Oyo/Osun Customs Strengthens Ties with BATN, Traditional Institution to Boost Revenue, Tackle Smuggling
The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has strengthened its partnership with critical stakeholders, including the British American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN) and traditional institution, to enhance revenue and intensify anti-smuggling operations.
The partnership was reinforced when the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Wale Moses Adewole, alongside members of the Command’s management team, paid a courtesy visit to BATN on Thursday, March 5, 2026.
DC Adewole and his delegation were received by the Director of Operations, Mr. Hasnain Ishtiaq.
In his remarks, the Acting CAC expressed appreciation to the management of BATN for the warm reception and commended the company for its significant contribution to revenue generation for the NCS through excise duties, as well as its compliance with extant laws guiding excise operations.
He affirmed that BATN remains one of the key stakeholders of the Service in promoting legitimate trade and enhancing national revenue.
DC Adewole emphasised the importance of sustained cooperation between the Service and the company, soliciting continued support to ensure effective revenue collection in line with the statutory mandate of Customs.
In his response, the Director of Operations of BATN, Mr. Hasnain Ishtiaq, appreciated the Acting CAC and his delegation for the visit and for recognising the organisation as a critical stakeholder of the Service.
Mr. Ishtiaq commended Customs for its dedication to revenue generation, facilitation of legitimate trade, and protection of the nation’s borders, describing them as key responsibilities that contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic development.
He assured the Acting Controller of BATN’s continued cooperation and commitment to full compliance with all regulatory requirements to support national economic growth.
DC Adewole also paid a courtesy visit to the palace of the Alaafin of Oyo, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, where he acknowledged the revered traditional institution as a custodian of the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Yoruba people.
He highlighted the importance of community collaboration in the fight against smuggling and appealed to the Alaafin to use his revered position to sensitise members of the community on the dangers of smuggling and its negative impact on the nation’s economy.
In his response, Oba Owoade, applauded the Service for its commitment to safeguarding the nation’s economy through effective revenue generation and anti-smuggling operations.
The monarch assured the Acting CAC of the palace’s support in sensitising the people of Oyo and its environs on the need to shun smuggling and embrace lawful economic activities that contribute to national development.
The visits highlight the Command‘s commitment to strengthening partnerships with key stakeholders, traditional institutions, and members of the public to enhance revenue generation, promote legitimate trade, and support the nation’s economic prosperity.
