Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The outgoing Customs Area Controller of the Tincan Island Port Command, F. O. Onyeka, has formally handed over leadership of the Command following his elevation to the rank of Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs.
Speaking during a brief ceremony on Friday, May 22, 2026, Onyeka described his tenure as both “emotional and historic,” noting that serving at the helm of one of the country’s busiest maritime Commands was among the highest honours of his career.
He highlighted several key achievements under his stewardship, foremost of which was the Command’s record revenue performance. The Tincan Island Port Command generated ₦1.61 trillion in 2025, surpassing its annual target of ₦1.52 trillion. In the first quarter of 2026, the Command also collected ₦401 billion, a feat Onyeka attributed to discipline, intelligence-driven operations, improved compliance, and enhanced stakeholder engagement.
Onyeka also reported significant results in anti-smuggling operations, including the interception of illicit drugs and other prohibited items valued at over ₦35 billion. He said the seizures underscore the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) role as a frontline national security agency committed to combating transnational crime.
He noted that collaboration remained central to the Command’s progress, with strengthened partnerships involving freight forwarders, terminal operators, shipping companies, importers, exporters, and other port stakeholders. According to him, these engagements improved operational efficiency, boosted compliance, and enhanced dispute resolution within the port environment.
On human capital development, the outgoing Controller stated that the Command invested heavily in training and capacity-building initiatives to improve officers’ competence, efficiency, and morale. He also acknowledged the humanitarian contributions of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), which he described as an essential support structure for officers’ families.
Onyeka expressed deep appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs and Chairman of the World Customs Organization Council, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, psc(+), for his leadership and support throughout his tenure.
He also commended the Command’s management team and rank-and-file officers for their loyalty, professionalism, and dedication, noting that their collective effort was instrumental to the Command’s success.
As he handed over to his successor, Comptroller Joe Anani, Onyeka urged officers, stakeholders, and members of the trading community to extend to the new Controller the same cooperation and goodwill he enjoyed.
Now assuming his new role as Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs, Onyeka assured that he remains available for consultation and support, adding that Tincan Island Port Command would always hold a special place in his heart.
He closed by thanking all stakeholders and giving glory to God “for granting us the strength, wisdom, and grace to serve successfully.”