Michael Ugbagu has assumed the role of the 28th Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit zone C (FOUC) of the Nigeria Customs Service in Owerri.
The handover ceremony took place on April 19, 2024, marking a new chapter in the fight against smuggling and illegal importation in the region.
Ugbagu, who succeeded Comptroller Kolade, emphasized his commitment to ensuring compliance with the current import and export guidelines.
He stressed the importance of utilizing intelligence and technology to drive operations and maintain watertight security against smuggling activities across the zone.
"We will ensure compliance with the current import and export guidelines using intelligence and technology to drive our operations.
There will be watertight security against smuggling activities across the zone.
Smugglers will be discouraged, frustrated, and made uncomfortable, thereby making smuggling, duty evasion, and warehousing of smuggled goods unattractive within the zone," Ugbagu said.
Ugbagu called for support and cooperation from the media and the general public to enable him to carry out his new assignment effectively.
He expressed gratitude to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, and his entire management team for entrusting him with this responsibility.
Ugbagu also praised his predecessor, Comptroller Kolade, for his commendable achievements during his tenure and pledged to continue following established guidelines while discharging his duties.
As the new Comptroller of FOUC Zone C, Ugbagu faces the challenge of combating smuggling and ensuring the smooth flow of legitimate trade in the region.
His commitment to utilizing modern tools and strategies in the fight against smuggling is a promising step towards strengthening Nigeria's customs operations and promoting a more secure and transparent trade environment.
