Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Tincan Island Port Command, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller Frank Onyeka, has outlined his plans to exceed the revenue target set for the command. Speaking during a courtesy visit by the executive leadership of the Maritime Reporters’ Association of Nigeria (MARAN), Onyeka emphasized his commitment to legitimate trade facilitation and bolstering the nation’s economy.
Highlighting his strategy, Comptroller Onyeka stated, “I’ll facilitate trade, but it has to be legitimate trade. Coming from the revenue angle, my hope and prayer is to meet and surpass my target. However, this will only be possible through diligent examinations and coordination with key units, including the Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU) and Valuation Unit.”
Onyeka assured stakeholders of his readiness to foster a collaborative and transparent approach, ensuring that all operations align with the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “By God’s grace, we will all work together to ensure this vision is achieved,” he added.
Expressing gratitude to Comptroller General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Onyeka pledged to uphold the trust placed in him, stating,
“I am very grateful to CG Adeniyi and his management team. He needs to know that bringing me here was not a mistake. I will make him proud.”
Onyeka also commended his predecessor, Assistant Comptroller General Dera Nnadi, for laying a solid foundation, particularly in anti-smuggling efforts, revenue generation, and infrastructure development.
“I intend to build on his achievements, especially leveraging his strong rapport with the media and public relations. My goal is to enhance and sustain these strides,” he said.
In response, MARAN President, Mr. Godfrey Bivbere, pledged the association’s support in helping the CAC and the command achieve their goals.
“We remain committed to collaborating with the leadership to ensure the success of this administration’s objectives,” Bivbere stated.