By Femi Anamelechi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command in a strategic effort to further foster National Security paid a courtesy visit to the Aare Onakakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, and the editorial headquarters of The Guardian newspaper in Lagos. The Customs Area Comptroller of Seme Customs Area ( CAC ) Comptroller Dr. Ben Oramalugo’s ( Ph.D during his visit to the Aare Gani Adams Lagos residence, on Wednesday 2 July 2025, the said the visit is in line with the directive of the Comptroller General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, to build partnerships with key stakeholders and institutions across the country.
CAC Dr. Ben Oramalugo said: “My Comptroller-General instructed me to interact with major stakeholders, and I know the Aare Onakakanfo is one of the most significant figures in Yorubaland and I’m here to seek your support because you’re not only a cultural leader but also a security advocate and human rights champion.” he stated. He highlighted the recent developments at the Seme border, including heightened anti-smuggling operations, revenue generation, trade facilitation, and the seizure of illicit drugs and contraband to the Araa Onakankafo, as he also praised the CGC’s leadership, describing him as “a humane and robust reformer.”
The CGC is a performer, robust in anti-smuggling, humane and accessible. He has provided the command with necessary resources to help carry out our duties effectively, including the provision of 10 Hilux waiting for us in Abuja.“I also appreciate the way the Aare received us. We’re leaving here richer than we came because he has been able to educate us on Yoruba history and practice”, he added. The Araa Onakankafo Gani Adams in his response expressed his satisfaction with the CGC’s reform efforts and the CAC’s performance at Seme. He further pledged his support to the Service and vowed to promote synergy between his institution and the NCS. “This is the first time a Seme Controller is visiting my office. It has encouraged me to support their work. This synergy will go a long way in strengthening security in the South-West and Nigeria at large”.
Comptroller Oramalugo also visited The Guardian newspaper headquarters, where he was warmly received by Weekend Editor Dr. Kabir Garba and other senior editorial staff. There, Comptroller Oramalugo pointed out the transformational leadership of the CGC and requested for the continued support of the Guardian in projecting the agency’s positive strides. In his remarks Dr. Garba expressed appreciation for the visit and assuring the CAC of his support in spotlighting Customs successes.
