Ogun 1 Customs: DC Afeni Partners Traditional Rulers to Boost Anti-Smuggling Efforts

The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun I Command, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni has forged a partnership with traditional rulers within his area of responsibility to boost anti-smuggling efforts and enhance community relations.

DC Afeni successfully secured the royal leaders’ support on anti-smuggling drive, during a strategic visit to Onipokia of Ipokia Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Yisa Sola Adeniyi Olaniyan and other respectable leaders on Tuesday, 3 February 2026.

Speaking during the visit, the acting Controller expressed appreciation to the monarchs for their warm reception and sustained role in maintaining peace and stability within the kingdom.

In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Chado Zakari, DC Afeni described Ipokia as a home, emphasising the importance of strengthening collaboration with traditional institutions in line with the Comptroller-General of Customs’ policy thrust on synergy and community engagement.

The Acting Controller noted that traditional rulers remain critical partners in the suppression of smuggling and the enhancement of national security.

He reiterated the core mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service, which include trade facilitation, revenue generation, and anti-smuggling operations, while urging the traditional council to continue sensitizing members of the public on the dangers of illicit trade and its negative impact on national security and economic growth.

Comptroller Afeni further highlighted the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives introduced by the Comptroller-General of Customs, explaining that such programmes are aimed at discouraging smuggling and promoting sustainable development within host communities.

In response, His Royal Majesty, Oba Yisa Sola Adeniyi Olaniyan, commended the Comptroller-General’s transformative leadership and commitment to global best practices, while welcoming Comptroller Afeni as a “son of the soil” and pledging the unwavering support and cooperation of the Ipokia Kingdom.

The monarch encouraged the Acting Controller to carry out his responsibilities “without fear or favour,” reaffirming that Ipokia remains a peaceful and law-abiding community committed to supporting the Federal Government’s economic objectives.