The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tincan Island Port Command (TCIPC), and the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS), Beecroft, have renewed their commitment to securing Nigeria’s maritime borders and facilitating smooth trade operations.
This was highlighted during a visit on last week by the newly-appointed Commander of NNS Beecroft, Commodore Paul Nimmyel, to the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Frank Onyeka at the TCIPC headquarters.
While welcoming the Navy Commander, Comptroller Onyeka emphasised the importance of inter-agency collaboration in ensuring national security does not take a backseat to trade facilitation.
“Beyond revenue generation, combatting smuggling, and seamlessly facilitating trade, we put national interest into perspective equally. Because there is a thin line between National Interest and trade facilitation. I have always said that we’re going to facilitate trade, but we’re not going to de-emphasise national interest,, and that’s where you people come in.”
The CAC reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to working closely with the Nigerian Navy to ensure secure waterways and a safer trade environment.
He stated, “We will always open our doors to the Nigerian Navy. If there’s anything you want us to do within the ambit of the law, you can always count on the Nigeria Customs Service.”
Commodore Nimmyel, who recently assumed command of NNS Beecroft, reiterated his mandate to ensure security within Nigeria’s critical maritime corridors, particularly around Lagos, a key commercial hub.
“My mandate is to ensure peace and security in this area for economic activities to thrive. Our partners coming from across the seas should experience seamless trade, free from security threats. He noted that any form of assistance that the base can provide to make your work easier we are just around the corner”.
He further commended the NCS for its ongoing support in tackling smuggling and requested that the cooperation between the agencies be sustained and improved upon.
Meanwhile, the TCIPC also hosted a special Ramadan dinner to foster harmonious coexistence among stakeholders. Comptroller Onyeka highlighted Ramadan as a period of reflection, self-discipline and compassion, stressing the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding.
The dinner brought together key players in the maritime sector, reinforcing the command’s commitment to cooperation and inclusivity.
