ACG Orbih Applauds Western Marine Command’s Anti-Smuggling Efforts, Infrastructure Upgrades
Kathy Kyari
The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has received high praise from the Zonal Coordinator of Zone A, Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Charles Orbih, for its significant contributions to national security and economic protection. The commendation came during ACG Orbih’s recent working visit to the Command.
During the visit, ACG Orbih acknowledged the Command’s critical role in strengthening the Service’s mission, particularly in curbing smuggling and securing Nigeria’s maritime borders against transnational crimes.
He noted that the Command’s recent seizures, with a Duty Paid Value (DPV) of over ₦352 million, were a testament to the officers' dedication and effectiveness.
“The seizures you made go beyond mere numbers,” Orbih said. “They tell the story of officers who understand that every intercepted contraband item protects Nigeria’s economy and its people.”
Speaking on the broader performance of the Service, the Zonal Coordinator highlighted the NCS’s revenue collection for the first quarter of 2025, which reached a record ₦1.75 trillion.
He noted that Zone A was responsible for nearly 80% of this amount, attributing the success to strategic reforms and improved operational efficiency spearheaded by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR.
Orbih referenced several key reforms driving the Service's success, including the implementation of the Advance Ruling System, the launch of the Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) program, and the rollout of the indigenous Unified Customs Management System, also known as the B’Odogwu Platform.
“From PTML to other commands, the B’Odogwu system is transforming how we clear goods and monitor compliance,” he stated. “This is the kind of innovation driving our mandate forward.”
He also commended the Command’s infrastructural upgrades, including the construction of a modern quarter guard and the removal of shanties around the premises, initiatives he described as signs of professionalism and commitment to excellence.
ACG Orbih further stressed the importance of sustained vigilance amid growing security challenges across the nation. He encouraged officers to continue fostering strong inter-agency collaborations with the Navy, NDLEA, Marine Police, and Immigration Service.
“Our nation is facing complex threats, and your work here is not just important. It is critical to our national survival,” he said. “We must remain several steps ahead of those who want to undermine Nigeria’s economic integrity.”
He also called on members of the public to play their part by reporting suspicious activities related to smuggling or illicit trade along Nigeria’s waterways.
The visit formed part of ACG Orbih’s ongoing tour of Zone A commands to reinforce the Service’s strategic focus on Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation, while motivating frontline officers to uphold their duties with renewed commitment and integrity.
In his response, the Customs Area Controller of the Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, expressed appreciation to the ACG for his visit and encouraging remarks.
He assured the Coordinator that officers and men of the Command would continue to deliver results that reflect the values and goals of the Nigeria Customs Service.
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