The Area Controller of the Tincan Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller JA Anani, has reaffirmed his commitment to transparency, stakeholder engagement, and enhanced operational efficiency as he held his maiden interactive session with members of the press on Wednesday.
Addressing journalists at the Command headquarters, Comptroller Anani described the media as a strategic partner in advancing the Customs Service’s mandate, emphasizing that the success of port operations depends significantly on accurate and professional reportage.
He noted that since assuming office, he has prioritized engagement with key stakeholders in the maritime industry, stressing that the media occupies a critical position in fostering public understanding, promoting accountability, and encouraging compliance with Customs regulations.
“The press will play a vital role in this administration. You will be fully carried along in our policies, operations, reforms, and achievements,” Anani stated, assuring journalists of timely access to accurate information and greater collaboration with the Command.
In a move aimed at strengthening the Customs-media relationship, the Area Controller disclosed plans to support journalists through training programmes, sensitization workshops, and other capacity-building initiatives designed to deepen understanding of Customs operations and improve the quality of reportage.
While acknowledging the indispensable role of the media, Anani urged journalists to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, warning against misinformation and inaccurate reporting capable of undermining public trust and institutional objectives.
The Customs boss further highlighted the Command’s commitment to leveraging ongoing modernization initiatives within the Nigeria Customs Service, including technology-driven solutions that enhance trade facilitation, operational efficiency, and service delivery at the nation’s second-largest port.
According to him, strict compliance with the provisions of the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 will remain a cornerstone of the Command’s operations, with officers expected to enforce regulations fairly, firmly, and professionally.
On revenue generation, Comptroller Anani revealed that the Command is currently recording commendable performance, attributing the achievement to improved compliance, dedicated personnel, and enhanced operational processes.
He expressed confidence that the Command would consolidate on existing gains and surpass previous milestones.
The Area Controller also paid tribute to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, for the confidence reposed in him through his appointment, describing the CGC’s leadership as instrumental to the ongoing reforms and transformation within the Service.
As part of efforts to institutionalize engagement with journalists, Anani announced that the Command’s Public Relations Unit would maintain continuous interaction with the media, ensuring prompt dissemination of information and improved access to developments within the Command.
He reiterated that the Tincan Island Port Command remains committed to collaboration, transparency, trade facilitation, and revenue generation, expressing optimism that stronger media partnerships would contribute significantly to national economic growth and the achievement of Customs objectives.
