Inter-agency ties important for legitimate trade on Nigeria’s waterways – Comptroller Jaja

The Customs Area Controller of Eastern Marine Command, Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Anderson Jaja, has emphasised the importance of continuous inter-agency collaboration to promote legitimate trade and curb smuggling along the nation’s waterways.

Comptroller Anderson Jaja noted that the Customs Service remains committed to enhancing maritime security and intelligence-sharing mechanisms across operational areas.

Comptroller Jaja stated this during his recent visit to the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base (FOB), Ibaka, Akwa Ibom State, and was received by the Commanding Officer, Captain Aliyu Abdullahi.

Jaja commended the Navy for its sustained efforts in protecting the nation’s maritime borders.

In his response, Captain Abdullahi assured the CAC of the Navy’s readiness to strengthen existing collaboration with the NCS in achieving national security objectives within the Ibaka axis.

In continuation of the visit, Comptroller Jaja at the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder Base, Port Harcourt, reiterated the need for sustained synergy in maritime surveillance, logistics support, and tactical training of EMC officers to boost operational efficiency in combating piracy and smuggling activities.

Welcoming Jaja to Pathfinder Base, the Base Commander, Commodore Cajetan Aniaku, reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to continued inter-agency cooperation.

During his visit to His Majesty, King Ateke Tom, Amanayabo of Okochiri Kingdom in Okrika, Rivers State, Jaja commended His Majesty for his continuous support towards maintaining peace and security within his domain.

Comptroller Jaja however sought the royal father’s collaboration in strengthening the operational effectiveness of the Eastern Marine Command, particularly in areas of intelligence sharing and community partnership.