Nigeria Customs Service Apapa Command Strengthens Synergy with Nigerian Navy

The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, to deepen operational collaboration in line with the three policy thrusts of Consolidation, Collaboration and Innovation of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD.

Speaking during the visit, Comptroller Oshoba stated that the CGC’s reform agenda is anchored on three key pillars. “The CGC has three major policy thrusts. The first is consolidation. On assuming duty, I resolved to consolidate on the gains already achieved and further improve the existing relationship between Apapa Command and the Nigerian Navy within this axis,” he said.

On collaboration, the CAC noted that modern border management demands strong inter-agency cooperation. “While Customs is known for trade facilitation and revenue generation, we also perform critical security functions. To effectively discharge this mandate, we must collaborate with the military, the mother of security,” he added.

Addressing innovation, Comptroller Oshoba explained that innovation entails adopting new strategies to achieve better results. He emphasized that strengthening inter-agency cooperation remains a vital component of this approach.

The CAC commended the Nigerian Navy for its efforts in securing Nigeria’s territorial waters, stressing that maritime security is fundamental to trade facilitation. “No vessel can berth in the country without safe waters. We commend you for keeping the maritime environment secure,” he said, while also soliciting sustained support along the Apapa port corridor to ensure seamless cargo movement and enhanced operational efficiency.

In his response, Rear Admiral Mustapha acknowledged the longstanding partnership between both agencies, underscoring the importance of synergy in port operations. “Port security is about inter-agency coordination. Without security, there is no development,” he remarked.

The FOC further commended the Service under the leadership of CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for its impressive performance in revenue generation and anti-smuggling efforts. “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 stronger social safety nets for the country,” he stated.

Rear Admiral Mustapha assured the Command of improved and seamless cooperation in securing the maritime domain and supporting national economic growth.

Isah Sulaiman
Chief Superintendent of Customs
Public Relations Officer
For: Customs Area Controller
Apapa Area Command

26 February 2026