The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, has strengthened its working relationship with the Nigerian Navy’s Western Naval Command as part of efforts to enhance maritime security and improve operational efficiency at the nation’s busiest port corridor.
This renewed collaboration aligns with the policy priorities of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, which focus on consolidation, collaboration, and innovation across the Service’s operations.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Apapa Command, Emmanuel Oshoba, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Western Naval Command, Abubakar Mustapha.
Speaking during the meeting, Oshoba explained that since assuming leadership of the command, he has prioritised strengthening the cooperation that already exists between the Apapa Command and the Nigerian Navy in the region. According to him, the objective is to build on previous achievements while deepening coordination between both agencies in order to enhance security and operational effectiveness within the maritime environment.
He emphasised that modern border management requires strong cooperation among relevant agencies, particularly those responsible for trade regulation and national security. Oshoba noted that while the Nigeria Customs Service is widely recognised for its role in facilitating legitimate trade and generating government revenue, the agency also performs critical security responsibilities at the nation’s borders and ports.
According to him, fulfilling this responsibility requires sustained collaboration with the military and other security institutions. He described the military as the backbone of national security, stressing that Customs must continue to work closely with it to effectively protect Nigeria’s borders and maritime domain.
Oshoba further explained that innovation—one of the core pillars of the current Customs leadership—involves adopting new strategies and improving existing systems to deliver better results. He added that strengthening partnerships with other security agencies, including the Navy, forms an essential part of this approach.
The CAC also commended the Nigerian Navy for its continuous efforts in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and maintaining a secure maritime environment. He noted that safe navigation and maritime security are critical to the smooth operation of port activities, particularly at Apapa Port, which serves as a major gateway for international trade.
According to him, vessels cannot safely enter the country without adequate security along the waterways. He therefore praised the Navy’s role in protecting the maritime domain and ensuring that shipping activities are carried out without disruption.
Oshoba also appealed for sustained support from the Western Naval Command in maintaining security along the Apapa Port corridor. He explained that enhanced cooperation would help facilitate smoother cargo movement, reduce operational challenges, and further strengthen the efficiency of port operations.
In his response, Mustapha acknowledged the long-standing partnership between the Nigerian Navy and the Nigeria Customs Service, describing it as essential for maintaining security within the maritime sector.
He stressed that effective port security can only be achieved through strong inter-agency cooperation and coordination. According to him, security forms the foundation for economic growth and national development, noting that sustainable development cannot take place without a stable and secure environment.
The naval chief also commended the Nigeria Customs Service under the leadership of Adeniyi for its performance in recent years, particularly in blocking revenue leakages and surpassing government revenue targets.
He encouraged the Service to sustain its efforts, adding that increased revenue generation would enable the government to invest more in infrastructure development and strengthen social support systems for citizens.
Mustapha assured the Apapa Area Command of the Navy’s continued support and pledged deeper cooperation in protecting the maritime domain, maintaining port security, and contributing to Nigeria’s economic progress.
