To further strengthen an existing relationship, the Oyo/Osun Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Joseph Olugbuyi Adelaja, on Tuesday April 15, 2025, led a delegation of senior officers on a courtesy visit to the palace of His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, in the ancient and revered city of Ile-Ife.
During the visit, Adelaja expressed his profound gratitude to the Ooni for the warm reception and the privilege of being received at the historic palace. He noted that the visit was both symbolic and strategic, aimed at strengthening the longstanding cordial relationship between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the respected throne of Oduduwa.
The Comptroller acknowledged the significant role of His Imperial Majesty as a custodian of Yoruba culture, a unifier, and a symbol of peace whose influence continues to inspire and guide not only the Yoruba people but Nigerians at large. He emphasised that the NCS through the Oyo/Osun Area Command, remains committed to its core responsibilities of revenue generation, border security, and trade facilitation.
He appealed for continued cooperation and support from the Ooni and the traditional institutions within the region in order to promote lawful trade, economic stability, and national security.
Adelaja stressed that effective collaboration with traditional authorities is key in curbing smuggling and other unlawful activities that undermine national economic interests.
The Ooni of Ife in his remarks, warmly welcomed the CAC and members of his entourage, commending the NCS for its vital role in the development of the Nigerian economy. He acknowledged the Service’s efforts in generating revenue, facilitating legitimate trade, and combating smuggling activities.
He assured the delegation of his full support and pledged that the traditional institutions under his leadership would continue to cooperate with the NCS 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.