Apapa Customs, Navy Strengthen Security Partnership Around Port Operations

The Nigeria Customs Service at Apapa says it is expanding operational ties with the Western Naval Command to tighten security around the port corridor and support smoother cargo movement.

Customs Area Controller Emmanuel Oshoba announced the move during a courtesy visit to Flag Officer Commanding Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Abubakar Mustapha. Oshoba said the approach aligns with Comptroller-General of Customs Adewale Adeniyi’s policy direction of consolidation, collaboration and innovation.

According to him, the Apapa Command intends to build on earlier gains and strengthen day-to-day coordination with naval officers along the axis. He said modern border and port management now depends on agencies working together in real time, not in silos.

Oshoba said the Customs Service is widely recognised for trade facilitation and revenue collection, but added that its mandate also includes critical national security responsibilities. “We also perform critical security functions,” he said, adding that closer cooperation with the military remains necessary for better outcomes.

He described innovation as practical institutional change that improves results, and said deeper inter-agency work is one of the command’s immediate priorities. He also commended the navy for helping to keep shipping lanes safe, noting that vessels cannot berth effectively without secure waters.

Oshoba asked for sustained naval support around Apapa Port to reduce disruptions and maintain seamless movement of cargo. He said dependable security architecture across the maritime environment is central to trade efficiency and government revenue performance.

In his response, Mustapha said the relationship between both agencies has been strong and should be expanded further. He said port security is built on coordination across institutions and warned that economic development cannot be separated from security stability.

The naval commander praised the Customs Service under Adeniyi for tackling leakages and improving revenue outcomes. “The Customs Service has done exceptionally well in blocking revenue leakages and surpassing national revenue targets,” he said.

Mustapha added that stronger revenue collection gives government more room for infrastructure and social interventions, and assured Apapa Command of continued cooperation in securing Nigeria’s maritime domain.