From Victor Edozie, in Port Harcourt
Comptroller Aliyu Alkali on Thursday took over as the 26th Controller of Area II Command of the Nigeria Customs Service in Port Harcourt.
A statement issued in Port Harcourt on Thursday by Theophilus Peter Duniya, the Customs Command PRO, said the Command witnessed a historic transition as Comptroller Aliyu M Alkali, took over as the 26th Customs Area Controller from the recently promoted Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs (ACG) Mohammed Babandede, who handed over the leadership of the Command on Wednesday, 10th September 2025.
Duniya said the handover ceremony was attended by the Zonal Coordinator Zone C, ACG Kamal Mohammed the Customs Area Controller of Port Harcourt I Command, Comptroller Salamatu Atuluku, heads of security and regulatory agencies, terminal operators, freight forwarders, and other key stakeholders, was marked by a warm reception.
He said the outgoing Comptroller, ACG Mohammed Babandede, thanked officers of the Command, sister agencies, associations at the Onne Port, and the Port management for their support and cooperation during his tenure. He noted that the existing synergy led to tremendous achievements under his watch. He requested continued cooperation and synergy with the new Customs Area Controller.
He said the Zonal Coordinator, Zone C. ACG Kamal Mohammed, in his speech, said “the outgoing CAC was a distinguished leader, who until recently served as our revered Customs Area Controller, had his tenure nothing short of dedication, vision, and resilience; leaving an indelible mark in the annals of the command’s history. He wished him continued success, greater fulfilment, and Allah’s guidance in all his endeavours.”
“He gave the newly deployed Area Controller, a warm welcome and reminded him that the task before him is both noble and demanding. The Zonal Coordinator however, expressed his confidence in the CAC’s ability to steer the Command to greater heights. He added, “We implore you to build on the solid legacies left behind by your predecessor, while bringing in fresh ideas and innovations that will further advance the mission of the Service. Together, we look forward to a new chapter of growth, discipline, and excellence under your leadership,” Duniya stated.
He said Alkali in his acceptance remark, pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
Alkali told stakeholders that his assignment is to ensure compliance with trade regulations, facilitate legitimate trade, collect revenue for the federal government and ensure public safety.
He requested all stakeholders to key into Nigeria’s continued development. He also assured the stakeholders of his commitment to consolidating on the foundation laid by ACG Mohammed Babandede, and called for continuous collaboration to sustain the Command’s quota to trade facilitation, revenue generation, prevention of economic sabotage and ensuring public safety.
