The Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, has directed officers and men of the Command to intensify operational interventions across terminals to curb revenue leakages while ensuring seamless trade facilitation and faster cargo clearance at the nation’s busiest port.
Speaking during the Command’s monthly parade held at the Apapa Command headquarters in Lagos on May 12, 2026 , Oshoba stressed that officers must eliminate delays in cargo processing and support efforts aimed at improving port efficiency and revenue collection.
“Officers must protect the reputation of the Service. That is why any delay by any officer concerning any consignment will not be tolerated. Even at the gates. If a consignment is duly exited, there should be no delay at the gates,” he said.
The Comptroller also urged officers to maintain professionalism and cordial relations with stakeholders, warning against actions capable of tarnishing the image of the Service.
According to him, officers must remain accessible to port users and avoid becoming obstacles to trade facilitation reforms being championed by the Comptroller-General of Customs and his management team.
“You must make yourself accessible to our stakeholders and we must avoid actions capable of tarnishing the good image of the Service and the good work being done by the CGC and members of his management. We should not be seen as slugs in the wheels of progress,” Oshoba added.
He further called for heightened vigilance against smuggling activities, especially the movement of illicit drugs and prohibited items through the ports. As part of efforts to encourage excellence and professionalism, the Comptroller Oshoba recognised outstanding officers and units for exceptional performance during the month.
Assistant Comptroller of Customs Ismail Mohammed emerged as the Most Outstanding Officer of the Month, while CSC Augustine Ondoma, ASCI Bukola Olaleye and IC Olalekan Salawu were honoured for professionalism, innovation and punctuality respectively.
Similarly, officers of APM Terminal received the Excellence Award on Enforcement, while officers of ECO SUPPORT Terminal were recognised for excellence in revenue generation. Oshoba explained that the awards were introduced to promote hard work, discipline, professionalism and healthy competition among officers and units of the Command.
