The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Tin-Can Island Port Command (TCIPC), and the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Beecroft have renewed their commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime borders while ensuring seamless trade operations.
This reaffirmation was made during a courtesy visit on Thursday, March 27, 2025, by the newly appointed Commander of NNS Beecroft, Commodore Paul Nimmyel, to the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Frank Onyeka, at the TCIPC headquarters.
Welcoming the Navy Commander, Comptroller Onyeka underscored the critical role of inter-agency collaboration in balancing national security and trade facilitation. He emphasized that while revenue generation and anti-smuggling efforts remain key mandates of the NCS, national security cannot be compromised.
“Beyond revenue generation, combatting smuggling, and facilitating trade, we put national interest into perspective. There is a thin line between national interest and trade facilitation. We will facilitate trade, but we will not de-emphasize national security, and that’s where you people come in,” Onyeka stated.
Reiterating the NCS’s commitment to working closely with the Nigerian Navy, he assured that the agency would always welcome collaborative efforts to enhance maritime security.
Commodore Nimmyel, who recently assumed command at NNS Beecroft, reaffirmed his dedication to securing Nigeria’s maritime corridors, particularly around Lagos, a key economic hub.
“My mandate is to ensure peace and security in this area so that economic activities can thrive. Our partners from across the seas should experience seamless trade, free from security threats. Any form of assistance that the base can provide to make your work easier, we are just around the corner,” he stated.
He also commended the NCS for its sustained efforts in tackling smuggling and called for continued cooperation between both agencies.
Meanwhile, the TCIPC hosted a special Ramadan dinner to promote unity among stakeholders. Comptroller Onyeka highlighted Ramadan as a period of reflection, self-discipline, and compassion, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and mutual understanding in fostering cooperation within the maritime sector.
The event brought together key players in the industry, further reinforcing the command’s commitment to collaboration and inclusivity.