Apapa Customs Deepens Operational Synergy with Nigerian Navy 

The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Apapa Area 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, to deepen operational collaboration.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Isah Suleiman on Thursday.

According to the statement, the engagement is in line with the policy thrusts of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR which includes Consolidation, Collaboration and Innovation.

Speaking during his visit, the Area Controller noted that Apapa Command’s activities aligned with these policy thrusts, building on gains and strengthening ties with Nigerian Navy in the area.

He said, “On assuming duty, I resolved to consolidate on the gains already achieved and improve the existing relationship between Apapa Command and the Nigerian Navy within this axis”.

Comptroller Oshoba stressed that modern border management requires agencies to work in tandem, noting “While Customs is known for trade facilitation and revenue generation, we also perform critical security functions and to achieve this mandate, we must collaborate with the military, the mother of security”.

On innovation, the Area Controller said technology has to do with doing things differently to achieve better results and strengthening inter-agency cooperation is part of that approach.

He appreciated the Navy for securing Nigeria waters, emphasising: “No vessel can come into the country without safe waters. We commend you for keeping the maritime environment secure”.

Comptroller Oshoba also solicited sustained support along the Apapa port corridor to ensure seamless cargo movement.

In his response, Rear Admiral Mustapha acknowledged the longstanding partnership between both agencies, emphasising essence of inter-agency and coordination in tackling port security. “Without security, there is no development”.

He commended the Service under CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for its performance, noting: “The Customs has done exceptionally well in blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets. Continue what you are doing; with more revenue, there will be more infrastructure and social safety network for the country.”

The FOC assured the Command of improved and seamless cooperation in securing the maritime domain and supporting national economic growth.