The Customs Area Controller of Tin Can Island Port Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, has emphasized the need for thorough examination of consignments before their release from the port, stressing that national security must remain a top priority in customs operations.
Speaking during a parade on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, Comptroller Onyeka urged officers to conduct diligent inspections to minimize unnecessary stop-and-search actions after cargo departure. He also commended officers for their dedication, particularly in achieving commendable revenue performance in January, and announced plans for capacity-building workshops to enhance the understanding of customs processes among officers and stakeholders.
The Comptroller cautioned officers to maintain professionalism in their interactions with the trading public, warning that any reports of misconduct would not be tolerated.
In a separate engagement on Wednesday, Comptroller Onyeka received the newly deployed Director of State Services, Mr. S.M. Kayode, and the Tin Can Island Port Command Chairman of the Africa Association of Professional Freight Forwarders and Logistics of Nigeria (APFFLON), Comrade Akeem Ayibojo, along with other members of the association. The meetings, held separately, reinforced commitments to collaborative efforts in ensuring smooth port operations and preventing the entry of harmful products.
During his discussion with APFFLON, Comptroller Onyeka reiterated the Command’s alignment with the three core policies of the Comptroller General of Customs—collaboration, consolidation, and innovation—towards fostering a safe and efficient working environment. He also highlighted the upcoming launch of the B’Odogwu clearance system by Comptroller General Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, which he said would enhance customs operations.
APFFLON Chairman, Comrade Akeem Ayibojo, expressed the association’s willingness to fully collaborate with the Customs Area Controller, acknowledging the benefits of the newly introduced National Single Window system. He also raised concerns about operational challenges faced by freight forwarders, seeking favourable responses from the Command.
In response, Comptroller Onyeka assured APFFLON members of continued cooperation and recalled his past positive engagements with the association while serving as Deputy Comptroller of Valuation at the Command. He encouraged stakeholders to report any procedural lapses and reassured them that multiple alert issues had been addressed, ensuring smoother cargo clearance processes.
On the recurring issue of network downtime affecting customs operations, Comptroller Onyeka acknowledged the challenge but noted that it was a general problem beyond the Command’s direct control. He urged stakeholders to continue pushing for lasting solutions while assuring them of the Command’s commitment to efficiency.
Stakeholders at the meeting lauded Comptroller Onyeka’s leadership and urged him to maintain his open-door policy, ensuring that officers remain professional in their dealings with stakeholders. They also requested fair treatment in line with what is accorded to other industry players.
The engagements reaffirmed the Customs Command’s commitment to collaboration, efficiency, and enhanced service delivery at Tin Can Island Port.