The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Imo/Abia Area Command, has commenced steps to reopen its long-abandoned Umuahia out-station in Abia State as part of efforts to strengthen operational efficiency and enhance inter-agency collaboration.
The move follows a two-day official visit by the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Blessing Ihenacho, to formations under the Command.
According to a Press Release issued on Friday, 16 January 2026, by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Customs Nnamdi Aligwekwe, the visit, which held between Tuesday, 13 January and Wednesday, 14 January 2026, featured inspections of command facilities, bonded terminals, excise factories, and courtesy visits to sister security agencies in Imo and Abia States.
A key highlight of the visit was the inspection of the Umuahia out-station, which had remained inactive for over three years due to certain constraints. The facility, including office structures and residential barracks, was found to be in a state of disrepair and unfit for operational use.
Comptroller Ihenacho however, directed immediate environmental clean-up of the premises as a short-term measure pending formal approval from the Service Headquarters for comprehensive rehabilitation.
The Command has also initiated the rehabilitation of essential facilities, including repairs to the borehole and renovation of six residential flats to accommodate officers, thereby facilitating a gradual return to full operations.
CAC noted that the reopening of the out-station would strategically position Customs officers closer to bonded terminals and excise factories within Abia State, enhancing regulatory oversight, compliance, and revenue generation.
Beyond infrastructure, the visit also underscored the Command’s commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration. Comptroller Ihenacho engaged with heads of relevant security agencies, emphasising the importance of sustained cooperation in addressing shared operational challenges.
She further held interactive sessions with terminal operators and excise traders, urging strict adherence to extant regulations while reaffirming the Service’s commitment to trade facilitation and stakeholder support.
Stakeholders, in their responses, commended the initiative and pledged continued compliance and cooperation with the Service to promote economic growth and national development.
