ZAINAB JUNAID
Dr. Ben Oramalugo has officially handed over reins of leadership of Oyo/Osun Area Command to Comptroller Joseph Olugbuyi Adelaja, marking a significant transition in leadership.
The change is part of redeployment of top officials within the Nigeria Customs Service(NCS), prompted by the retirement of several senior officers.
According to a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASC Abdul Malik Abiidun Akintola, Dr. Ben’s tenure was marked by notable achievements, including a record-breaking revenue collection of ₦82.2 billion in 2024, representing a 15.3% increase from the revenue generated in 2023.
Under his leadership, the Command also intensified its anti-smuggling efforts, seizing contraband goods worth billions of naira.
While speaking, Dr. Oramalugo expressed gratitude to the officers and men of the Command for their support and cooperation throughout his tenure.
He emphasised on the importance of teamwork and discipline in achieving the mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service and urged the Command to remain resolute in the fight against illicit trade and smuggling.
The new Area Controller, Comptroller J.O Adelaja, on his part, expressed appreciation for the warm reception extended to him and reaffirmed his commitment to building on the legacy left by his predecessor.Comptroller Adelaja pledged to uphold the core values of the Nigeria Customs Service, including integrity, professionalism, and service excellence.
He also emphasized his readiness to ensure that the Command continues to contribute significantly to the collection of government revenue and the fight against economic sabotage.
As new helmsman take over the Command, it’s obvious he inherited a good track record of revenue generation and anti-smuggling operations, the transition is expected to be seamless with Adelaja poised to build on the foundations laid by his predecessor.