Alkali assumes duty as 26th CAC of Port Harcourt II, vows to build on predecessor’s legacy

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

Comptroller Aliyu M Alkali has taken over as the 26th Customs Area Controller of the Nigeria Customs Service’s Port Harcourt II Area Command, succeeding Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG) Mohammed Babandede, who was recently promoted.

In a release signed by Chief Superintendent of Customs Theophilus Peter Duniya, Public Relations Officer of the command, the handover ceremony on September 10, 2025, was marked by warm receptions from stakeholders, including Zonal Coordinator Zone C, ACG Kamal Mohammed, and Port Harcourt I Command Controller, Comptroller Salamatu Atuluku.

Alkali pledged to ensure trade regulation compliance, facilitate legitimate trade, collect federal revenue, and ensure public safety, building on Babandede’s achievements and seeking continued collaboration for growth and excellence.

Babandede being decorated recently with his new rank as ACG

In his handing over speech, the outgoing Customs Area Controller, ACG Mohammed Babandede, thanked officers of the Command, sister agencies, associations at the Onne Port, and the Port management for their support and cooperation during his tenure. He noted that the existing synergy led to tremendous achievements under his watch. He requested continued cooperation and synergy with the new Customs Area Controller.

The Zonal Coordinator, Zone C. ACG Kamal Mohammed, in his speech, said “the outgoing CAC was a distinguished leader, who until recently served as our revered Customs Area Controller, had his tenure nothing short of dedication, vision, and resilience; leaving an indelible mark in the annals of the command’s history. He wished him continued success, greater fulfilment, and Allah’s guidance in all his endeavours.”

He gave the newly deployed Area Controller, a warm welcome and reminded him that the task before him is both noble and demanding. The Zonal Coordinator however, expressed his confidence in the CAC’s ability to steer the Command to greater heights. He added, “We implore you to build on the solid legacies left behind by your predecessor, while bringing in fresh ideas and innovations that will further advance the mission of the Service. Together, we look forward to a new chapter of growth, discipline, and excellence under your leadership.”

In his acceptance remark, Comptroller Aliyu Alkali, pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR. He told stakeholders that his assignment is to ensure compliance with trade regulations, facilitate legitimate trade, collect revenue for the federal government and ensure public safety. He requested all stakeholders to key into Nigeria’s continued development.

Comptroller Alkali reaffirmed his dedication to building upon the solid foundation established by ACG Mohammed Babandede, emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration with stakeholders. He urged ongoing partnership to drive the Command’s contributions to facilitating legitimate trade, generating revenue, curbing economic sabotage, and safeguarding public safety, underscoring his commitment to advancing these critical objectives.