The Acting Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Area Command, Deputy Comptroller (DC) Oladapo Afeni, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) commitment to sustaining a cordial relationship with the media, saying the Service and journalists will continue to remain partners in the pursuit of national development.
DC Afeni made the remark when he received the executive members of the Maritime Correspondents’ Organisation of Nigeria (MARCON) on a courtesy visit to the Command in Idiroko on Monday.
The Acting Area Controller said the existing synergy between the Customs and the media should be nurtured and strengthened, noting that the partnership has continued to enhance public understanding of the Service’s activities and reforms.
He also appealed to journalists to ensure fair, balanced and objective reportage of the activities of the NCS, stressing that responsible journalism would further support the Service’s efforts in border security, trade facilitation, revenue generation and national economic development.
Earlier, the President of MARCON, Ismail Aniemu, said the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between the association and the Service, particularly the Ogun I Area Command.
Aniemu commended the Command for its achievements in border security and anti-smuggling operations, especially its ability to carry out enforcement activities and seizures without recording casualties.
He also praised the Command for effectively balancing anti-smuggling enforcement with revenue generation, robust stakeholder engagement and trade facilitation, describing the achievements as evidence of the Command’s commitment to supporting the growth of the Nigerian economy.
He expressed MARCON’s readiness to continue working with the Nigeria Customs Service in promoting informed and balanced reportage of developments in the maritime and border management sectors.
