Uche Cecil Izuora
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigerian Navy are consolidating their operations and cooperation to strengthen security in the Maritime sector.
This cooperation was established when Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, Customs Area Controller of Apapa Command, visited Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, on 25 February 2026 to strengthen operational ties.
The meeting aligns with Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi’s three policy pillars: consolidation, collaboration, and innovation.
Oshoba emphasized consolidating past gains and improving Navy relations for modern border management. He highlighted Customs’ dual role in trade facilitation and security, stating collaboration with the military is essential. Innovation, he added, means smarter inter-agency work for better results.
The CAC thanked the Navy for securing Nigeria’s waters, noting no vessel can enter safely without their efforts. He sought continued support along the Apapa corridor for smooth cargo movement.
Rear Admiral Mustapha praised the longstanding partnership, stressing inter-agency coordination for port security. Without security, he said, development stalls. He commended NCS under Adeniyi for blocking revenue leakages and exceeding targets, linking it to infrastructure and social benefits.
The FOC pledged enhanced cooperation to secure the maritime domain and boost economic growth.