The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, has intensified its operational synergy with the Nigerian Navy as part of efforts to strengthen maritime security and enhance trade facilitation along Nigeria’s busiest port corridor.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Apapa 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, in Lagos to consolidate inter-agency collaboration.
The visit aligns with the three-point policy thrust of Consolidation, Collaboration and Innovation championed by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
Speaking during the engagement, Comptroller Oshoba emphasized the importance of sustaining and improving existing operational relationships. He noted that upon assuming office, he resolved to consolidate on previous gains and further strengthen cooperation between the Apapa Command and the Nigerian Navy within the Lagos maritime axis.
Highlighting collaboration as a cornerstone of modern border management, the CAC stressed that while the Service is widely recognized for trade facilitation and revenue generation, it also plays a critical national security role that requires close coordination with the military. He described enhanced inter-agency cooperation as a practical demonstration of innovation — adopting improved approaches to achieve better operational outcomes.
Comptroller Oshoba commended the Navy for its sustained efforts in securing Nigeria’s territorial waters, noting that safe and secure waterways remain fundamental to uninterrupted vessel traffic and port operations. He also solicited continued naval support in maintaining security along the Apapa port corridor to guarantee seamless cargo movement.
In his response, Rear Admiral Mustapha reaffirmed the longstanding partnership between both agencies, describing port security as a shared responsibility anchored on effective coordination. He observed that national development is intrinsically linked to security stability within the maritime domain.
The FOC further applauded the Nigeria Customs Service under CGC Adeniyi’s leadership for its strides in blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets. He encouraged the Service to sustain its performance, noting that improved revenue generation directly contributes to infrastructure development and strengthened social safety frameworks. Rear Admiral Mustapha assured the Apapa Command of the Western Naval Command’s continued cooperation in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime environment and supporting national economic growth.
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