By Chinonye Anyatonwu
To checkmate the activities and operations going on at the Government Warehouse in Ikorodu, the Assistant Comptroller General of Customs (ACG) and Zonal Coordinator for Zone ‘A,’ Festus Okun has embarked on a familiarization visit to the facility.
The purpose of the visit was to assess the activities at the warehouse and ensure adherence to professional standards.
The Zonal Coordinator, accompanied by a team of officials, was warmly received by Deputy Comptroller Willy Ukpabio, who is in charge of the facility. Comfort Ukpanah, Comptroller of Special Duties at Zone ‘A’ Headquarters, issued a statement providing details of the visit.
During the tour, Ukpabio guided the Zonal Coordinator and his entourage through the expansive Government Warehouse, offering comprehensive explanations about operational challenges.
He also highlighted the activities of other corporations within the Ikorodu Lighter Terminal, providing valuable insights into their operations.
The visit provided an opportunity for the Zonal Coordinator to witness the efficient warehousing of consignments in accordance with the established purpose of the facility. The importance of proper storage and handling was evident as the team explored different sections of the warehouse.
Addressing the officers present, ACG Okun expressed appreciation for their unwavering commitment and dedication despite the demanding work environment. He commended their efforts and urged them to maintain high ethical and professional standards in the discharge of their duties. Emphasizing the importance of fostering positive relationships with key stakeholders, including regulatory and security agencies, the Zonal Coordinator encouraged open communication and collaboration.
He further stressed the significance of promptly escalating any operational issues beyond the officers’ control to his office, in adherence to service protocols. By doing so, he emphasized the importance of maintaining effective coordination and problem-solving within the customs organization.
ACG Okun also engaged with representatives from the Nigeria Association of Government Approved Freight Forwarders (NAGAFF), the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANALCA), the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). Seeking their support and cooperation, he emphasized the need for all parties to operate within the confines of the law and adhere strictly to the Government Warehouse’s standard operating procedures.
Aware of the prevailing security challenges, ACG Okun urged the officers to remain vigilant and prevent any illegal encroachment by criminals or unauthorized individuals into the facility.
Highlighting the critical nature of maintaining facility security, he emphasized the need for heightened awareness and stringent security measures.
ACG Okun was accompanied on the visit by Comptroller ES Nwankwo, the Zonal Comptroller Enforcement, Comptroller Comfort Ukpanah, the Comptroller Special Duties, and other senior officers from Zone ‘A.’
The evaluation visit conducted by ACG Okun and his team serves as a testament to the commitment of the Nigerian Customs Service to ensure professionalism, efficiency, and compliance with established procedures.
By engaging with officers and stakeholders, the customs organization aims to foster an environment of collaboration and adherence to the highest standards, ultimately enhancing the efficiency of customs operations.
