By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, has charged Officers and men of the Command to intensify revenue generation, strengthen anti-smuggling operations and uphold professionalism and discipline in the discharge of their duties.
Comptroller Oshoba gave the charge during the Command’s monthly parade held on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at the Comma…nd headquarters in Apapa, Lagos.
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In a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, Chief Superintendent of Customs Isah Sulaiman, the CAC emphasized the need for greater operational efficiency across terminals to block revenue leakages while ensuring seamless trade facilitation and timely cargo clearance.
He warned officers against unnecessary delays in cargo processing, stressing that the Command would not tolerate actions capable of hindering legitimate trade and port operations.
“Officers must protect the reputation of the Service. That is why any delay by any officer concerning any consignment will not be tolerated, even at the gates. If a consignment is duly exited, there should be no delay at the gates,” Oshoba stated.
The Area Controller also urged officers to remain accessible and professional in their dealings with stakeholders, noting that transparency and ethical conduct are critical to sustaining the image of the Service.
“You must make yourself accessible to our stakeholders and we must avoid actions capable of tarnishing the good image of the Service and the good work being done by the Comptroller-General of Customs and members of his management team. We should not be seen as slugs in the wheels of progress,” he added.
Oshoba further called for heightened vigilance against smuggling activities, particularly the movement of illicit drugs, contraband and other prohibited items through the ports.
He also warned officers against misconduct, indiscipline and improper dressing, stressing that professionalism must remain the hallmark of the Command.
The monthly parade featured the recognition of outstanding officers and units for exemplary service and dedication to duty.
Assistant Comptroller of Customs Ismail Mohammed emerged as the Most Outstanding Officer of the Month, while CSC Augustine Ondoma, ASCI Bukola Olaleye and IC Olalekan Salawu were recognised for professionalism, innovation and punctuality respectively.
Similarly, officers of APM Terminal received the Excellence Award on Enforcement, while officers of ECO SUPPORT Terminal received the Excellence Award on Revenue Generation.
According to the statement, Comptroller Oshoba said the award initiative was introduced to encourage hard work, excellence, professionalism and healthy competition among Officers and units of the Command.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to efficient service delivery, trade facilitation, revenue generation and sustained anti-smuggling operations in line with the policy direction of the Nigeria Customs Service.
