By Seun Ibiyemi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has intensified efforts to eliminate trade barriers affecting the free movement of goods and services along the Lagos-Abidjan business corridor through strategic collaboration with traditional rulers and sister security agencies.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Ben Oramalugo Kaila, disclosed this during a series of familiarisation visits to palaces of traditional rulers and offices of sister security agencies within the border communities, as part of efforts to align the command’s operations with the Federal Government’s economic policies.
Speaking at the palace of the Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, Comptroller Kaila expressed condolences to the royal family and the people of Badagry over the passing of HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, describing the late monarch as a highly respected traditional ruler across border communities.
He stated that the visit was aimed at introducing himself as the new Area Controller of the Seme Command and seeking royal blessings and support to effectively carry out the core mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service.
“The purpose of my visit is to introduce myself as the Area Controller of Seme Command and to equally seek your royal blessing and support to achieve the core mandate of the service. Our priority remains to generate revenue, facilitate trade, and suppress smuggling.
We in Customs believe that without due support and cooperation from traditional rulers, we cannot have effective performance of our functions as Customs officers,” he said.
Responding, the King Regent of Badagry Kingdom, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, described Comptroller Kaila as a son of the soil and assured him of the community’s support.
“We have listened to your request. Know that Badagry is a very peaceful town, and we will keep collaborating with you in safeguarding our borders and in promoting legitimate trade,” Ogunbiyi stated.
At the palace of the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori Kingdom, Oba Israel Okoya also pledged his support, assuring the Customs boss of the cooperation of residents in maintaining peace and lawful activities along the border.
“I welcome you to Badagry and be rest assured that I will always talk to my people whenever the need is required. In our town, our youth do not engage in illegalities as I have no other choice than to assist you in achieving the government mandate,” the monarch said.
Similarly, the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, HRM Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye, commended Comptroller Kaila, describing him as a seasoned and respected officer.
“I promise you that I will always assist you in my area for anything that you need. Our border here has been peaceful because our youth always listen to the elders, and I know with your presence here, things will change for the better,” the monarch added.
In furtherance of inter-agency cooperation, Comptroller Kaila also visited the Headquarters of the 653 Nigerian Air Force Base, Ahanve-Badagry, where the Commanding Officer, Group Captain Hungruy Medugu, reaffirmed the Air Force’s readiness to support the Customs Command.
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“Our collaboration has been key to various successes we have recorded in our area of responsibility. Your presence here strengthens existing bonds of inter-agency collaboration between both services, and we will not take it for granted,” Medugu said.
The Area Controller concluded the familiarisation tour with a visit to the Republic of Benin Police office, where he sought mutual cooperation in tackling trade barriers and ensuring seamless cross-border movement of goods and services.
The engagement, according to the command, reflects its commitment to strengthening border security, facilitating legitimate trade, and supporting national economic growth.
