By Newscount
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS)’s Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone (FTZ) Command has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inter-agency cooperation with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) to boost security, trade facilitation, and intelligence sharing within the Free Trade Zone. This was highlighted during a courtesy visit by Comptroller Emeka Eneh, Comptroller of Immigration, Rivers Marine Command, Onne, to Comptroller Aliyu Alkali, Customs Area Controller of the Oil and Gas FTZ Command, on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at the Command’s headquarters in Onne, Rivers State.According to a press statement signed by Assistant Superintendent of Customs II (ASCII) Paul Gimba, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, the meeting underscored the longstanding partnership between Customs and Immigration, emphasizing their shared responsibility in facilitating trade, securing Nigeria’s borders, and ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks. Comptroller Alkali welcomed his guest, reaffirming Customs’ commitment to fostering synergy between the two agencies, particularly in monitoring the movement of expatriates, goods, and vessels within the FTZ.”The Nigeria Customs Service has always maintained a strong working relationship with the Nigeria Immigration Service, particularly within the maritime sector. Given the strategic importance of the Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone to Nigeria’s economy, it is essential that we continue to collaborate effectively to ensure smooth and secure trade operations,” said Comptroller Alkali.
He further assured the visiting Immigration Comptroller of Customs’ readiness to enhance intelligence sharing, joint operations, and capacity building. He acknowledged that a stronger partnership would significantly strengthen national security and trade facilitation.
Reacting, Comptroller Eneh commended the NCS for its crucial role in securing the Free Trade Zone and facilitating legitimate trade. Eneh stressed the importance of closer ties between both agencies, citing their proximity and the need for enhanced synergy in handling immigration and customs-related activities within the FTZ.”Our collaboration is vital in maintaining security and efficiency within the Free Trade Zone. Strengthening our relationship will further enhance our ability to monitor and regulate movements within this critical economic hub,” he noted.
The visit concluded with both comptrollers reaffirming their commitment to reinforcing cooperation to enhance efficiency and security measures, creating a more conducive environment for trade and investment in the Free Trade Zone.
