The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has strengthened its operational collaboration with the Western Naval Command following a high level courtesy visit aimed at enhancing port security and trade facilitation.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, paid a visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, to reinforce inter-agency cooperation in line with the three policy thrusts of Consolidation, Collaboration and Innovation introduced by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
This was disclosed in a press release issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Isah Sulaiman, on 26 February 2026.
During the visit, Oshoba stated that his administration is focused on consolidating existing gains and improving the working relationship between the Apapa Command and the Nigerian Navy within the operational axis. He emphasised that modern border management demands close coordination among security and regulatory agencies, noting that while Customs is known for trade facilitation and revenue generation, it also performs critical security functions that require collaboration with the military.
On innovation, the CAC explained that adopting new approaches to improve efficiency includes strengthening inter-agency cooperation to achieve better results. He also commended the Navy for securing Nigeria’s waters, stressing that safe maritime channels are essential for vessels calling at the nation’s ports and for seamless cargo movement along the Apapa corridor.
In his response, Rear Admiral Mustapha acknowledged the longstanding partnership between both agencies and highlighted the importance of synergy in port security operations. He noted that without adequate security, sustainable development cannot be achieved.
The Naval Commander further commended the Nigeria Customs Service under Adeniyi’s leadership for blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets, adding that increased revenue would support infrastructure development and strengthen social safety nets across the country.
Mustapha assured the Command of improved and seamless cooperation in securing the maritime domain and supporting national economic growth.
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