Nigeria Customs Intensifies Onslaught Against Smugglers Under Comptroller Afeni*

 By Lod Onyeji

In a resolute move to curb economic sabotage, Comptroller OO Afeni, Acting Area Controller of Ogun 1 Command, Nigeria Customs Service, has vowed to relentlessly pursue smugglers and economic saboteurs operating within the region. During a recent courtesy visit by the Congress of Nigerian Maritime Media Practitioners (CONMMEP), Afeni emphasized his team's unwavering commitment to intensifying anti-smuggling operations.

This has resulted in the Nigeria Customs is making significant strides in combating smuggling, particularly under the leadership of Comptroller OO Afeni. His strategies include intelligence-driven operations, community engagement, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

In less than two months since assuming office, Afeni's team has achieved significant milestones, including handing over 7,000 parcels of cannabis to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). This impressive feat demonstrates the Command's dedication to combating narcotics trafficking and protecting national security

Afeni also highlighted the Command's Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR), providing essential facilities such as education and healthcare to local communities. He stressed the importance of collaboration with the maritime media, urging journalists to engage in genuine and verifiable reporting, while acknowledging the value of constructive criticism.

The President of CONMMEP, Comrade Udo Onyeka, expressed confidence in Afeni's leadership, praising his professionalism and administrative prowess. Former President of CONMMEP, Alhaji Tunde Umar-Daniah, echoed this sentiment, expressing optimism that Afeni would exceed expectations in his role. 

Nigeria Customs is making significant strides in combating smuggling, particularly under the leadership of Comptroller OO Afeni. His strategies include intelligence-driven operations, community engagement, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. For instance, Afeni's team has seized over 7,000 parcels of cannabis and intercepted numerous smuggling attempts along the Idiroko and Imeko axes.

Some key efforts include:

- *Intelligence-Driven Operations*: Afeni's team has intensified surveillance and enforcement, forcing smugglers to retreat beyond the jurisdiction of the Command.

- *Community Engagement*: Afeni has pledged constant engagement with communities and traditional institutions to educate them on the dangers of smuggling.

- *Corporate Social Responsibility*: The Command has provided educational and healthcare facilities in some communities, fostering cooperation and reducing the allure of smuggling.

Comptroller Afeni's leadership style is firm yet courteous, uncompromising yet professional, making Ogun I Command a model for the Nigeria Customs Service.