How Apapa Customs Command, Comptroller Olomu Shine with Three Prestigious Awards
The Apapa Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service NCS and its dynamic Area Controller, Comptroller Babatunde Olomu, have been honored with three prestigious awards at the Comptroller General of Customs CAC Award Night, held on Friday, November 29, 2024, in Abuja.
The awards recognized the command’s exceptional contributions to revenue generation, anti-smuggling efforts, and trade facilitation. Notably, Comptroller Olomu emerged as the “Best Controller of the Year” , solidifying his reputation as an exemplary leader dedicated to advancing the operational efficiency of Nigeria’s premier port.
Under Comptroller Olomu’s leadership, the Apapa Command achieved an unprecedented milestone by generating N2 trillion in revenue as of November 20, 2024—a first in the history of the command. This feat was accomplished through strategic measures aimed at curbing revenue leakages and ensuring optimal collection despite challenging trade volumes.
The awards presented to the command at the CGC-hosted ceremony were for:
1. Best Customs Command of the Year
2. Best Command in Revenue Collection
3. Best Controller of the Year
Speaking after receiving the awards, Comptroller Olomu dedicated the accolades to the officers and men of the Apapa Command. He credited the success to teamwork, dedication, and a shared commitment to excellence. “No leader can excel without the support of diligent and cooperative lieutenants,” he said, urging officers and stakeholders to maintain their dedication as the year concludes.
Comptroller Olomu also expressed gratitude to the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for his exemplary leadership and the inspiration he provides to officers nationwide.
In his remarks, Comptroller Olomu emphasized the importance of compliance among port users, noting that adherence to trade guidelines saves time, reduces costs, and enhances the integrity of operations. He praised traders, particularly exporters participating in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Guided Trade Initiative, for their collaboration with the Apapa Command.
Olomu encouraged Nigerian businesses to leverage the ease of doing business initiatives at Apapa Port, highlighting ongoing modernization efforts led by the CGC to simplify trade procedures.
Addressing his officers, Comptroller Olomu described the awards as both a recognition of hard work and a challenge to sustain and exceed the current performance standards. He urged the team to view these honors as a call to action, reinforcing the command’s commitment to professionalism and national service.
The Apapa Command remains focused on maintaining its position as a leader in revenue generation, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling initiatives, setting a benchmark for excellence within the Nigeria Customs Service.
