By Seun Ibiyemi
The Nigeria Customs Service, Apapa Area Command, has reinforced its partnership with the Nigerian Navy to enhance maritime security and ensure seamless cargo movement along the Apapa port corridor.
Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Apapa, paid a courtesy visit on Wednesday, to Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, in a move aimed at deepening operational collaboration under the three policy thrusts of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi: Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation.
Speaking during the visit, Oshoba said, “The CGC has three key policy thrusts.Customs intercept N1bn cocaine, unveils digital reform
Consolidation involves building on the gains already achieved and improving the relationship between Apapa Command and the Nigerian Navy. Collaboration is essential because modern border management requires agencies to work together.
Innovation is about doing things differently to achieve better results, and strengthening inter-agency cooperation is part of that approach.”
He commended the Navy for securing Nigeria’s waters, stating: “No vessel can come into the country without safe waters. We commend you for keeping the maritime environment secure,” and solicited continued support along the Apapa port corridor to facilitate trade.Oyo/Osun Customs strengthens inter-agency ties with DSS, NDLEA, NAFDAC
In response, Rear Admiral Mustapha acknowledged the longstanding partnership between the agencies, emphasizing that “Port security is about inter-agency coordination. Without security, there is no development.”
He also lauded the Customs Service under CGC Adeniyi for its performance in blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets, noting that “with more revenue, there will be more infrastructure and social safety networks for the country.”
The FOC assured the Apapa Command of improved and seamless cooperation in securing the maritime domain while supporting national economic growth.
The visit underscores a commitment to inter-agency collaboration as a cornerstone for both trade facilitation and national security in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
