The Customs Area Controller, Oyo/Osun Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller Gambo Iyere Aliyu, has called for an enhanced partnership with the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, to curb smuggling.
Comptroller Aliyu made the call during a courtesy visit to the palace of Oba Ladoja on Sunday, December 7, 2025.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Customs I, Abdulmalik Abiodun Akintola.
Speaking during the visit, the Comptroller expressed gratitude to the Olubadan for the warm hospitality and for the invaluable support the Command continues to receive from the palace and people of Ibadan. He emphasised the importance of traditional leadership in fostering a secure and economically vibrant society.
Comptroller Aliyu noted that the visit was aimed at further strengthening the longstanding partnership between the NCS and the revered traditional institution.
He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to its statutory responsibilities of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling operations, describing Ibadan and its environs as a major commercial hub with significant economic opportunities and national security concerns.
“The Nigeria Customs Service recognizes the vital role traditional rulers play in sustaining peace, order, and community cooperation. We believe that with your continued support and guidance, our Command will remain effective in safeguarding Nigeria’s economic interests,” the CAC stated.
He appealed to Oba Ladoja to continue sensitising the youth and business community on the dangers of smuggling and other illegal activities that undermine the nation’s economic growth while assuring that officers and men of the Command would remain respectful, professional, and responsive to the cultural values of host communities in the discharge of their duties.
Aliyu also acknowledged the existing cooperation between the Command and the palace of the Olubadan, affirming that the synergy has contributed greatly to the success of the Command’s operations in the region.
He called for sustained collaboration to combat evolving smuggling tactics and maintain a secure environment conducive to legitimate trade.
In his response, the Olubadan appreciated Comptroller Aliyu’s visit and urged the Service to continue ensuring the safety of the nation’s border while protecting the country from economic saboteurs.
“The visit concluded with the Customs Area Controller seeking the blessings and prayers of the Olubadan for continuous wisdom, strength, and protection as the Command works tirelessly to serve the nation and remains committed to enhancing stakeholder engagement and promoting economic development for the benefit of Nigeria,” the statement added.
