By Raheem Ibrahim<\/b><\/p>\n
The Customs Area Controller of Apapa Port Command, Comptroller Emmanuel Oshoba, has revealed his command\u2019s readiness to clear up to 200 containers within one hour through the new scanner technology initiative, eliminating unnecessary delays in cargo processing.<\/p>\n
Oshoba disclosed this during an exclusive interview with Ismail Aniemu, where he discussed the command\u2019s new strategies and his plans to enhance trade facilitation at Nigeria\u2019s busiest port.<\/p>\n
According to him, his approach is rooted in leveraging institutional experience and understanding the human dynamics within the port ecosystem.<\/p>\n
Introducing himself, Oshoba said: \u201cMy name is Controller Emmanuel Oluwadare Abisayo Oshoba. I joined the Nigeria Customs Service in 1991 and have held several positions. At the Controller level, I\u2019ve served as Controller, Risk Management, at the Headquarters; Controller, Special Duties; and most recently, Controller, Customs Intelligence Unit (CIU), from where I assumed office here as CAC, Apapa Area Command.\u201d<\/p>\n
When asked about his experience so far at Apapa \u2014 the flagship command of the Nigeria Customs Service and the busiest port in West and Central Africa \u2014 Oshoba expressed gratitude and determination.<\/p>\n
\u201cFirstly, I thank God for my posting here, and I appreciate the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for his trust in appointing me at this crucial time. My background in Customs Intelligence has equipped me with extensive knowledge of operations nationwide \u2014 in revenue, enforcement, and excise,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\n
He added that familiarity with his principal officers, including the DCs of Revenue, CIU, Compliance, Valuation, and others, made it easy for him to settle into the command seamlessly.<\/p>\n
\u201cKnowing my personnel and having prior relationships with stakeholders made integration smooth. Many of the major stakeholders here are people I\u2019ve interacted with during my previous roles,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
On revenue performance, Oshoba credited his predecessors for laying a strong foundation.<\/p>\n
\u201cAlbert Einstein once said he stood on the shoulders of those who came before him. Likewise, my predecessors prepared the ground in terms of revenue generation. All I needed was fine-tuning. I also thank God for the business-friendly environment created by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has simplified trade and eased the movement of goods,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Oshoba noted that his positive reputation from CIU and his officers\u2019 confidence in his leadership have also contributed to improved revenue figures.<\/p>\n
The Apapa Customs boss emphasized collaboration and stakeholder synergy as part of the CGC\u2019s three-point agenda: Consolidation, Collaboration, and Innovation.<\/p>\n
\u201cImmediately I assumed office, I began stakeholder engagements \u2014 meeting traditional rulers like the Oba of Lagos and the Ojora of Ijora, as well as the maritime police, NAGAFF, ANLCA, freight forwarders, and other port users. My previous experience with these groups helped foster trust built on discipline and integrity,\u201d he explained.<\/p>\n
Highlighting new innovations under the CGC\u2019s leadership, Oshoba said Customs is embracing advanced technologies to enhance efficiency.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019ve introduced Advanced Ruling, which allows importers to seek binding clarification on consignments before arrival. We also have the Authorized Economic Operators (AEO) Scheme, which facilitates trade for compliant importers,\u201d he stated.<\/p>\n
He revealed that the command is on the verge of deploying new pass-through scanner machines, expected to process between 150 and 200 containers per hour, significantly reducing inspection time.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis technology will transform business operations at Apapa Port. We expect the CGC, and possibly representatives from the Presidency, to commission the project soon,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n
Oshoba urged port users to prepare for this development by aligning with Customs\u2019 innovation-driven reforms.<\/p>\n
Clarifying export responsibilities, Oshoba explained that Apapa Port now functions mainly as a transit point for export goods.<\/p>\n
\u201cExport operations are now handled by the Lilypond Export Command. Here, we only manage exports passing through to the ports and vessels,\u201d he stated.<\/p>\n
Comptroller Oshoba reaffirmed his commitment to a transparent, technology-driven, and stakeholder-inclusive customs operation.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs the CGC always says, Customs is open for business. Stakeholder engagement remains key because coordinated border management requires synergy. Increased trade volume translates to higher national revenue, supporting infrastructure development across the country,\u201d he concluded.<\/p>\n
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