Comptroller Atuluku Strengthens Inter-Agency Cooperation to Tackle Illicit Trade, Enhance Port Security
Author: Lucy Nyambi.
The Customs Area Controller, in charge of Port Harcourt Area I Command, Comptroller Salamatu Atuluku, has embarked on strategic visits to the Rivers State Commands of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) as part of efforts to deepen inter-agency collaboration in combating illicit trade, drug trafficking, and other transnational crimes.
According to a Press Release issued on October 11, 2025, by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Customs (ASC I), Aanee Barilule, the visits underscore the Command’s commitment to strengthening joint efforts among security agencies to safeguard national security and economic stability.
During her visit to NDLEA, Comptroller Atuluku reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to effective border management through collaboration with other law enforcement agencies.
She noted that drug trafficking and other illicit trades are often intertwined with smuggling activities, making close cooperation between the NCS and NDLEA is essential to national security and economic protection.
“The Nigeria Customs Service and the NDLEA share a common responsibility to protect our nation from the dangers of illicit substances and prohibited goods. Through intelligence sharing, joint operations, and continuous engagement, we can strengthen our capacity to safeguard our borders and Society”, she stated.
In his response, NDLEA Commander Ahmed Mamuda commended Comptroller Atuluku for the visit, describing it as a demonstration of proactive leadership and commitment to strengthening institutional synergy. He acknowledged that the NCS has remained a dependable partner in the collective effort to secure the nation’s borders and eliminate the trafficking of illegal drugs.
He reaffirmed NDLEA’s readiness to sustain the cooperation with NCS through intelligence sharing, joint operations, and collaborative enforcement.
Similarly, Comptroller Atuluku also paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner of Police, Micheal Okoh, at the Eastern Port Police Command, Nigerian Ports Authority Complex, Port Harcourt.
In her remarks, she emphasised that stronger collaboration would significantly enhance port operations and national security. “When we stand together as sister agencies, we send a strong message to economic saboteurs that our ports and borders are not safe havens for illegal activities”, she asserted.
Responding, CP Micheal Okoh commended the visit, describing it as a demonstration of authentic leadership and commitment to partnership.
He pledged the Police Command’s continued support for Customs operations, while reaffirming readiness to strengthen operational collaboration through information exchange, capacity building, and joint enforcement initiatives.
