Compt. Atuluku Seeks Stronger Synergy to Boost Cargo Operations
The Customs Area 1 Controller, Comptroller Salamatu Atuluku, has called for renewed collaboration among government agencies, stakeholders, and operators at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa, to attract more cargo traffic and enhance revenue generation.
Atuluku made the call during her maiden official visit to the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Airport Command in Omagwa, Rivers State, where she met with customs officers, airport management, clearing agents, and other sister agencies.
Speaking during the visit, the Comptroller expressed concern over the decline in cargo aircraft activities at the airport, describing it as a missed economic opportunity for the region. She said the meeting was aimed at fostering synergy, strengthening partnerships, and promoting efficient service delivery.
“This visit provides a valuable platform to strengthen bonds, share perspectives, and renew our collective commitment to ensuring smooth operations at this vital gateway to our nation,” she stated.
Atuluku commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR), and the NCS management for their visionary leadership in repositioning the Service for greater efficiency, transparency, and effectiveness.
She also praised the officers and men of the Airport Command for their dedication despite operational challenges, urging them to remain steadfast in upholding professionalism and integrity.
“You discharge your duties daily under challenging circumstances, yet you continue to uphold discipline and service excellence. The nation depends on your diligence,” she said.
The Area Controller extended appreciation to airport stakeholders and sister agencies, stressing that no agency could succeed in isolation.
“Our shared mandate of safeguarding the nation, promoting trade, and ensuring safety requires synergy, mutual respect, and joint responsibility,” she noted.
“With teamwork, transparency, and innovation, we can surmount challenges and set new benchmarks of success.”
In his remarks, Deputy Comptroller S.E. Ntuen, who heads the Airport Unit and is due for retirement, commended Atuluku’s leadership, describing her as an inspiring officer. He also thanked the NCS management and his colleagues for their support throughout his career.
“I will forever remain grateful to the Nigeria Customs Service. It has made me fulfilled, and I urge those I’m leaving behind to take the Service to greater heights,” Ntuen said.
Also speaking, Mrs. Ifesinachi Ezike, Regional Manager (South-South) of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), represented by Chief Chiaka S. Ukaegbu, the Airport Chief of Security, pledged continued support for the Customs Command’s efforts to enhance airport operations.
Ezike lamented the low patronage of cargo airlines at the Port Harcourt International Airport despite having modern facilities and trained manpower.
“We have state-of-the-art handling facilities that are underutilized. Our terminal can handle large volumes of freight, and we’re working to attract more cargo airlines,” she said.
Similarly, Mr. Charles Onyema, Chairman of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA), Port Harcourt Airport Chapter, called for stronger commitment from all stakeholders to revive the airport’s cargo business.
“All hands must be on deck to make this airport work efficiently. Collaboration will help tackle operational challenges and boost revenue for all parties,” Onyema stressed.
Representatives from the Nigerian Air Force, Immigration Service, Civil Defence Corps, Marine Police, terminal operators, and other critical stakeholders were also in attendance.
