The Area Controller, Oyo/Osun Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller Joseph Olugbuyi Adelaja, on Tuesday, visited the Oni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II at his palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
This was made known in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, Akintola Abiodun Abdulmalik.
Speaking during the visit, Comptroller Adelaja expressed gratitude to the Ooni for the warm reception and the privilege of being received at the historic palace.
He said that the visit was both symbolic and strategic, aimed at strengthening the longstanding cordial relationship between the NCS and the respected throne of Oduduwa.
The Comptroller acknowledged the significant role of Oba Ogunwusi as a custodian of Yoruba culture, unifier, and a symbol of peace whose influence continues to inspire and guide not only the Yoruba people but Nigerians at large.
Adelaja emphasised that the Service, through the Command, remains committed to its core responsibilities of revenue generation, border security, and trade facilitation.
He sought continued cooperation and support from the Ooni and the traditional institutions within the region to promote lawful trade, economic stability, and national security.
The Oyo/Osun Customs boss explained that effective collaboration with traditional authorities is key in curbing smuggling and other unlawful activities that undermine national economic interests.
In his remarks, the Ooni of Ife welcomed the Comptroller Adelaja and members of his entourage, commending the NCS for its vital role in the development of the Nigerian economy.
He affirmed the Service’s efforts in generating revenue, facilitating legitimate trade, and combatting smuggling activities.
The Ooni assured the delegation of his full support and pledged that the traditional institutions under his leadership would continue to cooperate with Customs in the discharge of its statutory duties.
“The visit concluded with a renewed sense of mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to the economic advancement and security of the region and the nation at large,” the statement added.
