The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Tincan Island Port Command, Comptroller Frank Onyeka, has commended the media for its continued support in driving transparency, stakeholder engagement, and public trust in port operations, while calling for deeper collaboration in advancing the objectives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
Speaking during a media parley at the Command over the weekend, Comptroller Onyeka emphasised the critical role of the press in Customs’ operations.
He stated, “There is nothing one can do successfully in this business without the utmost media collaboration. A good number of you have given me more than sufficient support. Your reportage has been very critical, and your engagement and thought-provoking.”
Reaffirming his commitment to continuity, Onyeka noted that his administration was built on the solid foundation laid by his predecessor, particularly in engaging the media, and called for more support.
The Area Controller also spoke on B’Odogwu, the Unified Customs Management Service (UCMS), describing it as a wholly Indigenous innovation developed without international interference. “I want to tell you, with all sense of responsibility and to the Glory of God, that it has been an interesting exercise. Once issues come, we make provisions for them, we make progress, and we move.”
Media practitioners at the event lauded the CAC for its open-door policy, consistent feedback mechanisms, and regular stakeholder consultations.
Veteran maritime journalist and Senior Correspondent, Asu Beks, commended the CAC’s leadership style, encouraging younger Customs officers to emulate his approach.
He urged maritime reporters to cooperate fully in the discharge of his duties.
The engagement concluded with a renewed understanding of the shared responsibility between Customs and the media in facilitating trade, curbing illegalities, and positively projecting the nation’s image.
