APAPA PORT INTENSIFY EFFORT FOR FULL SCANNER TAKE-OFF IN 2026

By Okey Iroegbu 

The Nigeria Customs Service in the regime of Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR PhD did everything possible to change the narrative on trade facilitation in 2025. On Monday 22 December 2025

at the flagship of all the Customs command, Apapa, the Nigeria Customs Service has intensified preparations for the operational take-off of its newly installed FS6000 scanning machine at APM Terminals, Apapa. This was following the working visit of the Deputy Comptroller-General of Customs in charge of ICT, DCG Oluyomi

Adebakin. With the information reaching this media through the command's Public Relations Officer, CSC Isah Sulaiman,  the visit comes as a build-up to the deployment of the scanners, which recently completed final test runs and simulation exercises at the terminal as part of the Service’ drive toward paperless cargo clearance, trade facilitation and operational efficiency. The report further said that speaking during the inspection of the scanning site at the Jetty side of

APMT, DCG Adebakin explained that the visit was aimed at ensuring adequate pre-arrangement and preparedness for a smooth transition to full scanning operations in line with international best practices. “The reason for this visit is the pre-arrangement and preparation for the take-up of the FX6000 scanning machine at the Jetty side of APMT, so that we can have a seamless transition to a scanning system which aligns with international best practices,” she said. She disclosed that the level of readiness to deploy the scanners are at  about 80 percent, which involves a tripartite responsibility involving the Nigeria Customs Service, APM Terminals, and the Trade Modernisation Project (TMP), adding that the remaining critical components would be fully addressed before commissioning. “From what we have seen, we can say that we are 80 percent ready. The remaining 20 percent is very vital, and I believe that prior to commissioning, it will be properly fixed. From the scanning examination and system analysis carried out, the system is good to go, and between now and the commissioning, we will achieve a proper take-up,” she noted. The DCG further highlighted the benefits the stakeholders should expect after commissioning, she assured port users of seamless operations, faster cargo clearance, reduced demurrage, ease of doing business and a balanced approach between trade facilitation and compliance. “The era of scattering people’s goods in the name of examination is over. This is a non-intrusive inspection system in line with international best practices. It is to the advantage of importers, consignees, terminal operators and the Service. The scanner has a throughput capacity of about 200 containers per hour,” she added. It could be realized that on November 6, 2025, under the supervision of the Customs Area Controller, Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, the scanners were successfully tested for real-time synchronization of scanned images with electronic declarations. This visit therefore is to build on the recent completion of the final simulation exercise. Comptroller Oshoba has reiterated and assures critical stakeholders of  the Command’s commitment to supporting the Service’s ICT-driven reforms. He therefore confirmed a smooth transition to full scanner-based cargo examination at

Apapa Port by the year 2026.

HARVEST OF MULTIPLE BLESSINGS 2Cor 9:10 AT KIRIKIRI. "YOUR OFFERING WILL SPEAK FOR YOU," BY HIS EMINENCE SAMSON OGBU OF ST. JOSEPH'S CHOSEN CHURCH OF GOD WORLDWIDE.

By Okey Iroegbu 

St. Joseph's Chosen Church of God Worldwide, Lagos region rounded up the Harvest of Ingathering today Sunday, December 14, 2025 at the Regional headquarters at Kirikiri Branch. The Spiritual Leader, Apostle (Dr.) S. N. Ogbu, in his usual way arrived the celebration ahead of many others by 8:40 am. In his entourage are Apostle Joseph Jacobson and the Secretary General of the Church, Staff Pastor Elohor. There was as usual a Sunday lesson after which the service commenced with an opening prayer by Apostle Jacobson.

There were visions which propelled the day's activities. The Staff Pastor Elohor interpreted the visions. 

The spiritual leader moved with the program as he moved ahead to rededicate the church building. It was a joyous moment as members were entertained by the choir.

In his welcoming address , the Regional Supervisor, Apostle Apostle Dr Osanebi did not mince words to eulogies the region on her feat as the best for now on financial commitments.

