ZAINAB JUNAID
The Customs Area Controller of Oyo/Osun Command, Comptroller Gambo Iyere Aliyu, on Tuesday, 8th October 2025, paid a courtesy visit to three prominent monarchs in Oyo State, including the Alaafin of Oyo, the Soun of Ogbomoso, and the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon.
This visit, according to the Command’s PRO, Assistant Superintendent of Customs I, Abdulmalik Abiodun Akintola, aimed to strengthen community relations and enhance collaboration with traditional institutions.
Comptroller Aliyu and his delegation were warmly received by the revered monarchs, who expressed appreciation for the Command’s recognition of the critical role of traditional institutions in ensuring social stability and economic growth.
In his remarks, the Customs Area Controller acknowledged the historical significance and enduring influence of the traditional rulers across the Yoruba Kingdom.
He highlighted the core mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), including: revenue generation, suppression of smuggling, and facilitation of legitimate trade; stressing the importance of partnership with traditional authorities in achieving these objectives.
Comptroller Aliyu appealed for the continued support of the monarchs in sensitizing their communities against smuggling and other economic crimes, noting that trading prohibited or harmful goods poses severe risks to public health, safety, and the national economy.
In their separate responses, the monarchs pledged their full support and cooperation to the Nigeria Customs Service, commending the Controller’s leadership style and proactive engagement approach aimed at strengthening ties between the Service and host communities.
The visits also underscored the commitment of the Oyo/Osun Area Command under the leadership of Comptroller Gambo Iyere Aliyu to promote mutual understanding, community partnership, and stakeholders engagement in the discharge of its statutory duties.
