By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Apapa Area Command, 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, as part of efforts to strengthen operational collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian Navy.
The visit aligns with the three policy thrusts of Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation introduced by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD.
Speaking during the visit, Comptroller Oshoba explained that upon assuming office, he resolved to consolidate on the achievements already recorded at the Apapa Command, particularly in fostering a stronger working relationship with the Nigerian Navy.
He emphasized that modern border management demands synergy among security agencies. While Customs is widely known for trade facilitation and revenue generation, he noted that the Service also plays critical security roles that require close cooperation with the military.
According to him, innovation involves adopting new strategies to achieve improved outcomes, adding that strengthening inter-agency cooperation forms a key part of that approach.
The CAC commended the Nigerian Navy for ensuring the safety of Nigeria’s territorial waters, stressing that no vessel can berth at the nation’s ports without a secure maritime environment. He also sought sustained support along the Apapa Port corridor to guarantee seamless cargo movement and enhanced port operations.
In his response, Rear Admiral Mustapha reaffirmed the longstanding partnership between the two agencies, describing port security as a function of effective inter-agency coordination. He stressed that development cannot thrive in the absence of security.
The FOC also praised the Nigeria Customs Service under the leadership of CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for its performance in blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets. He noted that increased revenue would translate into improved infrastructure and strengthened social safety nets for the country.
Rear Admiral Mustapha assured the Apapa Area Command of continued and enhanced cooperation in securing the maritime domain and supporting national economic growth.
