From May 30th to 31st, 2024, Comptroller Chika Dim ,Eastern Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service embarked on a significant working visit to key outstations in the Onne, Akwa-Ibom, and Calabar regions.
The visit aimed to enhance operations, ensure effective collaboration, and address key issues within the maritime domain.
The visit commenced at the Onne Outstation, where Comptroller CC DIM met with Officer to emphasize their crucial role in securing the maritime environment. He inspected the condition of the Customs Service gun boats, stressing the importance of proper maintenance for optimal performance.
He reminded the officers of the service’s standard operating procedures (SOP) and the critical need to adhere to them.
Following this, Comptroller CC DIM made a brief stop at the Customs Area Controller (CAC) Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, Area 2 Command Onne.
He was warmly received by Compt. Babandede. The two officials discussed how the Area 2 Command could support the Eastern Marine Command, reinforcing the collaboration between the commands.
Continuing his tour, Comptroller CC DIM visited the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Ibaka, Akwa Ibom State, where he met with Captain Uche Aneke.
They explored ways to enhance cooperation in the marine domain, commending the Navy’s efforts in securing the area and preventing illegal activities. The need for ongoing collaboration to maintain a safe and efficient maritime environment was underscored.
The final stop was a visit to Comptroller Gabriel Ogbonna at the Akwa Ibom FTZ Calabar Command. The discussions centered on how the Eastern Marine Command’s presence could be more impactful in the Calabar area.
The Comptrollers considered strategies to improve collaboration and operational efficiency in the region. Comptroller CC DIM also inspected the Calabar EMC Jetty, noting that the conditions were not conducive for Customs operations.
The visit concluded successfully, with Comptroller CC DIM achieving his objectives of meeting with officers, assessing the conditions of Customs gun boats, and fostering collaboration with other agencies.
The engagements and discussions with various stakeholders underscored the importance of working together to secure Nigeria’s maritime environment, aligning with the Comptroller General’s focus on collaboration.