"I welcome you all to this year's Ingathering Harvest and the official opening of the new cathedral of the Kirikiri Branch, our Regional Headquarters. 

"We are grateful to God Almighty for this privilege and for all He has used to fulfil the dream that today Kirikiri has a new look," he said beaming with joy. 

He went further to thank and bless those who made the project possible.

"May God Almighty bless those who have supported this vision. You will not lack, in Jesus' Name. Amen."

On the main day's activity, the harvest ingathering he said that the virtue of getting blessings from God is primarily predicted on giving good gifts willingly.

"As we gather, we acknowledge that every good gift comes from God, the giver of good things. Today, we are concluding the Harvest and Thanksgiving celebration which started in the third week of October across the 21 branches of the Region," he said.

Citing 2nd Corinthians 9:10 — “God's supply is unending.” God has assured us of His divine supply, like seed to the sower and bread for food. The above verse reminds us that God's provision is not just a one-time event but a continuous process. 

        He finally informed the visiting Spiritual leader about the exploits the region made.

"Drawing from the theme of the year by our Spiritual Leader, “The Kingdom Mandate" we in Lagos embarked on massive evangelism and the restoration of lost souls.

"The third report from the Secretary is evidence of the result that, in this year 2025, 

Lagos Region is the best region in financial growth and among the few Regions"

He thereafter informed members of the remaining programme for the year and early next year.

"Having said that, on the 21st of December, there will be Christmas Carol Services across  the Region. 

"On January 3rd, 2026, we will be starting our Regional fasting, to end with our first Regional All-night on the 23rd of January at the Regional headquarters, Kirikiri Branch, as we await the theme for the year from the Spiritual leader.

"On the 25th of January, 2026, we will be entering the year with a Thanksgiving Service and the official opening of anew Branch in Mowe, Ogun State, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway," he concludes.

        At this point, the Spiritual leader mounted the pulpit to feed the congregation. This was a very cherished privilege as this does not come always. He gave his theme as "Your offering will speak for you." This topic was well illustrated with the story of the death of Dorcas and her restoration. When Dorcas sudden death came to the people, they all cried and testified of her kindness while praying that she should not die. They all cited her kindness and she did for everyone of them. He also cited the faithfulness of Abraham when he was tempted to sacrifice his only son. He also reminded the congregation about the instructions given to Noah about the Ark and the invitation to all the creatures. That, it could be realised that all animals entered including the nail which could not move with the speed of other animals but it finally entered. He prayed for everyone that the Ark would not be closed until we enter the Ark.

He finally prayed that our offerings will speak to us today.

After this teaching by the spiritual leader the harvest commenced with presentation of farm produce, cash from members. Photos are uploaded under.

SEME AREA COMMAND REFUTES MISLEADING ONLINE REPORT ON BORDER OPERATIONS

By Okey Iroegbu 

The mischief makers are on it again peddling unfounded information on the famous Nigerian land border. According to report reaching this media through the command's Public Relations Officer, CSC Isah Sulaiman there is a misleading publication circulating online, making unfounded claims about the conduct of officers along the Seme corridor. The Command according to the report disassociates itself from the said report and further urged the public to disregard it as faults. It could be noted that there was an altercation recently when one of the command's officers along Seme Badagry Road had some frictions in the course of their duty with one Mr. Yakubu Sulaimon. The incident, which occurred on Thursday, November 13, 2025, had initially sparked fury and demands for justice after the Customs officer was accused of physically assaulting him. But this issue was swiftly resolved by the command's leadership which found out also that it was a case of mistaken identity and inter-agency accountability. According to a report from one correspondence from another on this issue, "Comptroller Wale Adenuga, the Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Border Command, has demonstrated a firm commitment to accountability by taking decisive and surprising action following an alleged assault on a Badagry resident." It could be observed that since the assumption of office by the Customs Area Controller, of Seme Area Command, Comptroller Wale Adenuga, the command has been significantly strengthened through enhanced collaboration with the Nigerian Military and other sister security agencies. The reactivation of the Joint Border Security Meeting (JBSM) has further reinforced joint operations aimed at curbing smuggling. It is on this note that the public is seriously advised not to be misled by any false information by the distracters who will go to any extent to create confusion to enable them carry out their nefarious activities moreso during this yuletide. "As enforcement intensifies during the yuletide season, the Command is aware that individuals whose illegal activities have been disrupted may resort to misinformation and sensational reporting. While these attempts are unsurprising, they will not distract the Command from carrying out its lawful duties," the report said. It is on record that the command has performed brilliantly since the assumption of duty of the CAC. From 9 September 2025 to date, "the

