By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Nigeria Customs Service, Ibeto Seaport and Terminals Command, Port Harcourt, has reaffirmed the importance of inter-agency collaboration in securing the nation’s maritime corridor following a strategic visit by the Commissioner of Police, Eastern Port Police Command, CP Shuaibu Audu.
The visit, according to a statement signed by the Command Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs Tangwa Emmanuel, took place at the Command headquarters, and was aimed at strengthening existing cooperation between the Service and the Nigeria Police Force as well as enhancing operational effectiveness within the port environment.
Receiving the police delegation, the Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Usman Yahaya, described the visit as timely and significant, noting that collaboration among security agencies remains vital to national security and efficient port operations.
Comptroller Yahaya, however, assured the Commissioner of Police of the Command’s readiness to maintain close working relations with the Eastern Port Police Command.
“This visit is timely and highly appreciated. It reflects the importance of sustained cooperation among agencies entrusted with the security of our nation and the protection of critical economic assets.”
“We are fully committed to working with the new Commissioner of Police and giving all necessary support towards the successful discharge of his responsibilities,” the statement read
He said strong partnership between Customs and the Police has continued to play a key role in maintaining order, facilitating legitimate trade and protecting the port system from criminal activities.
“Customs and the Police share common responsibilities in safeguarding the port environment. Synergy remains the cornerstone for achieving our collective mandate,” the statement read
The Customs Area Controller also briefed the visiting Commissioner on the history and operational relevance of the Ibeto Seaport and Terminals Command, while reaffirming the Command’s commitment to strengthening port security.
Earlier, the Commissioner of Police, CP Shuaibu Audu, said the visit formed part of efforts to deepen the already existing relationship between both agencies.
“My presence here today is to reinforce the cordial relationship between the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Customs Service. No organisation can function effectively in isolation.”
He stressed the need for continuous cooperation among security institutions, especially within the nation’s ports, which he described as critical to economic growth and national stability.
“Synergy among security agencies is essential to addressing emerging threats. Our ports are strategic national assets, and we must work together to keep them secure,” he said.
Audu also appealed for sustained support from the Customs leadership and officers of the Command in advancing shared security objectives.
The meeting ended with both senior officers reaffirming their commitment to sustaining the partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Nigeria Police Force at the Ibeto Seaport Command.
