The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Command, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Jacob Onele, has assessed the operational readiness of officers and men under his leadership, reaffirming his administration’s zero-tolerance stance on indiscipline and unprofessional conduct.
Onele gave the charge on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, during a familiarisation tour of strategic operational units at the airport, where he evaluated officers’ performance, reviewed their welfare and listened to challenges affecting service delivery.
Addressing officers of the Anti-Money Laundering Unit and Baggage Operations, the acting controller commended their performance but stressed the need to sustain professionalism, vigilance and discipline in the discharge of their duties.
He rated the officers’ performance nine out of 10, noting that although perfection was difficult to achieve, discipline remained non-negotiable under his leadership.
“From the day I took over as Acting Customs Area Controller, I told them discipline is non-negotiable, and so far, so good, they have lived up to that expectation,” Onele said.
He identified proactive surveillance and effective communication with sister security agencies as critical tools for gathering credible intelligence and coordinating enforcement operations to secure the nation’s borders through the airport.
The acting controller also urged officers to maintain courteous and professional conduct when dealing with passengers, stressing that their appearance and behaviour influence the public’s perception of Nigeria.
“You are the gateway to the country. You must dress neatly and project Nigeria the right way. Do not engage in any inappropriate act, as your conduct defines how the country is perceived,” he warned.
Onele further highlighted the effectiveness of the Simplified Customs Advance Declaration System (SCADS) in facilitating faster clearance of eligible items, urging officers to deploy available procedures and systems to improve operational efficiency.
The familiarisation tour also covered the VVIP Fast-Track Section, Currency Declaration Unit and Terminal 2 Departure Hall, where Onele engaged representatives of sister security agencies.
The visit signals the commencement of his administration’s focus on operational efficiency, personnel discipline and stronger inter-agency collaboration in strengthening airport security and improving Customs service delivery.
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