In a move to deepen inter-agency collaboration, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, paid a courtesy visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha. The meeting underscored a shared commitment to theThree policy thrusts guiding the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi: Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation.

• Consolidation: Comptroller Oshoba emphasised the need to build on existing gains and strengthen the relationship between the Apapa Command and the Nigerian Navy to improve border management along the Apapa axis.
• Collaboration: The CAC highlighted that effective border management requires tight inter-agency coordination. While Customs is known for trade facilitation and revenue collection, security remains a core function that benefits from military partnership.
• Innovation: Oshoba spoke about innovating processes to achieve better outcomes and intensifying inter-agency cooperation as a core part of this approach.
• Appreciation for security: He lauded the Nigerian Navy for securing Nigeria’s waters, noting that safe waters are essential for legitimate trade and the movement of vessels.
• Request for ongoing support: Oshoba solicited continued, robust support to ensure seamless cargo movement along the Apapa port corridor.

In response, Rear Admiral Mustapha affirmed the long-standing partnership between the two agencies and stressed that port security hinges on inter-agency coordination. He commended the Customs Service for its performance, particularly in hindering revenue leakages and contributing to meeting national revenue targets. Mustapha expressed confidence in enhanced cooperation to secure the maritime domain and support the country’s economic growth.

The FOC’s remarks reinforced a shared belief: secure seas enable development, and sustained collaboration between the Customs and the Navy is vital for both national security and economic prosperity. The visit concluded with a mutual commitment to stronger cooperation and more streamlined processes to bolster security and facilitate legitimate trade at the nation’s premier port corridor.

The piece includes visuals and references to related partners and initiatives, such as Sifax Group and Bomara Investment, highlighting the broader ecosystem around Apapa’s port operations.