ZAINAB JUNAID
The Customs Area Controller of Oyo/Osun Area Command, Comptroller Joseph Olugbuyi Adelaja, on Tuesday, 15 April 2025, led a delegation of senior officers on a courtesy visit to the palace of His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi Ojaja II, in the ancient and revered city of Ile-Ife.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Command’s Spokesman, Assistant Superintendent Of Customs II, Akintola Abiodun Abdulmalik.
According to the statement, Comptroller Adelaja, who was given warm reception at the historic palace, expressed profound gratitude towards the Ojaja 11, stressing the importance of the visit.
He stated that the visit was both symbolic and strategic, aimed at strengthening the longstanding cordial relationship between the Nigeria Customs Service and the respected throne of Oduduwa.
The Comptroller acknowledged the significant role of His Imperial Majesty as a custodian of Yoruba culture, a unifier, and a symbol of peace whose influence continues to inspire and guide not only the Yoruba people but Nigerians at large.
He emphasized that the Nigeria Customs Service, through the Oyo/Osun Area Command, remains committed to its core responsibilities of revenue generation, border security, and trade facilitation.
He sought for continued cooperation and support from the Ooni and the traditional institutions within the region in order to promote lawful trade, economic stability, and national security.
Comptroller Adelaja stressed that effective collaboration with traditional authorities is key in curbing smuggling and other unlawful activities that undermine national economic interests.
In his response, Oba Ogunwusi warmly welcomed the Customs Area Controller and his entourage, commending the Service for its vital role in the development of the Nigerian economy.
He acknowledged the Service’s efforts in generating revenue, facilitating legitimate trade, and combating smuggling activities.
He equally assured the delegation of his full support and pledged that the traditional institutions under his leadership would continue to cooperate with the Nigeria Customs Service in the discharge of its statutory duties.
The visit concluded with a renewed sense of mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to the economic advancement and security of the region and the nation at large.
