The Eastern Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has announced the appointment of Deputy Comptroller Esien Etim Esiet as the Acting Comptroller of the Command, as part of efforts to consolidate the policy thrust of the Comptroller-General of Customs.
According to a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, Joshua Iliya, the new Acting Comptroller has commenced a familiarisation tour of operational facilities and stakeholder engagements across the region to strengthen maritime security and trade facilitation.
The first phase of the tour covered operational outstations in Rivers, Akwa Ibom and Cross River States, including Abonnema and Onne outstations in Port Harcourt, the Oron Outstation in Akwa Ibom State, and the Calabar Outstation in Cross River State.
During the visits, Deputy Comptroller Esiet inspected operational equipment and assessed personnel readiness, stressing the importance of collaboration in tackling smuggling and maritime crimes.
“Sustained synergy is our greatest weapon in combating smuggling and maritime crimes. A united front is non-negotiable for national security,” he stated.
As part of efforts to promote a “one service” approach, the Acting Comptroller held strategic meetings with Customs Area Controllers of Port Harcourt II Area Command (Onne), the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone, and the Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone/Akwa Ibom Area Command.
He also paid courtesy visits to key security agencies, including the Commander of NNS Pathfinder, the Commanding Officer of the Navy Forward Operating Base, Ibaka, the Flag Officer Commanding of the Eastern Naval Command, and the Commissioner of Police in Cross River State, aimed at strengthening inter-agency collaboration.
Recognising the role of host communities in maritime security operations, Deputy Comptroller Esiet visited traditional rulers, including His Royal Highness, Nyemoni Iwo Ama of Abonnema Wharf Community, and His Royal Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, the Obong of Calabar.
The Command noted that the visits underscore its commitment to maintaining strong relationships with host communities and stakeholders.
The Acting Comptroller also met with the management of SeWa West Africa Ltd to discuss patrol boat maintenance and specialised training for officers to enhance operational efficiency and maritime surveillance.
Deputy Comptroller Esiet reaffirmed that his administration would align strictly with the policy direction of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
According to the statement, his leadership will focus on strengthening maritime enforcement protocols, improving officer welfare and operational readiness, while sustaining an open-door policy with licensed agents and other stakeholders.
The Eastern Marine Command is a specialised unit of the Nigeria Customs Service responsible for patrolling the nation’s eastern waterways, combating smuggling, and securing maritime trade activities.
Comment here