A new leadership phase has commenced at the Ports Terminal Multiservices Limited (PTML) Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), following the formal assumption of office by Deputy Comptroller Nura Miko as Acting Customs Area Controller.

Miko took over from Comptroller Joseph Anani, who has been redeployed to the Tin Can Island Port Command after steering PTML through eight months of impressive revenue performance and operational improvements.

The handover ceremony, attended by Customs officers, port stakeholders, and representatives of sister agencies, marked a seamless transition of leadership at one of the Service’s most strategic Commands.

In his maiden remarks, Miko pledged to prioritise teamwork, strict adherence to due process, and efficient service delivery. He assured stakeholders of the Command’s continued commitment to integrity, expedited cargo clearance, and the promotion of a business-friendly environment for legitimate trade.

“I am not here simply to occupy an office. I am here to work together with officers, stakeholders, and partner agencies to move the Command forward”, he said, describing PTML as one of the most organised Commands within the Service. He vowed to build on the solid foundation laid by his predecessor.

Miko emphasised the need for enhanced collaboration among government agencies operating within the port, noting that inter-agency synergy is critical to national security, revenue generation, and seamless port operations.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to an open-door policy anchored on transparency, accessibility, fairness, and constructive engagement.

Expressing appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for the confidence reposed in him, Miko pledged to align his leadership with the Service’s policy thrust of innovation, consolidation, and collaboration.

In his valedictory address, Anani described his tenure as both rewarding and impactful, revealing that the Command generated over ₦181 billion in revenue under his watch.

He also highlighted progress made in the implementation of the Unified Customs Management System, known as B’Odogwu.

According to Anani, while the platform was introduced by his predecessor, his administration focused on stabilising the system and addressing initial operational challenges.

“When I assumed office, I came with a clear mandate to help stabilise the Command during its transition into a modernised operational system”, he said. “With the support of officers, sister agencies, and stakeholders, we improved the system and elevated operational standards”.

He further outlined key enforcement achievements, including the interception and handover of illicit drugs, arms, and ammunition to relevant authorities such as the NDLEA, NAFDAC, and the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons.

Anani also noted the introduction of a one-hour clearance process for compliant vehicle imports, a reform that significantly boosted trade efficiency and encouraged voluntary compliance among port users.

He expressed gratitude to officers, stakeholders, and partner agencies for their unwavering support, attributing the Command’s achievements to collective dedication and a shared commitment to national service.

pearl

By Pearl Ngwama

Pearl Ngwama is a prominent Nigerian media professional, an advocate of Nigeria Transport Sector development and Managing Director of JustAlive Communications Ltd, publishers of JustNet News. She is the convener of the annual Nigeria Transport Summit.

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