The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Edo/Delta Area Command, has identified strong collaboration with the media, stakeholder engagement and transparency as key drivers of its impressive revenue performance, as it moved to strengthen ties with journalists in a bid to deepen public trust and national development.
The Command said its commitment to openness and accountability helped it exceed its 2025 revenue target by 22.67 per cent, generating N125.13 billion between January and November 2025 against a projected N102.01 billion, underscoring the growing importance of public confidence in government institutions.
Speaking while receiving the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Warri Correspondents’ Chapel, on a courtesy visit, the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Judith Kanu, described the media as a critical partner in nation-building and effective public service delivery.
According to her, responsible journalism plays a vital role in connecting government agencies with citizens, promoting transparency and ensuring that accurate information reaches the public.
“The media remains a critical partner in nation-building and public service. Through responsible journalism, you help bridge the gap between government institutions and the citizens we serve,” Kanu said.
She reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining a cordial and professional relationship with journalists, stressing that transparency, accountability and timely dissemination of information remain central to Customs operations.
Kanu noted that stronger engagement between Customs and the media would not only enhance public understanding of the agency’s activities but also support efforts to boost revenue generation, trade facilitation and national economic growth.
She commended journalists for their contributions to peace, security and development through balanced reporting, urging them to continue upholding professionalism and ethical standards in the discharge of their duties.
Earlier, Chairman of the NUJ Warri Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Akpokona Omafuaire, described the Nigeria Customs Service as one of the country’s most strategic economic institutions, given its roles in revenue generation, anti-smuggling operations and protection of the nation’s economy.
Omafuaire called for closer collaboration between Customs and the media, describing the relationship as mutually beneficial and essential to informing the public about government policies and achievements.
He also congratulated the Command on its outstanding revenue performance and pledged the support of journalists in promoting its activities, while advocating the revitalisation of the Warri Port as a catalyst for regional and national economic growth.
Also speaking, Deputy Controller I. Omiete emphasised the constitutional role of the media as the fourth estate of the realm, urging journalists to remain objective and responsible in shaping public discourse and strengthening democratic governance.
The visit highlighted growing recognition by both Customs and the media of the need for stronger partnerships to promote transparency, accountability and public confidence in institutions that drive Nigeria’s economic development.