Command recorded the seizure of over 4,000 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice (equivalent to approximately seven trailer loads), Five trailer loads of expired flour, endangered species (Lion Cub and Patas Monkeys) over 2000 parcels of Cannabis Sativa (marjuana), among other seizures. These results reflect the renewed operational drive to protect Nigeria’s economic interests. "Under the leadership of Comptroller Adenuga, the revenue of the Command has improved significantly, rising from average of 500 and 600 million Naira monthly revenue collection to over ₦1.5 billion in September and exceeding ₦2.5 billion in October; an increase of more than 300%. This growth is attributed to blocked leakages, strengthened enforcement, and enhanced facilitation of legitimate trade," it further said. Finally, the command reassured the critical stakeholders of the commitment of the officers to professionalism, transparency and zero tolerance for corruption or misconduct. "With the continuous support of the Comptroller-General of Customs and the Management Team, the Command will sustain its efforts in safeguarding national security, enforcing compliance and facilitating lawful trade through the Lagos-Abidjan corridor," the report reads on behalf of the Customs Area Controller.

SEME BORDER COMMAND HOSTS AN IMPRESSIVE COWA GREEN BORDER INITIATIVE AND EMPOWERMENT OF MEMBERS

By Okey Iroegbu 

Comptroller Wale Adenuga made an impressive feats today, Tuesday, November 11, 2025 when within a relatively short notice, was able to put together an elaborate reception and hosting of Customs Officers

Wives Association COWA at his Command in Seme Border. The heavily attended event is nothing but a qualified success. It was full of panache as facilities sprouted overnight changing the aesthetics of the command. The Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Adeniyi used the occasion to commission new set of high-powered solar streetlights in

the command and also the remodeled Officer’s Mess. He explained that to secure the Command’s barracks, the Command has commissioned solar street lights. He added that the officers’ Mess which has been remodeled and named after Mrs. Adeniyi will enable

them have good relaxation experience often. “We cleared this environment to make it an extension of the Mess and that’s why we named it “Kikelomo Shakirat Adeniyi Arena” and we are entrusting it to the care of the COWA. We are planting 30 coconut trees. Coconut grows very well in this area and it has economic benefits. “The CGC gave me a mandate to light up the barracks command and I am glad to inform you that we have brought it to fulfillment. We are assuring you that One thousand people will benefit from the medical outreach,” he said. The workaholic Customs Area Controller was seen very early on the D-Day putting things together in the Arena with his officers. He was all over the place working closely with the Command's Public Relations Officer, CSC Suleiman Isa and others. All were in preparation to host the august visit of the wife of the Customs Comptroller General, who doubles as the President of Customs Officers Wife Association (COWA), Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi who used the opportunity to present different empowerment items to deserving Customs

wives in the command. On her contribution to the event, Dr. Sadiya Baba, the Head of Gynaecology and Controller at the Customs Hospital explained that the outreach will cover breast cancer awareness, education and even screening. She also confirmed that  there will be medical consultations, laboratory tests, HIV tests, Hepatitis B surface antigen, hepatitis C antigen and Blood Pressure screening.

