Western Marine Command Lauded for Strengthening Maritime Security and Combating Smuggling

Assistant Comptroller-General Charles Orbih, Zonal Coordinator for Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Zone A, has praised the Western Marine Command for its outstanding efforts in safeguarding Nigeria’s maritime borders and curbing smuggling activities.

During a recent working visit, ACG Orbih commended the Command’s contributions to national security and economic integrity, highlighting their recent high-value seizures and infrastructure upgrades as key indicators of operational excellence.

ACG Orbih commended the Command’s pivotal role in advancing the goals of the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly in securing Nigeria’s maritime borders against smuggling and other transnational crimes.

He highlighted the Command’s impressive seizures in recent weeks, with contraband items worth over ₦352 million in Duty Paid Value.

The Zonal Coordinator revealed that NCS collected a record-breaking ₦1.75 trillion in revenue in the first quarter of 2025, with Zone A contributing nearly 80% of the total.

He attributed this achievement to increased operational efficiency and strategic reforms under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.

ACG Orbih highlighted key reforms, including the introduction of the Advance Ruling System, the launch of the Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) program, and the deployment of the indigenous Unified Customs Management System known as the B’Odogwu Platform.

He commended the Western Marine Command for its infrastructural improvements, including the construction of a befitting quarter guard and the removal of shanties around the Command’s vicinity.

The Coordinator reminded officers of the evolving security threats facing the nation and urged continued collaboration with sister agencies.

He emphasized the role of the public in national security, calling on citizens to report any suspicious activities related to smuggling or illegal trade within the waterways.