The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to building strategic partnerships with organizations, agencies, and professional associations that share its vision of enhancing national security, promoting legitimate trade, and driving economic growth.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) at the Command headquarters in Idiroko, Ogun State, Acting Customs Area Controller Comptroller Olukayode Oladapo Afeni emphasized the Service’s openness to collaborations that strengthen border management and support the Federal Government’s economic and security objectives. He assured MARAN of the Command’s readiness to work closely with the association.
Afeni stressed that effective border surveillance remains critical to safeguarding national security, particularly as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, and pledged continued vigilance against illegal migration and transborder crimes. He reiterated the Service’s dual mandate of facilitating lawful trade while cracking down on smugglers and importers of prohibited items.
“We will continue to promote lawful trade and business activities, but anyone involved in the importation of contraband goods, especially dangerous drugs capable of destroying lives and communities, will face the full weight of the law,” Afeni stated.
MARAN’s Secretary, Mr. Fabian Anawo, who led the delegation, described the association as a strong media partner of the NCS and other stakeholders in the maritime and blue economy sector. He highlighted MARAN’s platforms for dialogue, policy advocacy, and stakeholder engagement, including roundtable discussions, breakfast meetings, and its annual lecture series. The visit, he explained, was to introduce MARAN’s new executive leadership and explore areas of mutual cooperation.
The delegation also presented the Command with copies of MARAN’s recent publication, 50 Drivers of Nigeria’s Marine and Blue Economy, and encouraged Customs to leverage its platforms to strengthen communication with border communities and stakeholders.
Since assuming office on December 4, 2025, Comptroller Afeni has overseen intensified anti-smuggling operations, resulting in over 80 seizures of contraband goods—including artefacts, food products, petroleum products, and narcotics—with a combined Duty Paid Value (DPV) exceeding ₦11 billion. These efforts underscore the Command’s determination to combat smuggling, protect local industries, and enhance national security along the Idiroko border corridor.
Stakeholders at the meeting expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between Customs and the media will improve public awareness, foster compliance with trade regulations, and promote sustainable economic development.