Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, has reaffirmed its commitment to removing trade bottlenecks affecting the free movement of goods and services along the Lagos–Abidjan corridor through renewed collaboration with critical stakeholders.
This commitment was demonstrated during a series of familiarisation visits by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Timi Kaila, to traditional rulers, sister security agencies, and officials of the Republic of Benin, aimed at strengthening relationships essential to effective border management.
During his visit to the Palace of the Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, Comptroller Kaila expressed condolences over the passing of HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, describing him as a highly respected monarch whose influence extended across border communities.
Speaking during the visit, Comptroller Kaila said:
“The purpose of my visit is to introduce myself as the Area Controller of Seme Command and to seek your royal blessings and support as we work to fulfill the core mandate of the Service. Our priorities remain revenue generation, trade facilitation, and suppression of smuggling. Without the support of traditional rulers, effective border management becomes difficult.”
Responding on behalf of the royal family, the King Regent, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, praised the Comptroller’s approach and reaffirmed the kingdom’s cooperation.
“We have listened to your request. Badagry is a peaceful community, and we will continue to collaborate with Customs to safeguard our borders and promote legitimate trade,” he assured.
At the Palace of the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori Kingdom, Oba Israel Okoya pledged full support to the Service, describing Comptroller Kaila as a welcome development to the border area.
“I welcome you to Badagry. Be assured that I will always talk to my people whenever the need arises. Our youths do not engage in illegalities, and I have no hesitation in supporting you to achieve the government’s mandate,” he said.
The Customs helmsman also visited the Palace of the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, where HRM Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye commended him as a seasoned and well-respected officer.
“I promise to assist you in any way needed. Our border has remained peaceful because our youths listen to their elders, and with your presence, things will continue to improve,” the monarch said.
As part of efforts to strengthen inter-agency synergy, Comptroller Kaila visited the Headquarters of the 653 Nigerian Air Force Base, Ahanve-Badagry, where the Commanding Officer, Group Captain Hungruy Medugu, pledged unwavering cooperation.
“Our collaboration has been key to the successes recorded in our area of responsibility. Your presence here strengthens the bond between our agencies, and we do not take this relationship for granted” he stated.
The Area Controller concluded his tour with a visit to the Republic of Benin Police office, emphasizing the need for deeper cross-border cooperation to ensure seamless movement of goods and services and eradicate trade hindrances along the corridor.