Teamwork, Discipline, Central to Our Enforcement Mandate —Jonah Charges Customs Marine Operatives

BY FUNMI ALUKO

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Western Marine Command, has declared a renewed and aggressive crackdown on illicit maritime trade along the creeks and waterways bordering Lagos and Ogun states.

​Unveiling his operational strategy, the newly appointed Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Timothy Jonah, identified the command’s jurisdiction as a high-risk corridor for smuggling activities. He stressed that operational success hinges on uncompromising discipline, seamless teamwork, and robust inter-agency collaboration.

​In a statement released on Tuesday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Clarinet Nwosu, Comptroller Jonah outlined a clear blueprint focused on intelligence-led enforcement, stakeholder partnership, and personnel capacity building.

​Disciplined Execution and Stronger Synergy

​Addressing officers and men at the Command’s Headquarters in Lagos, Ag. Comptroller Jonah emphasized that the combat against maritime crime requires a united front and strict adherence to protocol.

​”No officer can succeed in isolation. Excellence in public service depends entirely on our collective effort, mutual cooperation, and a shared sense of responsibility,” Jonah stated.

​As a regimented security organization, he cautioned officers against compromising established administrative channels or bypassing direct supervisors. He charged unit heads and officers in leadership positions to take ownership of their roles through proactive problem-solving and exemplary conduct.

​Beyond internal discipline, Jonah reiterated the Command’s commitment to strengthening operational partnerships with sister agencies, notably the Nigerian Navy and the Marine Police to secure the coastal borders effectively.

​Balancing Robust Enforcement with Trade Facilitation

​Addressing maritime stakeholders and compliant traders, the Acting Controller reassured the public that anti-smuggling operations would not hinder legitimate commerce.

​Aligning the Command’s vision with the standards of the World Customs Organisation (WCO), Jonah noted that targeted enforcement measures serve to protect supply chains rather than disrupt economic flow.

​”Trade facilitation remains a core pillar of our responsibility,” Jonah explained. “Law-abiding traders and legitimate maritime operators will receive our full support. Our enforcement power is directed strictly at those attempting to sabotage the economy through illegal activities.”

​Community Engagement and Personnel Welfare

​Recognizing the critical role of local intelligence, Ag. Comptroller Jonah announced plans to engage host communities, riverine leaders, and traditional rulers in the border areas starting next week. Building trust with coastal communities, he noted, is vital to intelligence gathering and long-term peace along the waterways.

​In line with the agenda of the Comptroller General of Customs, Jonah also prioritized officer welfare, health consciousness, and professional development. He urged personnel to take advantage of available health and sports facilities, maintain physical fitness, and present a polished, confident image that commands respect when dealing with stakeholders and partner agencies.

​He reaffirmed his commitment to building upon the achievements of his predecessor, establishing that discipline, mutual respect, and focused execution will remain the bedrock of the Western Marine Command under his leadership.