Apapa Customs, Western Naval Command Strengthen Security Alliance to Safeguard Port Operations
Kathy Kyari
The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, has moved to reinforce maritime security and trade efficiency with a high-level visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha.
The courtesy visit, held on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, was aimed at deepening operational collaboration in line with the policy thrusts of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.
Addressing the naval leadership, Comptroller Oshoba stressed that his administration at Apapa Command is focused on strengthening existing partnerships while advancing the Service’s dual mandate of revenue generation and security enforcement.
“The CGC has Three (3) key policy thrusts. The first is consolidation. 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,” he said.
He noted that effective border management requires seamless inter-agency coordination, particularly between Customs and the military.
“While Customs is known for trade facilitation and revenue generation, we also perform critical security functions. To achieve this mandate, we must collaborate with the military, the mother of security,” Oshoba stated.
On innovation, he added: “Innovation is doing things differently to achieve better results and strengthening inter-agency cooperation is part of that approach.”
The CAC commended the Navy for its critical role in securing Nigeria’s maritime domain, emphasizing that safe waters remain foundational to port activities and international trade.
“No vessel can come into the country without safe waters. We commend you for keeping the maritime environment secure,” he said, while requesting sustained naval support along the Apapa port corridor to guarantee seamless cargo movement.
Responding, Rear Admiral Mustapha reaffirmed the strategic partnership between both agencies, describing port security as a shared responsibility that underpins national development.
“Port security is about inter-agency and coordination. Without security, there is no development,” he remarked.
He further applauded the Nigeria Customs Service under CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for its performance in revenue generation and reform implementation.
“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 stated.
Rear Admiral Mustapha assured the Apapa Area Command of enhanced cooperation in securing the maritime domain, reiterating the Navy’s readiness to support efforts aimed at strengthening national economic growth.
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