Comptroller Frank Onyeka Reinforces Customs Procedures, Engages Stakeholders on Seamless Port Operations
Comptroller Frank Onyeka of the Tincan Island Port Command has reiterated the critical importance of thorough cargo examination to enhance national security and streamline port operations.
Addressing officers during a parade at the Command on Tuesday, he urged them to ensure diligent inspections before consignments leave the port, thereby reducing the need for unnecessary stop-and-search exercises upon exit.
Emphasising the role of Customs in safeguarding national interests, Onyeka underscored the necessity of maintaining high standards in cargo clearance.
“Every officer must prioritise national security in all clearance processes. Proper examination of consignments is non-negotiable to ensure that no prohibited items make their way into circulation,” he stated.
The Comptroller also acknowledged the officers’ dedication, which contributed to the Command’s strong revenue performance in January.
He encouraged them to sustain their efforts and announced plans to introduce capacity-building workshops aimed at deepening officers’ and stakeholders’ understanding of Customs procedures.
In addition, Onyeka reminded personnel of the importance of professionalism in their dealings with importers, freight forwarders, and other port users.
He warned that any reports of misconduct would be met with strict disciplinary measures.
“Our duty is to facilitate trade while upholding the highest ethical standards. Officers must be courteous and professional in all interactions,” he cautioned.
In a separate development, the Comptroller received high-ranking stakeholders on familiarisation visits to the Command.
Among them were the newly deployed Director of State Services (DSS), Mr SM Kayode, and the Executive Chairman of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFLON), Alhaji Akeem Ayibojo, along with members of his association.
The meetings reinforced the commitment of both agencies to fostering seamless port operations and preventing the importation of harmful goods.
During discussions with APFLON representatives, Onyeka addressed technical concerns raised by the association, assuring them that the Command remains committed to upholding the three key mandates of the Comptroller-General of Customs – collaboration, consolidation, and innovation.
“Our objective is to create a secure and efficient working environment that does not pose any threat to the nation or its citizens. The repositioning of this Command aligns with that vision,” Onyeka stated.
He further called on stakeholders to familiarise themselves with new Customs policies and prepare for the imminent launch of the B’Odogwu clearance system by Comptroller-General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR.
According to Onyeka, the system, once implemented, will significantly enhance the efficiency of Customs operations at the port.
The engagements reflect the Tincan Island Port Command’s dedication to fostering cooperation between Customs, security agencies, and trade stakeholders in pursuit of a more effective and transparent port administration.
