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Customs Service, WABOTAN Forge Partnership to Combat Smuggling on Nigeria Waterways
Customs Service, WABOTAN Forge Partnership to Combat Smuggling on Nigeria Waterways
By Raymond Gold | Reporter
Waterways News
The Nigerian Customs Service Western Marine Command and Waterfront Boat Owners and Transporters Association of Nigeria (WABOTAN) have agreed to strengthen collaboration in the fight against smuggling on the nation’s waterways.
The partnership emerged from a strategic meeting held between both stakeholders on Thursday, 13th November 2025 at WABOTAN National Secretariat, Apapa-Lagos. The customs delegation sent by the Customs Area Comptroller, Western Marine Command, Patrick N Ntadi, was led by Assistant Comptroller of Customs CC Oputa and include Chief Superintendent of Customs SA Okopi, Superintendent of Customs JO Ogbe and Superintendent of Customs IB Oseni.
Speaking at the meeting, WABOTAN National President Mr. Babatope Fajemirokun commended the Area Comptroller’s strategic approach to waterways security and his commitment to combating smuggling activities. He described the visit as a demonstration of the command’s commitment to combating maritime security challenges.
The contentious issue of boats seizure was raised by Comrade Osaweren O. Larry where he emphasized that WABOTAN members, as legitimate boat owners, should not have their vessels impounded when charterers violate Customs regulations. He called for a more nuanced approach that distinguishes between boat owners and those who misuse chartered vessels.
Another Wabotan member, Mr. Olabode James requested that the Customs Service provide resource persons to support WABOTAN’s annual training programs for boat drivers and deckhands as part of sensitization among operators. Chief Raymond Gold, WABOTAN’s Public Relations Officer, reinforced these positions while outlining practical ways the association could collaborate with the Nigerian Customs Service.
Responding to the concerns raised, Assistant Comptroller Oputa explained that boat seizure remains an important enforcement tool. However, the Customs Service could release vessels when they are merely means of conveyance and not directly involved in criminal activity. He noted that boats become part of the crime when used to transport arms, ammunition, and any other contraband.
The Assistant Comptroller also advised boat owners to exercise due diligence by verifying if charterers possess proper licenses and ensuring that cargo being transported is not prohibited. He emphasized that boat owners have a responsibility to know what their vessels are being used to carry.
Other Customs officers at the meeting made clarifications on operational procedures including ship chandlers, who must obtain proper approvals and be accompanied by assigned officers to Customs checkpoints at the breakwater. They also enlightened the association on temporary import permits for cargo landed from vessels.
The meeting concluded on a cordial note, with WABOTAN National President Fajemirokun presenting a box of life jackets to the visiting Customs team as a token of appreciation for their engagement with the association.
The collaboration signals a new chapter in stakeholder engagement on Nigeria’s waterways, with both parties committed to balancing security concerns with legitimate business interests of boat owners and operators.
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