Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Apapa Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and its Comptroller, Babatunde Olomu, emerged as standout performers at the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC) Awards Night held on November 29, 2024, in Abuja.
The command received three prestigious awards, including “Best Command of the Year” and “Best Command in Revenue Collection,” while Comptroller Olomu was named “Best Controller of the Year” for his exceptional leadership and groundbreaking achievements.
Under Comptroller Olomu’s leadership, the Apapa Command made history by generating an unprecedented N2 trillion in revenue as of November 20, 2024. This achievement was credited to rigorous oversight, efficient operations, and the prevention of revenue leakages, even amid reduced trade volumes.
The awards recognized the command’s outstanding contributions in three key areas:
- Revenue Collection: Achieving record-breaking figures.
- Anti-Smuggling Efforts: Strengthening measures to curtail illegal activities.
- Trade Facilitation: Streamlining operations to boost efficiency and compliance.
Comptroller Olomu’s commitment to hands-on supervision, regular evaluations, and fostering discipline among officers was lauded as a key factor in these successes.
Speaking after receiving the awards, Comptroller Olomu dedicated the honors to the officers and men of the command, emphasizing that teamwork, dedication, and cooperation were instrumental to their accomplishments.
“No leader can excel without supportive lieutenants,” he said, calling for sustained collaboration as the year draws to a close.
He also expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, describing him as a source of inspiration for officers across the service.
“This award motivates us to remain selfless, committed, and focused on improving the command’s operations,” Olomu added.
Comptroller Olomu urged port users to adhere to guidelines, report unlawful activities, and leverage the evolving modernization efforts led by CGC Adeniyi.
He commended exporters participating in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Guided Trade Initiative, encouraging more Nigerian traders to utilize the Apapa Port and benefit from streamlined procedures under the ease of doing business initiative.
He also reminded officers that the awards were not just an acknowledgment of past efforts but a call to sustain and enhance the command’s performance. “Compliance saves money, builds integrity, and ensures recognition for authorized economic operator (AEO) status,” he emphasized.
The Apapa Command’s achievements have set a new benchmark for excellence in the Nigeria Customs Service. Comptroller Olomu’s leadership and the command’s dedication have solidified their reputation as trailblazers in revenue collection, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling efforts.