Tunde Bakare
The Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has welcomed Comptroller Benedict Oramalugo, PhD, as its new Customs Area Controller, following the retirement of his predecessor. Comptroller Oramalugo, an accomplished and seasoned officer, officially assumed duty today, 11 February 2025, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to effective border management and trade facilitation.
The change of leadership was marked by a brief handing-over ceremony at the ECOWAS complex of the Seme-Krake Joint Border Post (JBP), attended by journalists. During the ceremony, Deputy Comptroller Enforcement, DC Istifanus D. Musa, who had been overseeing the Command following the retirement of the former Area Controller, welcomed Comptroller Oramalugo. He assured him of the commitment, support, and cooperation of all officers within the Command.
In his inaugural address, Comptroller Oramalugo expressed appreciation for the efforts of the Officers of the Command. He assured officers, stakeholders and the border community of his readiness to consolidate on the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of Customs for the seamless execution of the mandate of the Service. He pledged to maintain an open door policy and further urged the officers to enhance their capacities to move the Command and the Service to greater height.
The Area Controller expressed his gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adeawale Adeniyi MFR and his Management team for giving him the opportunity to serve in various capacities as Area Controller.
Prior to this appointment, Comptroller Oramalugo served as the Customs Area Controller of the Oyo/Osun Command. In December 2024, he received Strategic Community Engagement for the Year, Service Excellence Performance and was named outstanding Controller of the Year 2024 at the CGCs Award. His tenure in Oyo/Osun was marked by significant achievements in revenue generation and anti-smuggling operations