By Seun Ibiyemi
The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Oyo/Osun Area Command, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Wale Adewole, on Monday paid courtesy visits to the palaces of the Ooni of Ife, Ogunsua of Modakeke, and Ataoja of Osogbo, reinforcing efforts to strengthen collaboration with communities and traditional institutions in executing the Nigeria Customs Service’s mandate.
At the Ooni of Ife’s palace, DC Adewole expressed gratitude for the warm reception and highlighted the palace’s significance as a symbol of Yoruba cultural heritage. Customs intercept N1bn cocaine, unveils digital reform
He called on the monarch and community to support initiatives aimed at curbing smuggling, promoting legitimate trade, and ensuring national economic security.
The Ooni of Ife praised the Customs Service for its role in trade facilitation and border protection and pledged ongoing support for the Command.
During his visit to the Ogunsua of Modakeke, DC Adewole acknowledged the monarch’s hospitality and stressed the importance of community participation, particularly in intelligence sharing, to enhance the Service’s operational effectiveness.
The Ogunsua commended the Service’s contribution to national development and assured cooperation from his people.
At the Ataoja of Osogbo’s palace, the Acting Customs Area Controller reiterated the Command’s commitment to fostering strong relationships with host communities and traditional rulers. Customs begins sensitisation on full automation of licences, permits processes
He noted that collaboration is key to promoting lawful trade and preventing illicit activities. The Ataoja welcomed the delegation and commended the Service for protecting the nation’s economy, promising continued palace support.
DC Adewole said the visits form part of the Command’s broader strategy to strengthen stakeholder engagement, particularly with traditional institutions, whose influence is crucial in enforcing Customs laws and supporting national security objectives.
The Oyo/Osun Area Command reaffirmed its commitment to revenue generation, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling operations while continuing to build partnerships with key stakeholders to ensure effective service delivery.
