By Tunde Ojudun The PTML Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has a new Acting Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Nura Ibrahim Miko, who officially assumed leadership from Comptroller Joseph Anani on Monday.
In his inaugural address to officers, stakeholders, and sister agencies, Miko pledged to anchor his administration on transparency, teamwork, and professionalism. He stressed that integrity will be non-negotiable under his watch, trade facilitation will remain a priority, and due process will be strictly observed.
Describing PTML as a highly organized command with a strong operational structure, Miko promised to consolidate on the achievements of his predecessor while driving greater efficiency in service delivery. He emphasized collaboration across the port ecosystem, noting that effective port management depends on synergy among Customs, government agencies, freight forwarders, and terminal operators.
Miko assured stakeholders of accessibility, transparency, and a level playing field, aligning his vision with the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Ph.D, MFR, whose policy pillars of Innovation, Consolidation, and Collaboration continue to shape reforms across the Service.
Outgoing Controller Anani, reflecting on his eight-month tenure, described his time at PTML as an “extraordinary privilege.” He highlighted the command’s revenue performance of over ₦181 billion, underscoring PTML’s strategic importance in Nigeria’s maritime trade.
Anani also pointed to key milestones, including the consolidation of the Unified Customs Management System (UCMS), popularly known as B’Odogwu, which modernized Customs processes and improved efficiency. Enforcement successes during his tenure included the interception and handover of illicit drugs, arms, and ammunition to agencies such as NDLEA, NAFDAC, and the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons.
One of the most celebrated innovations was the introduction of a one-hour clearance process for compliant vehicle imports, a reform widely praised by stakeholders for reducing delays and boosting trade efficiency.
Anani credited these achievements to the dedication of officers and stakeholders who embraced reforms and compliance-driven operations, leaving behind a strengthened command for his successor to build upon.
