The Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has taken steps to further strengthen inter-agency collaboration with the Nigerian Navy as part of efforts to enhance port security, trade facilitation and revenue protection at the nation’s busiest seaport.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Apapa Area Command, Emmanuel Oshoba, on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, to deepen operational collaboration between both agencies.
Speaking during the visit, Comptroller Oshoba explained that the engagement aligns with the three key policy thrusts—Consolidation, Collaboration and Innovation—of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD. According to him, consolidation involves building on existing achievements and strengthening the cordial relationship between the Apapa Customs Command and the Navy within the port axis.
He noted that effective border and port management in modern times requires close cooperation among security agencies. While Customs is primarily known for trade facilitation and revenue generation, Oshoba said the Service also plays a vital security role that cannot be effectively discharged in isolation. He stressed that collaboration with the military, particularly the Navy, remains critical to achieving Customs’ mandate.
On innovation, the CAC described it as adopting new and better approaches to deliver results, adding that strengthening inter-agency cooperation is a key innovative strategy for improving operational efficiency and national security outcomes.
Comptroller Oshoba commended the Nigerian Navy for its role in securing Nigeria’s maritime domain, noting that safe and secure waters are fundamental to maritime trade. He said no vessel can access the country’s ports without adequate maritime security and solicited the Navy’s continued support along the Apapa port corridor to ensure seamless cargo movement and trade operations.
Responding, Rear Admiral Mustapha acknowledged the long-standing partnership between the Nigerian Navy and the Nigeria Customs Service, emphasizing that port security thrives on effective inter-agency coordination. According to him, security remains a prerequisite for development, as economic growth cannot be sustained in an unsafe environment.
The FOC also commended the Nigeria Customs Service under the leadership of the Comptroller-General for its improved performance, particularly in blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets. He noted that increased revenue generation translates to improved infrastructure development and stronger social safety nets for the country.
Rear Admiral Mustapha assured the Apapa Area Command of the Navy’s commitment to enhanced and seamless cooperation in securing the maritime domain and supporting national economic growth.
The visit underscores the shared resolve of both agencies to strengthen collaboration in safeguarding Nigeria’s ports, facilitating legitimate trade and protecting the nation’s economic interests.
