Apapa Customs, Nigerian Navy Deepen Operational Collaboration to Boost Maritime Security and Revenue

Apapa Customs, Nigerian Navy Deepen Operational Collaboration to Boost Maritime Security and Revenue

The Nigeria Customs Service  (NCS), Apapa Area Command, has strengthened its operational synergy with the Nigerian Navy as part of efforts to enhance maritime security, trade facilitation, and revenue generation.

The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Apapa Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, paid a courtesy visit on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, to the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, to reinforce collaboration in line with the policy direction of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

Oshoba explained that the engagement aligns with the Comptroller-General’s three policy thrusts of Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation.

According to him, consolidation involves building on existing achievements and strengthening the already cordial relationship between the Apapa Command and the Navy within the operational corridor.

On collaboration, the CAC stressed that modern border management demands close inter-agency cooperation. He noted that while the Customs Service is widely known for trade facilitation and revenue generation, it also performs critical national security functions that require working closely with the military.

“Modern border management requires agencies to work in tandem. While Customs is known for trade facilitation and revenue generation, we also perform critical security functions. To achieve this mandate, we must collaborate with the military, the mother of security,” he said.

He further described innovation as adopting new approaches to achieve improved outcomes, adding that strengthening inter-agency cooperation forms part of that strategy.

Comptroller Oshoba commended the Navy for its role in securing Nigeria’s maritime environment, noting that safe waters are essential for vessel traffic and seamless port operations. He also sought sustained naval support along the Apapa port corridor to ensure uninterrupted cargo movement.

Responding, Rear Admiral Mustapha acknowledged the longstanding partnership between both agencies and underscored the importance of coordination in port security.

“Port security is about inter-agency coordination. Without security, there is no development,” he stated.

The FOC also praised the Customs Service under CGC Adeniyi for blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets, encouraging the Service to sustain its performance in support of national development.

He assured the Apapa Area Command of improved and seamless cooperation in securing the maritime domain and contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth.

The meeting further reinforces ongoing efforts by the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian Navy to strengthen maritime governance and support national economic stability.