The Area II Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Port Harcourt has witnessed a change in leadership as Comptroller Aliyu Alkali took over as the 26th Customs Area Controller (CAC ) from the recently promoted Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG) Mohammed Babandede.
The hand over took place on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, according to a statement made available to ThelensNG by the Command’s spokesperson, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Theophilus Duniya on Thursday.
The handover ceremony was attended by the Zonal Coordinator Zone C, ACG Kamal Mohammed, the Customs Area Controller of Port Harcourt I Command, Comptroller Salamatu Atuluku, heads of security and regulatory agencies, terminal operators, freight forwarders, and other key stakeholders.
In his handing over speech, the outgoing Customs Area Controller, ACG Mohammed Babandede, thanked officers of the Command, sister agencies, associations at the Onne Port, and the Port management for their support and cooperation during his tenure.
While noting that the existing synergy led to tremendous achievements under his watch, he requested continued cooperation and synergy with the new Customs Area Controller.
On his part, the Zonal Coordinator, Zone C. ACG Mohammed said, “the outgoing CAC was a distinguished leader, who until recently served as our revered Customs Area Controller, had his tenure nothing short of dedication, vision, and resilience; leaving an indelible mark in the annals of the command’s history. He wished him continued success, greater fulfilment, and Allah’s guidance in all his endeavours.”
The Zonal Coordinator gave the newly deployed Area Controller a warm welcome and reminded him that the task before him is both noble and demanding and expressed confidence in the CAC’s ability to steer the Command to greater heights.
He added: “We implore you to build on the solid legacies left behind by your predecessor, while bringing in fresh ideas and innovations that will further advance the mission of the Service. Together, we look forward to a new chapter of growth, discipline, and excellence under your leadership.”
In his acceptance remark, Comptroller Alkali, pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
He informed stakeholders that his assignment is to ensure compliance with trade regulations, facilitate legitimate trade, collect revenue for the federal government and ensure public safety. He requested all stakeholders to key into Nigeria’s continued development.
He also assured the stakeholders of his commitment to consolidating on the foundation laid by ACG Mohammed Babandede, and called for continuous collaboration to sustain the Command’s quota to trade facilitation, revenue generation, prevention of economic sabotage and ensuring public safety.
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