Miko promises continuity, due process as acting PTML customs controller

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Nigeria Customs Service, PTML Area Command, has witnessed a change in leadership following the official handover by outgoing Customs Area Controller, Joe Anani, to Deputy Comptroller of Customs, Nura Miko, who now assumes office in an acting capacity.

The handover ceremony was held on Monday at the PTML Command headquarters in Lagos following Comptroller Anani’s redeployment to the Tin Can Island Port Command of the Service.

Miko and Anani

Speaking during the ceremony, Anani described DC Miko as a seasoned and professional Customs officer capable of sustaining the operational standards already established at the command.

He assured the incoming acting controller of his continued support and willingness to provide guidance whenever necessary.

According to him, the proximity between the PTML Command and the Tin Can Island Port would make consultations and operational collaboration easier.

“Tin Can Island Port Command is only about one kilometre away from PTML, so whenever the need arises concerning Customs procedures and operations, my doors remain open,” Anani said.

The outgoing controller noted that his eight-month tenure at PTML recorded steady improvements in revenue generation, trade facilitation, and operational efficiency.

Industry stakeholders have often described the PTML Command as one of the most strategic commands under the Nigeria Customs Service due to its role in handling roll-on roll-off cargoes, vehicle imports, and fast cargo clearance operations.

In his acceptance remarks, DC Miko praised his predecessor for what he described as exemplary leadership and professionalism, pledging to build on the achievements recorded under Anani’s administration.

He assured officers, stakeholders, and port users that trade facilitation would remain a major focus of the command under his leadership.

“I am taking over from a respected senior colleague who has set commendable standards, and we will work to consolidate on those achievements,” Miko stated.

The acting controller stressed the importance of diligence, transparency, and strict adherence to due process in Customs operations.

“Together we will take the command to greater heights,” he added.

Miko also highlighted the need for stronger collaboration with other government agencies operating within the port environment, noting that operational success at PTML would depend largely on synergy among stakeholders.

He further expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for the confidence reposed in him through the deployment.

The ceremony was attended by senior officers of the Nigeria Customs Service, representatives of sister government agencies, freight forwarders, and other maritime stakeholders who gathered to witness the official transfer of leadership at the command.

Observers within the maritime industry say the leadership transition comes at a critical period when the Nigeria Customs Service is intensifying reforms aimed at boosting revenue generation, improving trade facilitation, deploying digital systems, and strengthening anti-smuggling operations across the nation’s ports and border formations.