tighter operational synergy aimed at strengthening maritime security and accelerating trade facilitation.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, made this known on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, during a courtesy visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha.
The engagement, underscored by shared resolve and strategic alignment, echoes the leadership vision of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, anchored on three policy pillars — Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation.
Speaking during the visit, Comptroller Oshoba stressed that continuity and partnership remain central to the Command’s agenda.
“On assuming duty, I resolved to consolidate on the gains already recorded and deepen the existing relationship between the Apapa Command and the Nigerian Navy within this axis,” he stated.
Highlighting the imperative of collaboration in modern border management, Oshoba noted that Customs’ mandate extends beyond revenue collection and trade facilitation.
“While Customs is widely recognised for trade facilitation and revenue generation, we also perform critical security functions. To effectively deliver on this responsibility, collaboration with the military — the mother of security — is indispensable.”
On innovation, the CAC described adaptive strategies and stronger inter-agency cooperation as key drivers of improved results.
“Innovation means doing things differently to achieve better outcomes. Strengthening inter-agency cooperation is a vital part of that innovative approach.”
Comptroller Oshoba commended the Nigerian Navy’s steadfast role in safeguarding the maritime domain, emphasising that port efficiency is inseparable from maritime safety.
“No vessel can access our ports without safe waters. We appreciate your vital role in keeping the maritime environment secure.”
He further appealed for sustained naval support along the Apapa port corridor to ensure seamless cargo movement and reduce logistics bottlenecks.
Responding, Rear Admiral Mustapha reaffirmed the Navy’s readiness to maintain a robust and results-oriented partnership with the NCS.
“Port security thrives on inter-agency coordination. Without security, there can be no development,” the FOC said.
He lauded the performance of the Service under Adeniyi’s leadership, citing notable strides in revenue protection and national economic contributions.
“The Customs has performed excellently in blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets. Continue the good work. Increased revenue translates into stronger infrastructure and a more resilient social safety net for the nation.”
Rear Admiral Mustapha assured the Apapa Command of the Navy’s continued cooperation in securing Nigeria’s maritime gateway and supporting broader economic growth objectives.
The renewed alliance signals a strengthened front between two critical institutions, reinforcing confidence in the safety, stability, and efficiency of Nigeria’s maritime trade ecosystem.
ADVERTISEMENTS