“The Comptroller General of Customs considers the welfare of men and officers very important. We are here initially on first aid training. First aid training is proactive. Recently, we’ve noticed that people are slumping and dying in the community. Emergencies are on the increase. You don’t have to be a medical person to be able to give first aid. First aid, when given at the right time, in the right way, is going to save a lot of people,” she said. At the event, the Assistant Comptroller General of Customs, the Zonal Coordinator for Zone A, Lagos, Mohammed Babandede represented the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR commended Comptroller Adenuga for his collaboration with sister security agencies and traditional rulers. In his opening remarks, the ACG hailed the leadership intelligence of Mrs. Adeniyi in driving the growth and empowerment of Nigerian Customs wives across the federation. He used the

occasion to hail the wives of Customs officers for the good care they are taking of their husbands which has played out in the rising service delivery of their husbands in growing trade facilitation and national security. The event basically started around the Officers Mess where a portion was created for the President of COWA which she unveiled before the ceremonial planting of Coconut trees. The invited dignitaries which included among others, Traditional Rulers were all compelled to plant trees which they were advised to find ways to nurture them to maturity. The association finally planted about 30 Coconut  trees and launched the Green Border Initiative ,a programme set up to address environmental degradation and socio-economic issues in border communities. For a cleaner environment COWA had to gifts many of the invited agencies some waste bins. COWA National President, Mrs. Adeniyi stated that the initiative is not meant only to restore the ecosystem but it’s also a way of giving back to the youths and women at the border areas . “We see trash around and we can turn all of these things to useful materials. COWA is concerned about empowerment. We’re looking away from the usual and that’s why we’re going international given that the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi is now the World Custom Organisation (WCO) Chairperson,” she said. At the parade ground where the empowerment took place, the Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Adenuga welcomed all the guests. He sincerely eulogized the  Comptroller General of Customs for really changing the narratives and making the service proud. On her speech, the President of COWA gave the reasons behind the empowerment of Customs officers wives nationwide, as she said “We thought it wise that while our husbands are doing their best in improving the national security and economy by trade facilitation and revenue generation, it is very important that we as wives, will support them with one or two means of livelihood for the growth of the families. She also revealed that ahead of

coming to Seme Border command for the empowerment, she has empowered well over 250 COWA members in Abuja. It could be noted that more than 100 COWA members were empowered with varying degrees of items ranging from cash, grinding machines, heavy duty gas burner with gas cylinders, electronic weaving machines and additional financial supports to benefiting wives of Customs officers in the command. Among the security agencies at the event included the Nigeria Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, NDLEA, NAFDAC,

Immigration, Civil Defense Corps, the DSS and many agencies. All the heads of these agencies were given an opportunity to  present goodwill messages at the event.

COMPTROLLER WALE ADENUGA: A DANIEL HAS COME TO JUDGMENT

By Okey Iroegbu 

Since Seme Border became a revenue generating command for the Nigeria Customs Service in 1992, the ECOWAS corridor has remained busy. At Seme border other agencies came on board not for revenue generation but preventive service. There is a proliferation of agencies identified with different colours of their uniforms. Mounting Road Blocks for different purposes. Among these agencies are the Police, Custom and

Immigration which are prominent at the border as a result of the policies of the nation. The police and Customs authorities have on paper in several occasion warned their men to keep off the road. At Mile 2/Seme road, the police has reiterated that the only units allowed on these roads are the Federal Highway Patrol and the Enhanced Nigeria/Benin Joint Border Patrol. For the Customs, the CGC has also on several occasion maintained that the only approved checkpoints on this route are the Gbaji and Agbara joint checkpoints. Unfortunately the continued springing up of additional checkpoints littered along the road forcing one to pounder if we have more than one inspector-General of Police and Customs Comptroller-General in Nigeria. A first time visitor at this corridor will feel the atmosphere of war at the rate of brigand prevalent at these extorting points. An average observer expects these officers to fight these rampant and preventable crimes on these roads, peddling in hard drugs, human trafficking for prostitution and child labour, stealing of vehicles, escaping of bandits, armed robberies, common criminals and hoodlums through the border, instead of the much concentration on the boots of vehicles for

