In a remarkable achievement, the Apapa Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), under the leadership of Area Controller Babatunde Olomu, generated a substantial revenue of N2.1 trillion in 2024. This impressive financial feat has been attributed largely to the compliance and cooperation of stakeholders, which underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in the customs sector. The command’s exceptional performance did not go unnoticed, as it was recognized by the headquarters of the NCS during the annual Comptroller-General of Customs Awards Night. There, the Apapa Command received three prestigious awards in the categories of trade facilitation, revenue generation, and overall excellence, highlighting the command’s commitment to its operational goals.
At the heart of the recognition was Comptroller-General of Customs, Wale Adeniyi, who articulated the significance of such awards in his address. He emphasized that the accolades were not merely about financial achievements but rather about exceeding expectations, demonstrating dedication to the nation, and showcasing an exceptional commitment to the interest of the country. Adeniyi’s comments pointed to a broader change in the organizational culture within the NCS. Rather than focusing solely on punitive measures, there is a strategic pivot towards recognizing outstanding service and celebrating excellence, fostering a more motivated and high-performing workforce.
The awards ceremony served to reinforce the belief that positive recognition can inspire better performance. Adeniyi articulated that the shift in culture aligns with the NCS’s foundational beliefs about nurturing an environment that values and promotes high achievement. This perspective is particularly important in an organization such as the Customs Service, which plays a crucial role in national revenue generation and trade management. The acknowledgment of exceptional service is seen not just as an end in itself but as a means of cultivating a workforce that is eager to strive for excellence and deliver superior results.
Babatunde Olomu, who was honored as the Best Customs Area Controller of the Year, shared how his leadership style contributed to the command’s accomplishments. He credited his success to pragmatic leadership, resilience, and an emphasis on inclusive synergies among his team and stakeholders. This recognition reflects Olomu’s belief in the power of collaboration and the importance of acknowledging the contributions of every team member. His gratitude was also directed towards the personnel of the Apapa Command, whose dedication and hard work played a pivotal role in achieving the remarkable revenue figure.
Olomu’s acknowledgment of the dedication of his officers and the significance of stakeholder compliance echoes a core tenet of effective customs operations. He thanked the Comptroller-General and NCS management for their recognition, underscoring the importance of teamwork and collective effort. The recognition of the command’s performance not only serves as a morale booster for the team but also strengthens the partnership between customs officers and external stakeholders, who are crucial for seamless trade operations. By fostering this positive environment, Olomu aims for the command to continue exceeding expectations and setting new benchmarks for success.
Looking ahead, the Customs Area Controller assured the Comptroller-General of his command’s ongoing commitment to maintaining high standards and striving for excellence in all facets of its operations. The assurance of unwavering dedication towards surpassing set goals reflects a proactive approach to customs management, positioning the Apapa Command as a leader in revenue generation and trade facilitation. The collaborative spirit and recognition of hard work at the awards night are expected to propel the command to even greater heights in the future, reinforcing the essential role of customs in promoting economic growth and national development.
