By Tony Nzekwe
In commemoration of the International Customs Day; a day set aside by the United Nations to recognize, take-stock and evaluate the operations, administration and service delivery of customs services all over the world.
In view of the backdrop, the Port Harcourt Area II Command Onne and Oil Gas Free Trade Zone Command, Onne, has joined the global community in commemorating International Customs Day at the Area II Conference Centre, Onne. The event was marked by the presence of esteemed government agencies, stakeholders, and industry leaders.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were representatives from key government agencies, including the Immigration Marine Command, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone Authority, and the Standards Organization of Nigeria (SON). The event also witnessed the participation of terminal operators and bonded terminals such as West African Container Terminal (WACT), Onne Multi-Purpose Terminal (OMT), and Don-Climax. Shipping companies including MSC, CMA, and Maersk, alongside customs clearing agents like the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), the National Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), and the Council for the Regulation of Freight Forwarding in Nigeria (CRFFN), were also represented.
In his remarks, the Customs Area Controller, CAC, Port Harcourt Area II Command, Comptroller Mohammed Babandede, said, “The achievements recorded in the year 2024 has reaffirmed the command’s commitment to continuous improvement. So the purpose of the event was to review past activities, identify areas of progress, and strategize for a more effective and efficient service.”
Comptroller Babandede, asserted, “Security remains a top priority for the Nigeria Customs Service and the service remains dedicated to fostering collaboration among stakeholders to enhance trade facilitation, revenue generation, and national security.”
High point of the ceremony was a presentation on “Customs Delivery on its Commitment to Efficiency, Security, and Prosperity” by CSC ST Nwosu. The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of awards of recognition to IC Nwonah CC, CAII Dugu MA, and CAIII Musa E of Port Harcourt Area II Command for their commitment to duty.
However, the event served as a platform for dialogue among industry players, reinforcing the importance of synergy in achieving a more efficient customs system in Nigeria.
