Afeni Outlines Strategic Priorities as New Ogun I Area Controller of Customs
The newly appointed Customs Area Controller of the Ogun I Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Olukayode Oladapo Afeni, has unveiled his operational roadmap for the command, pledging strengthened border security, improved interagency cooperation and enhanced personnel welfare.
Afeni, who assumed office last Thursday after taking over from Comptroller Godwin Otunla, addressed officers and stakeholders at the Command Headquarters in Idiroko, where he affirmed his commitment to aligning the command’s activities with the policy direction of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi.
Setting the tone for his administration, Afeni said his priorities would include intensifying intelligence-led operations, curbing smuggling, and fostering stronger collaboration with security agencies and border communities. He also assured stakeholders of improved operational efficiency and sustained trade facilitation.
“It is a great honour to assume the leadership of Ogun I. I am fully aware of the unique operational environment of the command, with its vast borders. I am also aware of the strategic importance of this command to the national economy and border security,” he said.
“I assure you that we will consolidate the gains recorded by my predecessor and pursue continuous improvement in efficiency, enforcement, intelligence-led operations, stakeholder collaboration and community relations.”
He expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General for the confidence reposed in him, noting that the Ogun I Command plays a pivotal role in revenue generation, suppression of smuggling and the facilitation of legitimate trade along Nigeria’s border with the Republic of Benin.
Afeni holds a Bachelor of Technology in Industrial Design from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, and a Master’s degree in Diplomacy and Strategic Studies from the University of Lagos. He has also undergone extensive training in conflict management, international negotiation, strategic leadership and border operations.
The outgoing Controller, Otunla, was credited with notable achievements during his tenure, including significant reductions in smuggling activities, improved personnel welfare, enhanced trade facilitation and stronger interagency cooperation—milestones Afeni has pledged to build upon.
