In a renewed drive to enhance operational efficiency and promote economic growth, the Customs Area Controller of Apapa Command, Comptroller Babajide Kanu, has reiterated the importance of strong collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and key industry stakeholders.
Speaking during a strategic engagement session held at the Apapa Customs Command headquarters, Compt. Kanu emphasized that a united front between the Customs Service and private sector actors is critical to achieving seamless port operations and boosting trade facilitation.
He noted that the evolving dynamics of international trade demand transparency, cooperation, and proactive policy implementation. “We are here to foster synergy that goes beyond routine operations. It is about building partnerships anchored on trust, efficiency, and the shared goal of national development,” he said.
The Customs boss outlined his leadership vision, which includes reinforcing trade compliance, adopting technology-driven clearance processes, and reducing bottlenecks in cargo handling.
Kanu assured stakeholders of his readiness to deepen engagements that will tackle challenges such as congestion, valuation disputes, and delays at the ports. He also highlighted the Apapa Command’s determination to exceed its revenue targets without compromising integrity and service standards.
In response, representatives from freight forwarding associations, terminal operators, and licensed customs agents pledged their support for the new agenda. They commended Compt. Kanu’s inclusive leadership style and expressed optimism about improved service delivery under his watch.
This meeting marks a pivotal step in repositioning the Apapa Command as a model of excellence, in line with the broader goals of the Nigeria Customs Service under the leadership of Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi.
As Nigeria seeks to maximize the benefits of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and other international trade agreements, sustained collaboration between customs authorities and industry stakeholders is seen as key to unlocking trade potentials and driving economic transformation.
