The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Onne Area 11 Command on Wednesday welcomed Aliyu Alkali as its new comptroller.

The former comptroller, Muhammad Babandede, handed over to Mr Alkali following his promotion to the rank of Assistant Comptroller General.

Mr Babandede who resumed at Onne command in May 2024 has now been promoted to the rank of an Assistant Comptroller of Customs and subsequently redeployed to Zone A, Lagos Command.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, Mr Babandede thanked officers and sister agencies at the command for support during his tenure as the comptroller.

He noted that the support paid off resulting in high level achievements under his watch.

Mr Babandede said, “2024 was one of the best years concerning revenue generation, my revenue target last year was N618 billion, but we generated N639 billion. For this year 2025, my target is N700 billion, as at the end of August we had already generated N476 billion, this feat is a testament to hard work and dedication of officers and men. So far, more than N1.6 trillion has been generated under my leadership, my job was not limited to revenue generation, it also covered trade facilitation too.

“Commendable milestones in trade promotion also topped our mandate as we confiscated 844 assorted rifles, 112,500 rounds of ammunition and over 77 million bottles of tramadol syrup alongside several illicit, expired medicines and contrabands.’’

Mr Babandede also commended the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the State Security Services for their collaboration.

He also noted that the command during his tenure embarked on several projects for Corporate Socially Responsible to host community, orphanage homes, children as well as persons living with disabilities.

In his response, the new comptroller, Alkali described Onne command as a familiar unit having served in other capacities within maritime space.

He stated, “Onne Area 11 Command is not new to me, I have been a member of the maritime family more than once and I want to assure of a smooth work relationship with all stakeholders. My agenda is clear, and it includes safety, revenue generation and security of the country. I assure you that my doors are open for legitimate engagements.’’

(NAN)