Sango-Ota (Ogun), Feb. 4, 2026 (NAN) The traditional ruler of Ipokia, Oba Adeniyi Olaniyan, has pledged support for the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Area Command, Idiroko, to combat smuggling in the border zone.
This is contained in a statement by Zakari Chado,the Command’s Spokesperson, made available to newsmen on Wednesday in Ota.
Chado quoted Olaniyan as making the pledge when the Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Afeni, paid a courtesy visit to his palace in Ipokia, Ogun, on Tuesday.
The traditional ruler commended the Comptroller-General, NCS, Mr Adewale Adeniyi, for his transformative leadership and commitment to global best practices.
Olaniyan welcomed Afeni, who he described as a “son of the soil,” and pledged the unwavering support and cooperation of the Ipokia Kingdom.
The royal father encouraged the Acting Controller to carry out his responsibilities “without fear or favour,” reaffirming that Ipokia remains a peaceful and law-abiding community committed to supporting the Federal Government’s economic objectives.
During the visit, Afeni expressed his appreciation to the oba for his warm reception and sustained role in maintaining peace and stability within the kingdom.
He further solicited the partnership of the traditional institution in the area in combating smuggling and other economic sabotage.
“Traditional rulers remain critical partners in the suppression of smuggling and the enhancement of national security,” Afeni said.
He reiterated the core mandates of the NCS, which include trade facilitation, revenue generation, and anti-smuggling operations and urged the support of the royal father in these regards.
Afeni also urged the traditional council to continue sensitizing members of the public on the dangers of illicit trade and its negative impact on national security and economic growth.
He further highlighted the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives introduced by the Comptroller-General of Customs, explaining that the programme was aimed at discouraging smuggling and promoting sustainable development within host communities.(NAN)
