Western Marine Customs praised for exceptional contributions to national security

By Ezurike Ugochukwu 

The Western Marine Command of the Nigerian Customs Service’s impressive revenue collection, seizures of contraband items worth over ₦352 million in Duty Paid Value, demonstration of commitment to the protection of local industries, increased operational efficiency and safeguarding public health gladdens the Zone A Zonal Coordinator, Assistant Comptroller-General Charles Orbih.

Orbih gave the commendation while on a working visit to the Western Marine Command where he lauded the officers and men for their outstanding performance in anti-smuggling, border security, economic protection and highlighting their pivotal role in advancing the goals of the Nigeria Customs Service.

The increased operational efficiency and strategic reforms under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi he said resulted to the collection of ₦1.75 trillion by NCS in the first quarter of 2025 including the Advance Ruling System, Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) program, and the indigenous Unified Customs Management System, known as the B’Odogwu Platform which is enhancing cargo clearance and tracking capabilities across commands.

“The seizures you made go beyond mere numbers,” Orbih stated. “They tell the story of officers who understand that every intercepted contraband item protects Nigeria’s economy and its people.”

Orbih emphasised that Zone A  contributed nearly 80% of total customs revenue notwithstanding.

“From PTML to other commands, the B’Odogwu system is transforming how we clear goods and monitor compliance. This is the kind of innovation driving our mandate forward.”

ACG Orbih also commended the Western Marine Command for its infrastructural improvements, including the construction of a befitting quarter guard and the removal of shanties around the Command’s vicinity, actions which he said demonstrate discipline and commitment to operational excellence.

Reinforcing the urgent need for sustained vigilance, the Coordinator reminded officers of the evolving security threats facing the nation and urged continued collaboration with sister agencies like the Navy, NDLEA, Marine Police, and Immigration.

“Our nation is facing complex threats, and your work here is not just important—it is critical to our national survival,” he said. “We must remain several steps ahead of those who want to undermine Nigeria’s economic integrity.”

He further emphasized the role of the public in national security, calling on citizens to report any suspicious activities related to smuggling or illegal trade within the waterways.

The visit forms part of the Zonal Coordinator’s ongoing tour to reinforce the Service’s three strategic pillars: Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation, and to rally frontline commands in upholding their mandate with renewed vigor and integrity.

The Customs Area Controller, Western Marine Command, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi appreciated the ACG for his visit to the Command and for his words of encouagement to him and his officers. The Comptroller assured the ACG that officers and men of the Command will continue to make the service proud.