The Maritime Police Command and the Apapa Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have strengthened their partnership as part of efforts to enhance port security.
The collaboration was reinforced when the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Maritime Police Command, AIG Okunade Ronke Nurat, hosted the newly appointed Customs Area Controller of the Apapa Area Command, Comptroller Murtala Muazu, at the Force Headquarters Annex, Kam Salem House, Lagos.
The visit provided an opportunity for both agencies to reaffirm their commitment to effective collaboration within the port environment.
Speaking during the visit, Comptroller Muazu acknowledged the critical role of the Nigeria Police Force in protecting lives and property, particularly within the port.
He noted that, upon assuming office, he considered it necessary to visit the Maritime Police Command and pledge his solidarity with the Command.
Muazu emphasised the importance of sustaining the existing partnership between both agencies in maintaining a secure and orderly port environment that supports legitimate business activities and facilitates trade.
In her remarks, AIG Nurat congratulated Comptroller Muazu on his appointment and assured him of the full support and cooperation of the Maritime Police Command.
She reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with sister agencies, in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, towards enhanced security, effective policing, and national development.
AIG Nurat also highlighted the importance of continuous intelligence sharing and effective support for police investigations, particularly given the strategic position of the Nigeria Customs Service as a key agency within the port.
She stressed that the timely exchange of relevant intelligence and close operational cooperation between both agencies would contribute significantly to tackling criminality, safeguarding national economic interests, and ensuring a secure environment for legitimate trade.
The visit culminated in the exchange of plaques and a group photograph, followed by a tour of the Police Mini Museum at the Force Headquarters Annex, Kam Salem House.
The engagement further reinforced the shared commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigeria Police Force to deepening inter-agency cooperation, strengthening port security, and promoting trade facilitation.
