By Helen Udo, Abuja -NIGERIA.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, paid a courtesy visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, on 25 February 2026 to strengthen operational collaboration between the two agencies.
The visit aligns with the Three Policy Thrusts Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
Comptroller Oshoba emphasized his commitment to consolidating existing gains and improving inter-agency relations within the Apapa operational axis.
Highlighting the importance of collaboration, the CAC noted that modern border management demands strong synergy among security agencies. While the Service is widely known for trade facilitation and revenue generation, it also plays a critical national security role that requires close cooperation with the military.
On innovation, he described it as adopting new and more effective approaches to achieve better outcomes, adding that strengthening inter-agency cooperation is central to delivering improved results in port operations and maritime security.
Comptroller Oshoba commended the Nigerian Navy for safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain, stressing that secure waters are fundamental to vessel traffic, trade facilitation, and economic stability.
He also sought continued naval support along the Apapa port corridor to ensure seamless cargo movement.
In his remarks, Rear Admiral Mustapha underscored the importance of coordination in port security, noting that sustainable development is impossible without a secure maritime environment.
He acknowledged the longstanding partnership between both agencies.
The FOC further commended the Nigeria Customs Service under CGC Adeniyi for blocking revenue leakages and exceeding national revenue targets.
He assured the Apapa Area Command of sustained and seamless cooperation in protecting the maritime domain and supporting Nigeria’s economic growth.
