Joyce Mmereole Okoli
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) marked the 2025 International Customs Day with a strong emphasis on the global theme set by the World Customs Organization (WCO): *”Customs Delivering on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity.”*
At a ceremony held at Tincan Island Port, the Zonal Coordinator of the NCS Zone ‘A’, Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) Charles Orbih, highlighted the alignment of the WCO theme with the strategic vision of Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR. Orbih underscored that the NCS’s policy focus on Collaboration, Consolidation, and Innovation is essential to achieving the ideals of the theme.
“Innovation drives efficiency, enhances security, and leads to prosperity,” Orbih stated.
He also disclosed a remarkable revenue milestone achieved by the Tincan Island Port Customs Command, which generated ₦86 billion by January 27, surpassing the ₦83 billion collected in January 2024.
Orbih emphasized the need for Customs officers to embody the year’s theme in their operations. “Starting from Tincan Island Port, Customs must do things the right way to improve efficiency, national security, and revenue generation, which leads to prosperity,” he said.
During the event, ACG Orbih celebrated outstanding officers and stakeholders whose contributions have advanced the NCS’s mission. He encouraged Customs personnel to demonstrate professionalism and innovation in their roles, noting that their collective actions play a critical role in Nigeria’s economic competitiveness and security.
Meanwhile, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, Area Controller for Tincan Island Port, unveiled a comprehensive action plan for the Command. The plan is anchored on three pillars:
- Capacity Building: Continuous training and professional development to prepare officers for modern customs operations.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Strengthening partnerships with private sector players, government agencies, and international organizations for unified trade and border management.
- Accountability and Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of transparency to build public trust.
“Our work impacts millions across the nation and billions continentally,” Onyeka stated, urging officers to see their roles as crucial to Nigeria’s prosperity and global economic participation.
With innovation and collaboration as cornerstones, the NCS remains committed to enhancing trade facilitation, protecting Nigeria’s economic interests, and contributing to a brighter future for the nation.
This celebration not only honored the achievements of Customs officers but also charted a clear course for 2025, showcasing how strategic reforms and partnerships can drive efficiency and national progress.