By Sandra Chukwunyere
The Zonal Coordinator of Nigeria Customs Service Zone A, Assistant Comptroller-General Charles Orbih, has lauded the officers and men of the Western Marine Command for their exceptional contributions to national security and economic protection during a working visit to the Command.
In his welcome address, ACG Orbih praised the Command’s pivotal role in advancing the goals of the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly in securing Nigeria’s maritime borders against smuggling and other transnational crimes. He highlighted the Command’s impressive seizures in recent weeks, with contraband items worth over ₦352 million in Duty Paid Value, noting their impact in protecting local industries and safeguarding public health.
“The seizures you made go beyond mere numbers,” Orbih stated. “They tell the story of officers who understand that every intercepted contraband item protects Nigeria’s economy and its people.”
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Reflecting on the Service’s stellar performance in the first quarter of 2025, the Zonal Coordinator revealed that NCS collected a record-breaking ₦1.75 trillion in revenue, with Zone A contributing nearly 80% of the total. He attributed this achievement to increased operational efficiency and strategic reforms under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR.
Key reforms highlighted include the introduction of the Advance Ruling System, the launch of the Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) program, and the deployment of the indigenous Unified Customs Management System known as the B’Odogwu Platform, which is enhancing cargo clearance and tracking capabilities across commands.
“From PTML to other commands, the B’Odogwu system is transforming how we clear goods and monitor compliance,” he said. “This is the kind of innovation driving our mandate forward.”
ACG Orbih also commended the Western Marine Command for its infrastructural improvements, including the construction of a befitting quarter guard and the removal of shanties around the Command’s vicinity, actions which he said demonstrate discipline and commitment to operational excellence.
Reinforcing the urgent need for sustained vigilance, the coordinator reminded officers of the evolving security threats facing the nation and urged continued collaboration with sister agencies like the Navy, NDLEA, Marine Police, and Immigration.
“Our nation is facing complex threats, and your work here is not just important—it is critical to our national survival,” he said. “We must remain several steps ahead of those who want to undermine Nigeria’s economic integrity.”
He further emphasized the role of the public in national security, calling on citizens to report any suspicious activities related to smuggling or illegal trade within the waterways.
The visit forms part of the Zonal Coordinator’s ongoing tour to reinforce the Service’s three strategic pillars: Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation, and to rally frontline commands in upholding their mandate with renewed vigor and integrity.
The Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi appreciated the ACG for his visit to the Command and for his words of encouragement to him and his officers. The Comptroller assured the ACG that officers and men of the Command will continue to make the service proud.
