Afeni Assumes Office as Ogun I Customs Controller, Pledges Stronger Border Security, Trade Facilitation
The newly appointed Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Ogun I Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Oladapo Afeni, has outlined key strategic priorities aimed at strengthening border security, deepening interagency collaboration and improving personnel welfare.
Afeni, who formally assumed office last Thursday, took over from Comptroller Godwin Otunla and made his first address at the Command Headquarters in Idiroko. He reaffirmed his commitment to aligning the operations of the command with the policy thrust of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.
Setting the agenda for his tenure, Afeni said his administration would prioritise intelligence-led operations to curb smuggling, enhance cooperation with sister security agencies, and build stronger relationships with border communities. He also assured stakeholders of improved operational efficiency and sustained trade facilitation.
“It is a great honour to assume the leadership of Ogun I Area Command. I am fully aware of the unique operational environment of this command, particularly its vast border coverage and strategic importance to national security and the economy,” he said.
“I assure you that we will consolidate on the achievements recorded by my predecessor while pursuing continuous improvement in enforcement, intelligence-driven operations, stakeholder engagement, community relations and overall efficiency.”
The new Controller expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs for the confidence reposed in him, noting that the Ogun I Command remains critical to revenue generation, suppression of smuggling and facilitation of legitimate trade along Nigeria’s border with the Republic of Benin.
Afeni holds a Bachelor of Technology degree in Industrial Design from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, and a Master’s degree in Diplomacy and Strategic Studies from the University of Lagos. He has also undertaken extensive professional training in conflict management, international negotiation, strategic leadership and border operations.
Meanwhile, the outgoing Area Controller, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, was commended for his impactful tenure, which recorded notable successes in reducing smuggling activities, improving personnel welfare, enhancing trade facilitation and strengthening interagency cooperation. Afeni has pledged to build on these achievements to further reposition the command.
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