New Ogun I Customs boss pledges tighter border security, trade boost,  smuggling crackdown 

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Nigeria’s Customs Service(NCS) has appointed Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Oladapo Afeni as the new Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Ogun I Area Command.

Afeni takes over from Comptroller Godwin Otunla who assumed duty at the command on 24 April, 2025 to helm this key Border post – Idiroko popularised by its adjoining connectivity with the Republic of Benin, as he has vows to boost security, trade, reduce smuggling to its barrest minimum and prioritise officer welfare in the strategic zone.

Speaking at Idiroko headquarters of the command, Afeni aligned his agenda with Customs CG Adewale Adeniyi’s policies, stressing intelligence-led operations, interagency collaboration, and border community ties.

He said, “It’s a great honour leading Ogun I.  I know this command’s vast borders and economic importance to national revenue and security.”

The Ogun I Command handles a major Benin-Nigeria trade corridor, pivotal to pricing, smuggling checks, and government income. Afeni’s priorities include sustaining trade facilitation – vital for economic growth – alongside cracking smuggling via intelligence.

Afeni however pledged, “We’ll consolidate gains and improve efficiency, enforcement, and community relations.”

The new CAC  lauded his predecessor Otunla’s record on reducing smuggling, boosting welfare, and interagency ties. Customs insiders say maintaining those wins is a test for Afeni.

Comptroller Afeni, A Federal University of Technology, Akure alumni with a Lagos University MSc in Diplomacy and Strategic Studies, trained in conflict management negotiation, and border operations.

The Service will track enforcement, revenue, and stakeholder engagement outcomes under Afeni.

As Afeni early results may shape nationwide border reforms. With Benin borders critical to Nigeria’s economy, Afeni’s mandate gets sharp focus from traders, security agents, and officials.

Ogun I Customs in Retrospects of the Command:

Otunla at his assumption of bury from Controllers Shuaibu last April

Ogun 1  oversees Nigeria-Benin border trade and security.
Otunla as part of his achievements curbed smuggling, boosted welfare and strengthened interagency ties.

Some of the key challenges of the command includes balancing trade flow against smuggling crackdown; border security.

Prospects abound that Afeni’s technology & diplomacy background, his training in border operations will go a long way to put Nigeria on a strong economic rebound.

The service eyes outcomes under Afeni’s leadership to possibly revamp broader border strategies nationwide.