APAPA CUSTOMS, NAVY DEEPEN OPERATIONAL COLLABORATION

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has strengthened its partnership with the Nigerian Navy following a courtesy visit by the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha.

The visit, held on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, was aimed at enhancing inter-agency cooperation in line with the three policy thrusts — Consolidation, Collaboration and Innovation, of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

Speaking during the meeting, Oshoba said his administration at Apapa Command would consolidate on existing gains and further strengthen the working relationship with the Navy within the operational axis. He emphasised that effective modern border management requires synergy among security and revenue-generating agencies.

“While Customs is known for trade facilitation and revenue generation, we also perform critical security functions. To achieve this mandate, we must collaborate with the military, the mother of security,” he said.

On innovation, the CAC noted that adopting new approaches to inter-agency cooperation would enhance operational efficiency and deliver better results. He also commended the Navy for maintaining security within Nigeria’s maritime domain, stressing that safe waters are critical for vessel movement and seamless port operations.

Responding, Rear Admiral Mustapha reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to sustaining its partnership with Customs, noting that port security depends heavily on coordination among relevant agencies.

“Without security, there is no development,” he stated.

The FOC further commended the Customs Service under CGC Adeniyi for blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets, adding that improved revenue generation would translate into enhanced infrastructure and social services.

He assured the Apapa Command of continued and seamless cooperation in securing the maritime environment and supporting national economic growth.