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DC Ibrahim, A No-Nonsense Enforcement Guru, Takes Over Leadership at Ogun 1 Customs, Promises Robust Consolidation
Deputy Comptroller AA Ibrahim (L), the New CAC, Ogun 1 Area Command, NCS taking over the leadership reign from DC OO Afeni
Idiroko border was on Wednesday September 30th 2026 held agog with mixed bag of feelings, as it witnessed another major leadership transition which took place at Ogun One Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), one of the nation’s most notoriety smuggling axis.
The transition exercise was from the immediate past Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Olukayode Afeni who was moved to Federal Operations Unit Zone ‘A’ to pave way for the new Customs Sheriff, Deputy Comptroller Abdullahi Ibrahim, a no nonsense and thoroughbred customs officer of high repute, especially in the area of enforcement, as the new Acting Customs Area Controller (CAC).
At the occasion, many that came in solidarity of the erstwhile CAC who they believe touched their lives and changed the operational narrative at the command, as well as those including the outgone Comptroller, who believe in the ability of the newly deployed Acting CAC to consolidate and surpassed the feat on ground.
DC AA Ibrahim (L) CAC, Ogun 1 Area Command, NCS and DC OO Afeni at the Leadership Transition exercise in Idiroko
For us at TransQuest, the new leadership helmsman, is an enforcement maestro whose name is ‘dreaded’ in the camp of smugglers and economic Saboteurs at most enforcement positions he had held sway as Officer in Charge including FOU ‘A’ as O/C Operations.
In his welcome remarks at the conference hall in Idiroko, which have in attendance several relevant Stakeholders which include; Controllers PTML and Enugu/Ebonyi/Anambra Commands, members of the command management team, the traditional rulers, Benin Republic Customs counterpart, various security agencies of Army, Navy, Police, NDLEA, NAFDAC, Customs Brokers, etc, the newly appointed Ag. CAC who expressed profound gratitude to the Almighty Allah for the opportunity and privilege, sincerely appreciated the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD, and his led team for the confidence reposed in me by entrusting me with this important responsibility.
To this, he assured that the responsibility will not be taken for granted, as he pledged to give his very best in upholding the standards of professionalism, integrity, discipline and ethical conduct expected of the Service, while faithfully advancing the mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service in accordance with the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.
DC Ibrahim also acknowledged his predecessor, for his leadership, dedication and accomplishments during his tenure, which he said the Command recorded notable achievements, including improved revenue collection, strengthened anti-smuggling operations, and enhanced engagement with host communities and other stakeholders, and for leaving behind a legacy worth emulating.
However, while fully aware of the unique and demanding operational environment posed by the Ogun 1 Area Command, which is characterised by extensive border areas, vibrant socio-economic activities and an evolving security landscape, as well as the strategic importance of this Command to Nigeria’s economy, border security and national development, Ibrahim stated that his objective is to consolidate the gains already achieved and advancing the policy thrust of the Comptroller-General of Customs.
He noted that particular attention will be given to community relations, operational efficiency, effective enforcement, intelligence-led operations, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), trade facilitation and robust stakeholder collaboration.
Furthermore , he stated that his administration will remain steadfast in the discharge of the core mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service, particularly revenue collection, suppression of smuggling, facilitation of lawful trade, and protection of national security, as he urged officers and men of the Command to remain committed, disciplined, professional and responsive in the discharge of their duties, and that their collective success will depend on our shared commitment to the Service, adherence to ethical standards, teamwork and dedication to excellence.
“Together, we shall sustain a culture of diligence and professionalism and ensure that Ogun 1 Area Command continues to distinguish itself through efficiency, effectiveness and quality service delivery.
“To our traditional rulers, community leaders, host communities, operators within the Igolo-Idiroko border corridor and other valued stakeholders, I wish to assure you that this Command will maintain an open-door policy.
“We shall build upon the strong relationships established by my predecessor and further strengthen our engagements with all relevant stakeholders. Our objective is to promote mutual understanding, peaceful coexistence, legitimate economic activities and sustainable development within our area of responsibility”, the new customs boss said, while hoping that their cooperation and constructive partnership remain essential to the effective discharge of our mandate.
Ibrahim however used the opportunity to send a clear message to economic saboteurs and those who may seek to test his leadership resolve to stay clear, as the command will not tolerate any acts of economic sabotage.
He stressed that his led management shall employ all lawful and legitimate means at their disposal to combat smuggling, protect government revenue and ensure compliance with extant trade laws and regulations.
“Our approach will be firm, fair, professional and intelligence-driven. At the same time, we shall continue to uphold the rights of compliant members of the public and legitimate businesses operating within the law”, he said.
Earlier while presenting his stewardship Scorecard during his farewell address, DC Afeni stated that he has absolute confidence in the leadership capacity, professionalism, and experience of the Incoming Area Controller, DC AA Ibrahim. “You are inheriting a Command built on discipline, cooperation, and commitment to excellence. I am convinced that under your leadership, Ogun I Area Command will attain even greater heights. “I assure you of my continued support and goodwill as you take over this noble responsibility”, he said.
He however urged all officers and men to extend the same level of cooperation and commitment to his successor, DC A Ibrahim
