Customs Strengthens Ties with Traditional Rulers in Oyo/Osun States

Customs Strengthens Ties with Traditional Rulers in Oyo/Osun States 

ZAINAB JUNAID 

In line with the directive of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, that all Commands must continue to strengthen relationships with host Communities, promote mutual understanding, cooperation and mitigate conflict between members of respective communities and Officers of Commands, Customs Area Controller of Oyo/Osun Area Command, Dr. Ben Oramalugo has embarked on a familiarization visit to Outstations in Border towns/areas of Oyo and Osun States. 

He paid homage to the Soun of Ogbomoso land, the Okere of Saki land both in Oyo State; the Ataoja of Osogbo land, the Ogunsua of Modakeke land and the Ooni of Ife land all in Osun State.  

While engaging the traditional rulers on issues related to trade facilitation, revenue generation, community development, suppression of smuggling and promotion of lawful trade practices, the Comptroller emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and Traditional Rulers for effective implementation of Federal Government policies and regulations which are to be enforced by the Command.

He expressed gratitude for the warmth reception received and noted that the engagement is an avenue for respective Traditional Rulers to share their invaluable insights and experiences regarding Custom which affect their respective communities. 

"This visit aimed at promoting harmonious relationship between Nigeria Customs Service and the Citizens it serves," he said. 

Recognizing the vital role of traditional rulers as custodians of culture and leaders of their respective community, Comptroller Oramalugo, stated that the visit also aimed at increasing understanding, creating awareness about Customs operations, regulations and the importance of compliance amongst the respective host communities.  

He underscored the commitment of the Service to promote trade facilitation, combat smuggling of contraband items, arms and ammunitions and hard drugs and enhance revenue generation through the enforcement of laws and regulations. 

He further sought their support in achieving his objectives and expressed optimism for future collaboration and partnership with the respective traditional Rulers in Oyo and Osun states.

The Traditional Rulers on their parts, expressed appreciation for the Controller's visit and opportunity given to engage directly with the Area Controller and his management team. 

They acknowledged the significance of Customs operations in maintaining national security, economic stability and welfare of their communities, and assured the Controller and his entourage of their commitment to strengthen collaboration with the Command in order to promote legal trade activities and combat illicit trade practices within their respective domains.