My assignment is to ensure compliance, facilitate legitimate trade and collect revenue, Comptroller Alkali tells Onne Port stakeholders

The new Customs Area Controller of Area II Command of Nigeria Customs Service, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Comptroller Aliyu M Alkali, has pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR., informing stakeholders that his assignment is to ensure compliance with trade regulations, facilitate legitimate trade, collect revenue for the federal government and ensure public safety.

Comptroller Aliyu M Alkali made the pledge while taking over as the 26th Customs Area Controller from the recently promoted Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG) Mohammed Babandede, who handed on Wednesday, 10th September 2025.

Alkali requested all stakeholders to key into Nigeria’s continued development while assuring the stakeholders of his commitment to consolidating on the foundation laid by ACG Mohammed Babandede. He called for continuous collaboration to sustain the Command’s quota to trade facilitation, revenue generation, prevention of economic sabotage and ensuring public safety.

While handing over to Alkali,  the immediate past Customs Area Controller, ACG Mohammed Babandede, thanked officers of the Command, sister agencies, associations at the Onne Port, and the Port management for their support and cooperation during his tenure.

He noted that the existing synergy led to tremendous achievements under his watch and requested continued cooperation and synergy with the new Customs Area Controller.

Also speaking at the ceremony, the Zonal Coordinator, Zone C. ACG Kamal Mohammed, said “the outgoing CAC was a distinguished leader, who until recently served as our revered Customs Area Controller, had his tenure nothing short of dedication, vision, and resilience; leaving an indelible mark in the annals of the command’s history. He wished him continued success, greater fulfilment, and Allah’s guidance in all his endeavours.”

He reminded the new Controller that the task before him is both noble and demanding while expressing his confidence in the CAC’s ability to steer the Command to greater heights. He added “We implore you to build on the solid legacies left behind by your predecessor, while bringing in fresh ideas and innovations that will further advance the mission of the Service. Together, we look forward to a new chapter of growth, discipline, and excellence under your leadership.”

The handover ceremony was also attended by the Customs Area Controller of Port Harcourt I Command, Comptroller Salamatu Atuluku, heads of security and regulatory agencies, terminal operators, freight forwarders, and other key stakeholders.