perceived contraband items. Comptroller Wale Adenuga, Customs Area Controller, Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command on resumption of duty at this famous land border felt that it must be reformed now. On Monday 6th of October 2025 he summoned the critical stakeholders for a meeting where everybody was asked to open up on issues affecting the corridor more especially on multiple checkpoints between the border and Agbara. On the next day Tuesday 7th of October 2025, he held a Joint Border Management stakeholders’ engagement with officials of Benin Republic Customs, other security agencies and representatives of the business community from both countries. In a statement made public by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSC Isah Sulaiman, the report confirms that Comptroller

Adenuga while addressing the stakeholders said the Seme-Krake border which is strategic to trade in the West African sub region also plays a critical role in intra African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). It could also be noted that the meeting was in pursuant of a mandate given by the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, that all identified impediments to free flow of trade are eradicated in line with the extant laws and ECOWAS protocols of free movement of goods and persons. The CAC hinted that the border holds great economic potential that will be beneficial to citizens and traders from the Two countries that have historical, cultural and trade relationships dating from the pre-independence era of both West African countries. Quoting the resolutions as Listed on the report from the Command's PRO some of the quick takes from the meeting are as follows; "Comptroller Adenuga highlighted that any officer or non government official caught frustrating free movement of persons and goods that have met all formal conditions shall be arrested and prosecuted. He urged all travelers and traders to bring their complainants to him directly or call the PRO for

immediate and prompt action. "He also disclosed that truck examination shall be conducted at the designated examination bay to streamline the process of importation into Nigeria from the neighbouring country. "The meeting, which was the second in a series of strategic engagements under the new controller,  was attended by representative of the Chargè d'affaires of the Nigeria Embassy to Benin republic, top security chiefs, business men and women from both countries, also promised to look into issues like timely removal of truck trackers for quicker movement, reduce unnecessary checkpoints, prevent corruption and continually promote dialogue as a means to effective trade. "On space management at the border environment, Comptroller Adenuga said the border is a transit area and should not be made a parking zone or storage point to avoid congestion. Reacting to this laudable plan, The Head of Benin Customs at the Krake border, Lt. Col Arnaud Midgrokan, who is also the Co-Chair of the Joint Border Post, appreciated Comptroller Adenuga for the meeting and expressed optimism that the engagement will open avenues to solutions for all identified challenges.

Meanwhile the week could be adjudged as a qualified success for the 'Servant leader' Customs Area Controller of the command, Comptroller Adenuga rounded the week on Thursday 9th, October 2025 with a press briefing to showcase wonderful exploits from his officers on anti smuggling. It could be realized that in just one month of taking charge at the Area Command, Comptroller Adenuga has proved that he is a veteran on the area command where there is no apian way he is not aware of. Addressing

journalists on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the COWA Secretariat, Seme Border, the CAC recounted how his officers inspired by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR had achieved remarkable progress across revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations, and trade facilitation within a short time. “When trade is facilitated, processes are streamlined, costs are reduced, and more revenue is generated,” he said and the results have been striking as the Area Command generated ₦1.5 billion in September 2025, a massive leap from ₦531 million recorded in August, which is a 182% increase in just one month. Between September 1 and October 9, 2025, the Seme Command intercepted expired flour, hard drugs, foreign rice, and other contraband worth a staggering ₦1.99 billion in Duty Paid Value (DPV).10,000 bags of expired flour from Egypt, valued at ₦1.21 billion, intercepted in a joint operation with NAFDAC. 1,104 parcels of Cannabis Sativa (Marijuana) and 120 packs of Tramadol 120mg, with two suspects handed over to the NDLEA. 2,043 bags of foreign parboiled rice, 150 bales of second-hand clothes, 169 bottles of codeine cough syrup, and five used vehicles. The Comptroller stated that the seizure aligns with the Service’s broader mission of curbing smuggling activities that undermine national economic growth and public safety. He emphasized that the fight against economic sabotage remains a top priority for the Nigeria

