By Olufemi Orioye.
They say a golden fish has no hiding place, an apt metaphor for Comptroller Godwin Otunla, the distinguished Customs Area Controller Muritala Muhammed Command of the Nigeria Customs Service.
His unwavering dedication to national economic growth has made him a standout figure since his entry into the service as a cadet officer.
Comptroller Otunla’s journey through various customs formations across Nigeria has been marked by diligence, discipline, and a deep understanding of the service’s operational dynamics. These experiences prepared him for the leadership roles he now commands with distinction.
During his tenure as the Customs Area Controller of Ogun 1 Command, Otunla delivered unprecedented results. Upon assuming office on April 24, 2025, he implemented strategic reforms that dramatically boosted revenue generation.
In May 2025 alone, the command recorded ₦42,279,240 in revenue, up from ₦10,621,250 in April. By the end of his tenure on December 3, 2025, the command had amassed ₦326 billion, a significant leap from ₦213 billion during the same period in 2024.
These gains were the result of meticulous efforts to plug revenue leakages, enforce compliance, and streamline trade documentation processes. His leadership also fostered a culture of professionalism and accountability within the command.
Otunla’s tenure was also defined by his aggressive stance against smuggling. Under his watch, the command recorded 161 seizures, including 3,699 parcels of Cannabis Sativa, 150 sacks of Indian hemp, and three single-barrel long guns.
His tactical anti-smuggling team maintained a constant presence on the roads, making the environment hostile for economic saboteurs.
He also prioritized inter-agency collaboration, working closely with the NDLEA, Nigeria Police, and other security outfits to enhance intelligence sharing and operational synergy.
Understanding the importance of community relations, Comptroller Otunla engaged traditional rulers, youth groups, and local leaders to foster peace and cooperation. His people-oriented approach helped eliminate clashes between Customs officials and border communities, ensuring a harmonious operational environment.
Described by stakeholders as one of the finest minds to lead the Ogun 1 Command, Otunla’s tenure was marked by transparency, open-door leadership, and a commitment to trade facilitation.
His efforts extended beyond Nigeria’s borders, as he strengthened ties with Benin Republic’s Customs authorities to curb cross-border smuggling and enhance legitimate trade.
He also prioritized the welfare of his officers, creating a conducive work environment that boosted morale and productivity.
In his inaugural speech while taking over the mantle of leadership at the Muritala Muhammed International Airport Command, MMIAC, Comptroller Otunla as a diligent officer pledged to continue the legacy of his predecessor by focusing on trade facilitation, revenue generation, and anti-corruption efforts.
The Comptroller assured that he was committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and service delivery
The Muritala Muhammed International Airport Customs Command is classified as one of the most prominent commands under the Nigeria Customs Service, being the gateway to the nation, and it is essential to the nation’s economy.
The deployment of Comptroller Otunla to the Command by the Comptroller General of Customs, CGC, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi is a testament to the fact that he is a reliable, hardworking, dependable, cerebral and responsive officer who can deliver on the agenda of the number one Customs officer in the country.
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