Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Comptroller Immaculata Nyong has formally taken over leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service’s Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone Command in Onne, Rivers State, pledging to deepen collaboration and enhance regulatory compliance at one of the country’s most strategic trade hubs.
Nyong assumed the role on Tuesday during a handover ceremony at the command’s headquarters, replacing Comptroller Aliyu Alkali, who lauded the command’s recent operational gains.
While highlighting his tenure, Comptroller Alkali revealed that the command exceeded its revenue target by 22.9% in the past three months and weeks, attributing the success to the commitment of customs officers and active cooperation from stakeholders within the zone.
“The Oil and Gas Free Trade Zone is of critical national importance. I am confident that my successor will build on the solid foundation we have laid to sustain the Command’s upward trajectory,” Alkali stated.
In her inaugural address, Comptroller Nyong expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for the opportunity to lead the command and pledged unwavering commitment to the service’s core values.
“I pledge to work collaboratively with all stakeholders, government agencies, and industry players to strengthen trade facilitation while ensuring strict adherence to regulatory frameworks,” she said.
Nyong also commended her predecessor’s leadership and achievements, assuring that she would prioritize continuity, operational efficiency, and stakeholder engagement to drive further growth.
The ceremony was attended by senior customs officers, representatives of licensed enterprises, and other key players operating within the Free Trade Zone.
The Oil and Gas FTZ in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State serves as a crucial gateway for energy-related trade and investment in Nigeria.
