AWAEMAP Celebrates Comptroller Odusanya’s Exemplary Service at Farewell Dinner

Kathy Kyari

The Association of West African Exporters and Maritime Professionals (AWAEMAP) on Wednesday, hosted a Farewell Dinner in honour of the former Customs Area Controller of Lilypond Export Command, Comptroller Ajibola Odusanya (Rtd.), celebrating his impactful tenure marked by partnership, efficiency, and unwavering support to the export community.

Held at the Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, the event brought together top officials of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), exporters, maritime professionals, and trade stakeholders in an evening filled with appreciation, reflection, and camaraderie.

In his goodwill message, the current Customs Area Controller of Lilypond Export Command, Comptroller S. O. Ariyibi, commended AWAEMAP for its continued collaboration with the NCS and reaffirmed his readiness to sustain the momentum of trade facilitation.

He assured exporters of his full cooperation and commitment to resolving challenges affecting export operations.

“Anything that hinders export is what the government does not want, and I will do all within my capacity to facilitate and support exporters,” he said.

In his remarks, Comptroller A. Y. Odusanya (Rtd.) expressed heartfelt appreciation to AWAEMAP for its support throughout his tenure, describing the association as a vital partner in advancing Nigeria’s export trade.

He acknowledged the collective effort that shaped Lilypond Export Command into what he described as a “one-stop export command,” a vision first initiated by the pioneer Controller, Comptroller Mohammed Babandede.

“We built on that foundation to create a command that truly serves exporters efficiently,” he added, noting that the legacy now continues under his successor.

Adding his voice, Mr. Adewunmi Augustine, Area Commander of the NDLEA Lilypond Command, praised the synergy between security agencies and the export community, emphasizing its importance in strengthening Nigeria’s trade ecosystem.

AWAEMAP President, Hon. Olumekun Olubunmi, in his remarks, highlighted the association’s growth and impact within the export sector, describing Comptroller Odusanya as a dependable ally who prioritized exporters’ needs and promoted operational harmony.

Similarly, the Chairman of AWAEMAP’s Board of Trustees, Alh. Nofiu Inaolaji, lauded the retired Comptroller’s leadership, describing his tenure as “one marked by cooperation, innovation, and tangible achievements in export facilitation.”

Closing the ceremony, AWAEMAP’s Vice President, Alh. Moruf Raheem, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to Comptroller Odusanya, customs officers, and members of the association. He reaffirmed AWAEMAP’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the new CAC to ensure sustained progress in Nigeria’s export operations.

The evening concluded with moments of celebration, goodwill exchanges, and renewed resolve among stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s position in global trade.