The Nigeria Customs Service Area Controller, Oyo/Osun Area Command, Dr Ben Oramalugo, on Thursday, paid a courtesy visit to the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, at the monarch’s palace.
This was contained in a release issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer and Superintendent of Customs, Kayode Wey.
Speaking, Oramalugo said the visit was aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between the Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service and the traditional leadership of Ibadan, and a demonstration of respect and recognition for the traditional institution.
He added that both entities were working together to promote economic growth, secure borders, and enhance community engagement.
Oramalugo said, “It is an honour and privilege to visit His Imperial Majesty, the Olubadan of Ibadan Land, whose leadership and wisdom have greatly contributed to the peace and development of this ancient city. The Customs Service values the support and cooperation of the traditional rulers to ensure that smuggling activities are curbed and that legitimate trade is promoted within Oyo and Osun states.”
While briefing the Olubadan on the activities of the Oyo/Osun Area Command, he highlighted the Command’s achievements in revenue generation, suppression of smuggling, and trade facilitation.
He also expressed appreciation for the peaceful environment in Ibadan, which he said, had greatly been enhancing the Customs Service to effectively discharge its duties.
The area controller further sought more collaboration with the traditional institution to enable the Command to achieve its core mandate and improve service delivery.
In his response, Oba Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I, ably represented by Oba Hamidu Salaudeen, the Ekerin Olubadan of Ibadan, applauded the initiative by the Customs Area Controller for the courtesy visit to His Imperial Majesty.
He said the act was a display of a high sense of respect for tradition on the part of the Area Controller, and commended the efforts of the Nigeria Customs Service in safeguarding the economic interests of the nation and protecting local industries from the adverse effects of smuggling.
