Newly appointed Customs Area Controller vows to facilitate legitimate trade

In a seamless transition of leadership, Comptroller Michael Awe has assumed office as the Customs Area Controller (CAC) at the Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA) Command, Ikeja, Lagos, promising to facilitate legitimate trade.

The handover ceremony, which took place at the Command’s headquarters in Ikeja, Lagos, on Wednesday saw Comptroller Awe taking over from his predecessor, Comptroller Yusuf Mohammed.

Addressing the gathered officers and staff during the ceremony, Comptroller Awe emphasized his commitment to facilitating legitimate trade while building upon the achievements of Comptroller Yusuf’s tenure.

He commended the outgoing controller for his versatility and dedication to duty and setting a high standard for the team.

In his charge to the officers, Comptroller Awe urged them to uphold dedication and diligence in their roles, emphasising the importance of understanding the fundamentals of their profession.

His message emphasised the significance of professionalism and efficiency in ensuring the smooth operation of customs procedures at the airport.

However, as he said, peace is very important vis-a-vis revenue, but I assure you I will build on existing structures, and I aim to surpass them.

“To our officers, we need to understand the job very well.

“Please let’s read the books and maintain discipline, and by doing so, the sky will be the limit for everyone,” he said.

Speaking earlier, the outgoing CAC, Compt. Yusuf Mohammed, said the command generated N45.23 billion from importers at the Airports between January to March 2024. According to Compt.Yusuf, in 2023, the command generated N90.43 billion at the end of the year through hard work and due diligence of officers of the command.

The outgoing Comptroller also demanded support from officers of the command for the newly appointed Comptroller to meet and surpass his revenue target.

“I want to thank Almighty God for his numerous mercies, for protection, and the wisdom to steer the wheel of this command. The last one year, seven months haven’t been easy, and to the glory of God, we surmounted the challenges. We were able to meet our 2023 target as we made over N90 billion at the end of the year.”

“Also, the MMIA command is known to be tough, but to the glory of God, we were able to surmount the challenges. Also, to solve problems, one must be a good listener,” Compt. Yusuf stated. Soliciting support for Compt. Awe, Yusuf said, “please, give him the same support you gave me.

“It’s not about Compt. Yusuf but about the Customs service, and now that there is stability in forex, revenue will increase.” He further advised Compt. Awe to have a listening ear, “also, if officers give advice, kindly listen to it and ensure you maintain peace in the environment,” he stated.