The Area Controller of the Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller J.A. Anani, has pledged to foster a stronger partnership with the media, emphasizing transparency, professionalism, and stakeholder engagement as key pillars of his administration.
Speaking during his maiden engagement with journalists at the Command headquarters in Lagos, Comptroller Anani described the media as a strategic partner in promoting accountability, shaping public understanding, and enhancing compliance within the maritime sector.
According to him, the press will be fully integrated into the activities of the Command, with regular access to information on policies, reforms, operations, and achievements.
“The media is not just a channel of communication but a critical stakeholder in our operations. Your reportage significantly influences public perception and contributes to the effectiveness of our mandate. We are committed to ensuring a timely, accurate, and transparent flow of information,” he stated.
The Customs chief disclosed that the Command would strengthen its relationship with journalists through training programmes, sensitization workshops, and other capacity-building initiatives aimed at enhancing understanding of Customs operations and improving the quality of maritime reportage.
While assuring journalists of open engagement, Anani also urged members of the press to uphold professionalism and ethical standards in reporting Customs activities, stressing that responsible journalism remains crucial in combating misinformation and sustaining public trust.
He reiterated the Command’s commitment to supporting the ongoing modernization agenda of the Nigeria Customs Service through technology-driven solutions designed to improve operational efficiency, trade facilitation, and service delivery at the port.
The Area Controller further stressed that his administration would ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, noting that adherence to regulations would remain central to the Command’s operations.
On revenue generation, Anani revealed that the Command is currently recording impressive performance, attributing the success to improved compliance, enhanced operational efficiency, and the dedication of officers and men of the Command.
“We intend to consolidate on these gains and surpass previous achievements recorded by the Command,” he said.
The Comptroller expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for entrusting him with the leadership of the strategic Command, commending the CGC’s reform-driven leadership and commitment to repositioning the Service for greater efficiency and global competitiveness.
Anani also announced that the Command’s Public Relations Unit would be specifically tasked with maintaining close engagement with the media by providing timely information, facilitating access to developments within the Command, and strengthening mutual understanding between Customs and journalists.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to collaboration with stakeholders, expressing confidence that stronger synergy with the media would support national economic growth, trade facilitation, and revenue generation.
The engagement forms part of the new Area Controller’s broader stakeholders’ consultation strategy since assuming office at one of Nigeria’s busiest and most strategic port commands.
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