The Nigeria Customs Service has officially appointed Comptroller Godwin Otunla Olugbenga as the new Controller of Ogun 1 Area Command, succeeding Comptroller Mohammed Shuaibu, in a ceremony held at the Command’s conference room in Idiroko, Ogun State.
The event witnessed the presence of the command’s management team, stakeholders, heads of sister security agencies, officers and men of the Service, as well as members of the press, all gathered to witness the symbolic handing over ceremony.
In his inaugural address, Comptroller Otunla expressed deep appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and the management of the Service for entrusting him with the leadership of such a strategic command. He pledged to uphold the values of professionalism, integrity, and national service in the discharge of his duties.
“I am aware of the strategic importance of Ogun 1 Area Command to national economy and border security. As I assume this responsibility, I am committed to consolidating on the gains of my predecessor and pursuing continuous improvement in all aspects of our operations,” he stated.
Comptroller Otunla lauded the achievements of his predecessor, Comptroller Shuaibu, highlighting his role in boosting revenue collection, strengthening anti-smuggling operations, and fostering community engagement. He commended Shuaibu’s leadership, foresight, and legacy, describing it as one worthy of emulation.
Acknowledging the complex and dynamic nature of the Ogun 1 operational environment, Otunla pledged to intensify enforcement, intelligence-led operations, and stakeholder collaboration. He also reaffirmed the command’s core mandate of revenue generation, suppression of smuggling, facilitation of legitimate trade, and national security protection.
“To my officers and men, I urge you to remain committed, disciplined, and professional. Our success depends on our unity of purpose and ethical conduct. Together, we will uphold the standards that define this great Service,” he said.
Otunla further assured traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders of his administration’s open-door policy, promising to strengthen existing partnerships and promote peace, cooperation, and progress.
Sounding a warning to smugglers and economic saboteurs, he stated that the new leadership would not tolerate any act of sabotage. “Our approach will be firm, fair, and intelligence-driven. We shall deploy all lawful means to enforce compliance with extant laws and regulations,” he warned.
The new Comptroller concluded by seeking the continued support, cooperation, and prayers of stakeholders as he begins his tenure, expressing confidence that with collective effort, the Command would reach greater heights.