Comptroller Wale Adenuga has officially assumed office as the new Customs Area Controller of the Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

The command’s spokesperson, CSC Isah Sulaiman, announced the development in a statement issued on Tuesday in Lagos.

Adenuga succeeds Dr. Benedict Oramalugo, who was recently promoted to the rank of Assistant Comptroller General.

In his inaugural address, Adenuga commended his predecessor for his achievements and pledged to build on them, with trade facilitation as his top priority.

“Trade facilitation is my keyword. When stakeholders make proper declarations, their consignments will leave customs control within the shortest possible time. The more we facilitate trade, the more revenue we generate and the less smuggling we’ll have,” he said.

He further assured that the command would deepen collaboration with sister agencies, including the DSS, Nigeria Police, Immigration, NDLEA, Nigerian Military, and NAFDAC, to combat crime and foster a business-friendly environment.

Adenuga also promised to maintain open communication with traditional rulers, the youth of Badagry, and the media, while upholding discipline and professionalism within the command.

“My doors remain open. I will lead from the front to ensure officers remain disciplined and committed to their responsibilities. Together, we will make the Comptroller General of Customs, Mr. Adewale Adeniyi, proud,” he added.

He described Adeniyi, who also serves as the President of the World Customs Organisation Council, as an inspiring leader and pledged to uphold his standards.

In his farewell remarks, outgoing controller Oramalugo described the handover as a moment of “mixed emotions”joy over his promotion but nostalgia for the bonds formed at Seme.

He highlighted his achievements, including sustained suppression of smuggling with major seizures, improved revenue collection, enhanced facilitation of legitimate trade, and stronger inter-agency cooperation.

Oramalugo expressed gratitude to the CGC and NCS management for their support and urged stakeholders to extend full cooperation to his successor.