Customs Service. Comptroller Adenuga, who described smuggling as an act of sabotage against the nation’s economy, warned that those who continue to indulge in the illicit trade will face the full weight of the law. He further commended the synergy among various security agencies, crediting inter-agency cooperation for the success of the operation. According to him, the collaboration between the Customs Service, the Nigerian Navy, and the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) played a vital role in tracking, intercepting, and confiscating the illegal consignments. The command, he revealed, generated ₦1.5 billion in revenue for the month of September 2025, reflecting both the improved compliance level of traders and the command’s intensified vigilance at the border. Receiving the seized expired flour, the Officer in Charge of NAFDAC, Dr. Nurudeen Usman narrated on the synergy between the two agencies and how they have been operating. He confirmed that even on seized rice and other edibles that could be redistributed to the public as a means of avoiding waste, NAFDAC is invited to carry out laboratory taste to confirm if they are safe for consumption. Also receiving seized narcotics, Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA Seme Special Area, Ajoku Rita Chinyere, praised the Customs Command for its vigilance and partnership in curbing drug smuggling. She disclosed that a series of inter-agency meetings were ongoing to strengthen border management and eliminate illegal trade.  “If you do legitimate business, nobody goes after you, but when you bring expired goods or drugs, the law will not be gentle with you,” she said. The media men further went tours of the command with emphasis on the bonded terminal which is doing a great work to resuscitate the command on trade facilitations. 

FOU ‘C’ DECORATES 67 PROMOTED OFFICERS, URGES THEM ON INTEGRITY AND PROFESSIONALISM

By Okey Iroegbu 

"Promotion in the Service is not a routine exercise; it is a reward for hard work, loyalty, and commitment to duty. It also comes with greater responsibilities and expectations. For those being decorated today, this recognition is a call to higher performance, integrity, and leadership," these were the passionate words from Comptroller Birshir Abdullahi Balogun, the Customs Area

Controller of Federal Operations Unit FOU Zone 'C' Owerri of Nigeria Customs Service. The Customs Area Controller CAC has urged the 67 newly promoted officers

of the Unit to strictly uphold the core values of the Service comprising integrity, transparency, and professionalism. With the information reaching this media from the Unit headquarters at Owerri, Imo State, the Controller also urged the officers to see their promotion as a reward for diligence, hard work and

excellent service to the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigerian nation as a whole. A breakdown of the 67 promoted officers shows that three officers were elevated from the rank of Assistant Comptroller to Deputy Comptroller while one officer was elevated to the rank of Assistant Comptroller from the former rank of Chief Superintendent of Customs. Four officers were elevated from the rank of Superintendent to Chief Superintendent while seven others were promoted to the rank of Superintendent from the former rank of Deputy Superintendent of Customs.  Others are 15 officers who were promoted from the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Customs 1 to Deputy Superintendent. 17 others were elevated to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Customs 1 from Assistant

Superintendent II, while 18 officers were promoted to the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Customs II from Inspector of Customs, just as two officers were promoted from the rank of Assistant Inspector of Customs to Inspector of Customs, bringing to a total of 67 promoted officers. The Federal Operations Unit, no doubt is an interventionist unit, policing not only the Importers/Exporters and

Freight Forwarders but even the the Customs officers too. He therefore advised the officers that the Unit requires diligence and thoroughness in carrying out their duties. “The Federal Operations Unit is a critical arm of the Service and the nation expect us to continue to strengthen anti smuggling operations, revenue recovery, and trade facilitation,” Balogun said. He, as usual expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR and his management team for ensuring that hard work and merit were rewarded, while also expressing appreciation to the families and colleagues who supported the newly promoted officers. “To those who didn’t get promoted this time, I encourage you to be strong and prepare harder next time,” he concluded.