AJOKE PHILIP
The Customs Consultative Committee (CCC) has commended the Controller, Tin Can Island Port Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, for his leadership and outstanding efforts, particularly in the recent seizure of imported illicit drugs worth over N8 billion.
Secretary of the Committee, Eugene Nweke, who spoke during a courtesy visit to the Controller in Lagos on Wednesday, said Comptroller Onyeka’s focus on preventing revenue leakages within bonded terminals and ensuring compliance is a step in the right direction.
“His leadership of the command has yielded impressive results, particularly in the recent seizure of imported illicit drugs worth over N8 billion.
“We therefore applaud his commitment to strengthening surveillance and enforcement measures, which have led to increased revenue collections.
“His achievements are a testament to dedication and the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to excellence. We extend our appreciation to him and the entire team for their tireless efforts in intercepting illicit drugs worth billions of naira, focusing on bonded terminals to prevent revenue leakages, and improving compliance and revenue collections.
Prompt and sustainable inter-agency collaboration via innovative information sharing, ” he said.
To further build on his success, Nweke urged the Controller to continue to strengthen surveillance and enforcement measures, implement robust tracking systems for goods in transit, as well as enhance collaboration with relevant agencies, such as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency ( NDLEA).
He also recommended the provision of special and peculiar training and capacity-building programs for customs officers within the command and encouraged transparency and accountability among terminal operators.
Nweke advised the Tin Can CAC to explore the implementation of advanced
Digital solutions, such as blockchain technology, are being used to track goods in transit and prevent tampering and route diversions.
He also stressed the importance of continuous stakeholder engagement and communication to prevent corruption and ensure compliance.
“He should continuously review and refine strategies to stay ahead of emerging threats and challenges.
” I wish the CAC Onyeka continued success in his role and look forward to seeing the impact of his innovative initiatives in aspects of cargo handling operations, stakeholders and officers of the command and Nigerians in general, ” he said.
The CCC Secretary also extended “greater commendation” to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for fostering an environment that promotes excellence and innovation within the NCS.
“Indeed, your efforts and that of your team are a shining example of the NCS’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s economy and promoting compliance, ” he said.