The new Controller for Ogun 1 Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Godwin Otunla, has vowed to deploy all lawful means to combat smuggling and other nefarious activities around the country’s border the state while also enforcing compliance with the nation’s trade laws.

Otunla stated this on Thursday while taking over the leadership of the command from Muhammad Shuaibu, at a ceremony held at the command’s headquarters, Idiroko, Ipokia Local Government area of the state.

He said “This new administration under my watch will not tolerate any form of economic sabotage. We shall deploy all lawful means to combat smuggling and enforce compliance with extant trade laws and regulations”

Otunla pledged to uphold the core values of professionalism, integrity, and national service in his new role.

Recognizing the unique operational challenges of the command due to its strategic border location and socio-economic dynamics, Otunla promised to consolidate the gains made on trade facilitation and anti-smuggling operations in the command.

He promised to pursue improvements in operational efficiency, enforcement, intelligence-led operations, and stakeholder collaboration to enhance the customs operations in the state

Otunla appreciated the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, and the management team for the confidence reposed in him pledging to do his very best in line with the core mandate of the customs service.

He lauded his predecessor, Shuaibu for laying a solid foundation through commendable achievements, particularly in revenue generation, anti-smuggling efforts, and improved community engagement.

Otunla also sought the cooperation of the officers at the command as well as all the traditional rulers and community leaders in the environs, saying that the task of safeguarding the country’s borders requires the support of all stakeholders.

Earlier in his handing-over remarks, Shuaibu highlighted key achievements of his three-month tenure including the generation of N43,412,794.00 revenue between January and April 2025, seizure of 161 prohibited items, including 3,699 parcels of cannabis sativa, 150 sacks of Indian hemp, three single-barrel long guns, four packets of 100 cartridges, and 7 million CFA.

He thanked the Comptroller-General, Adeniyi, for the opportunity to serve while appreciating the officers and men of the Command for their unwavering support and dedication.

Shuaibu also called on all officers to extend full cooperation to his successor.