Comptroller Queen Obazee takes over as Ondo/Ekiti Customs Area Controller, pledging reforms in revenue, security, anti-smuggling, and trade facilitation.

Comptroller Queen Obazee has officially assumed duty as the 28th Customs Area Controller for the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ondo/Ekiti Area Command.

At the handover ceremony held at the Command’s headquarters in Akure, she pledged to lead with a focus on strategic reforms that would strengthen revenue generation, enhance security, curb smuggling activities, and create an enabling environment for legitimate trade.

The appointment was formally announced on September 3 through a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Aondoakura Dzungwenen, and subsequently shared on the NCS official X account on Tuesday.

The announcement marks a significant leadership transition for the Ondo/Ekiti Area Command, which plays a critical role in managing customs operations, trade facilitation, and border security in the region.

During her inaugural address, Comptroller Obazee emphasized that her leadership would revolve around four strategic pillars: revenue assurance, security and supply-chain protection, anti-smuggling supremacy, and trade facilitation excellence.

She explained that these pillars would guide all operational and administrative decisions within the command.

“Our focus will be on four strategic pillars: revenue assurance, security and supply-chain protection, anti-smuggling supremacy, and trade facilitation excellence.

“We will institutionalize a zero-leakage culture, enforce discipline, and ensure intelligence-led operations across all units of the command,” she declared, highlighting her commitment to transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency.

Obazee also stressed the importance of creating a more favorable business environment for compliant traders and stakeholders.

“We will deepen industry engagement, recognize and reward compliance, and ensure that our operations are carefully planned for maximum impact, executed with professionalism, and reviewed regularly to identify areas for improvement,” she stated.

Her remarks underscored a proactive approach to fostering trust between the Customs Service and the business community while maintaining vigilance against illicit trade practices.

Welcoming her on behalf of the officers and men of the Ondo/Ekiti Command, Acting Deputy Comptroller of Administration, Assistant Comptroller Moses Uchegbu, expressed confidence in Obazee’s leadership.

He assured her of the full cooperation and support of all personnel to achieve the command’s strategic objectives.

Comptroller Obazee’s appointment comes at a crucial time when the NCS is intensifying efforts to curb smuggling, protect national revenue, and enhance trade facilitation across Nigeria.

Stakeholders in Ondo and Ekiti states have expressed optimism that her leadership will bring renewed focus, efficiency, and professionalism to the command.