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NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE SEME AREA COMMAND STRENGTHENS STAKEHOLDER RELATIONS TO ENHANCE SECURITY, TRADE FACILITATION AND REVENUE GENERATION
In a strategic move to strengthen collaboration and enhance operational efficiency, the Customs Area Controller of Seme Area Command, Comptroller Benedict Oramalugo, PhD, has embarked on a series of courtesy visits to key traditional leaders and security agencies in Badagry, Lagos State.
The visit, which took place between February 19 and 20, 2025, emphasized the Command's unwavering commitment to promoting strong relationships with stakeholders, reinforcing security measures, and promoting seamless trade facilitation in the region.
During the engagement, Comptroller Oramalugo paid homage to the Oba Akran of Badagry and the Oba of Iberoko, acknowledging the crucial role of traditional institutions in maintaining peace and stability. He reiterated the importance of synergy between Customs and local authorities in ensuring a secure and conducive environment for legitimate trade.
As part of efforts to enhance inter-agency cooperation, the Customs boss also visited top security formations, including the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base, Nigerian Army 243 RECCE Battalion Regiment, the Nigerian Police Division, Badagry, and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Discussions during these engagements centered on strengthening intelligence-sharing, improving border security, and fostering a more coordinated approach to tackling smuggling and other transborder crimes. Comptroller Oramalugo emphasized that effective stakeholder collaboration remains a cornerstone of the Command's strategy to optimize revenue generation, enhance border security, and contribute to national development.
"Our mission at Seme Area Command goes beyond revenue collection; it extends to ensuring national security and fostering economic growth," Comptroller Oramalugo said. "Strong partnerships with traditional institutions and security agencies are vital in achieving these objectives. When I was posted to the Seme Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service, the CGC told me to meet all sister agencies and seek synergy with them in order to combat smuggling here."
Comptroller Oramalugo sought collaboration from other security agencies, emphasizing that they are all working together for the Nigeria State. "I need your collaboration here in the Seme command to succeed. I want your assurance that when we are overwhelmed with smugglers, you will always come to assist us to combat them. We are all working for the Nigeria State," he stated.
This move is part of the Command's strategy to optimize revenue generation, enhance border security, and contribute to national development. By strengthening stakeholder relations, the Seme Area Command aims to promote seamless trade facilitation, ensure a secure and conducive environment for legitimate trade, and ultimately drive economic growth and development in the region.
The success of this initiative will depend on the collective efforts of all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, security agencies, and the business community. As the Seme Area Command continues to work towards achieving its objectives, it is clear that the Command's commitment to strengthening stakeholder relations will play a critical role in driving success.
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