Guarding Nigeria’s Gateway: Apapa Customs, Navy Forge Tighter Bond
Guarding Nigeria’s Gateway: Apapa Customs, Navy Forge Tighter Bond
By Success Okezie
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, visited Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of Western Naval Command, on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, to strengthen operational ties in line with the Comptroller-General of Customs, Barshir Adewale Adeniyi’ policy thrusts: Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation.
Speaking during the visit, Comptroller Oshoba outlined the Comptroller-General’s three policy thrusts, highlighting the need for consolidation, collaboration, and innovation. He emphasized that modern border management requires agencies to work together, citing Customs’ critical security role alongside trade facilitation and revenue generation. “To achieve this mandate, we must collaborate with the military, the mother of security,” he said, adding that innovation involves strengthening inter-agency cooperation for better results.
He expressed gratitude for the Navy’s efforts in securing Nigeria’s waters, stating, “No vessel can come into the country without safe waters. We commend you for keeping the maritime environment secure.” He also sought continued support along the Apapa port corridor to ensure smooth cargo movement.
In his response, Rear Admiral Mustapha acknowledged the longstanding partnership between both agencies, emphasizing: “Port security is about inter-agency and coordination. Without security, there is no development.”
He commended the Service under CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for its performance, noting: “The Customs has done exceptionally well in blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets. Continue what you are doing; with more revenue, there will be more infrastructure and social safety network for the country.”
The FOC assured the Command of improved and seamless cooperation in securing the maritime domain and supporting national economic growth.
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