…Inter-Border Security Forum Deepens Cross-Border Partnerships
Dr. Bonny A. Botoku, the Secretary General of the Inter-Border Security Forum, has extended a warm welcome to Comptroller James Folorunsho Ojo, who has assumed the role of Area Controller for Ogun 1 Command, following the redeployment of Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu to Federal Operations Unit, Zone B.
The Inter-Border Security Forum, according to Dr Botoku is dedicated to promoting cross-border cooperation and security, but always looking to strengthening relationship between Nigeria and Republic of Benin to further improve operations of Customs and other para-military outfits at the border communities.
He posited that with the appointment of Comptroller Ojo, the Forum is confident that it has found an experienced and dedicated leader who will continue to uphold its mission and values to ensure peaceful coexistence amongst natives of the two borderline communities.
The Secretary General of the Inter-Border Security Forum, praised the outgoing Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu for his dedication to promoting trade and cross-border cooperation and security during his tenure at Ogun 1 Command.
Dr. Botoku commended Comptroller Shuaibu for his exceptional leadership and commitment to the Forum’s mission of ensuring the safety and security of the region.
According to him, under Comptroller Shuaibu’s leadership, Ogun 1 Command made significant strides in promoting trade and cross-border cooperation, particularly at the Idiroko border with clear measures to combat smuggling, fraud, and other illegal activities.
Dr. Botoku remarked that the Forum will miss Comptroller Shuaibu’s leadership and stewardship, but expressed confidence that he will continue to make a valuable contribution to the region in his new role at the Federal Operations Unit, Zone B.
He said, “We are confident that Comptroller Shuaibu will continue to uphold the values and mission of the Inter-Border Security Forum in his new role”
“We urge him to continue his good work in promoting trade, cross-border cooperation, and security in his new engagement.”
During the ceremony, Comptroller Shuaibu expressed his profound gratitude to God Almighty for his successful tour of duty in Ogun 1 Command.
He also conveyed his sincere appreciation to the CGC and his management team for the opportunity accorded him to serve in the Command as the Area Controller, and equally assigned him other responsibilities.
He pledged to keep upholding the sanctity of the CGC’s policy thrust – Consolidation, Innovation and Collaboration.
In a similar vein, he thanked and appreciated the entire Officers and Men, and Command’s stakeholders for their patience, support and cooperation extended to him while in office.
Speaking further, the Comptroller recounted his achievements to include improved revenue generation, enhanced anti-smuggling exploit, unhindered trade facilitation, robust synergy with stakeholders and impressive Corporate Social Responsibilities, among others.
He emphasized that Ogun State which was known to be a war zone for Customs operations is now a peaceful zone with zero casualty during its operations.
He urged the Command’s management team, entire officers and men, and the critical stakeholders including the traditional rulers and youths to accord the new administration the required support and cooperation in order to succeed.
Comptroller James Ojo, new Area Controller, while addressing the gathering at the Command’s conference room, congratulated his predecessor on his successful tour of duty and laudable achievements recorded.
He assured him of consolidation and significant improvement on the performance tempo of the Command, in line with the policy thrust of the CGC.
He recognized the presence of the traditional rulers, heads of security agencies within and outside the country, other critical stakeholders and gentlemen of the press at the event.
He sought for their support and cooperation beyond what was extended to his predecessor.
Comptroller Ojo further said, “As we witness this transition, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to the ideas and objectives that define our Command.”
“Let us pledge to work hand in hand, fostering teamwork, communication, and collaboration at every turn. Together, we will overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and continue to uphold the standards of excellence for which the Ogun 1 Area Command is renowned”.
Speaking at the occasion, the Opo of Idosemo, Oba James Ajibola Ajani and Onitaege of Itaege, Oba Ademola Mathew Abisoye congratulated the former Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu on his successful tenure in office. They commended his administrative style, describing it as all-encompassing and peaceful, and wish him success in his new assignments.
While welcoming the new CAC, they congratulated him on his appointment and enjoined him to tour the successful path of his predecessor to succeed.
Similarly, Mr Taiwo Obanla, who delivered goodwill message on behalf of the Ipokia Youth Forum, congratulated the former CAC for the great achievements recorded while in office. He commended him for ensuring that peaceful atmosphere reigns supreme in their communities, during his administration, and wish him all the best in his new posting.
The Deputy Comptroller in charge of the administration of the Command, DC Charles Ogunesan after delivering his goodwill message on behalf of the management team, gave the vote of thanks on behalf of the Command.
Until his deployment to Ogun 1 Area Command, Comptroller James Ojo has served in different Area Commands in various capacities including PH 2 Command, Onne, Cross Rivers Command, Valuation Unit – FOU A, Lilypond Area Command, Niger/Kwara Command, Tincan Island Port Command, and SEME Area Command.
He hails from Ondo State and he has attended many courses in his career path.
