Customs Seeks Obong of Calabar’s Support for Trade Compliance, Economic Revival
By Bimpe Audu
The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone/Akwa Ibom Area Command, Deputy Comptroller (DC) Ngozi Nwala, has sought the support of the Obong of Calabar and Grand Patriarch of the Efik Kingdom, His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, in promoting trade compliance and exploring opportunities for the economic revival of Cross River State.
DC Nwala made the appeal during a visit to the Obong’s palace on Tuesday, 3 November 2026, where she highlighted the role of traditional institutions in discouraging smuggling, promoting lawful commercial activities and encouraging community support for government policies.
She also expressed the Command’s interest in working with relevant stakeholders to explore opportunities for repositioning the Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort as a viable economic and commercial destination, while identifying new investment opportunities and strengthening existing commercial structures.
“We must collectively explore the opportunities available to reposition Cross River State as a competitive export hub, particularly by strengthening existing commercial structures and creating an enabling environment for investment and legitimate trade,” she said.
In his response, the Obong of Calabar appreciated the visit and acknowledged the contributions of the Nigeria Customs Service to revenue generation, border security and trade facilitation. He welcomed stronger cooperation between the Service and traditional institutions in addressing issues affecting commerce and community development.
“The Nigeria Customs Service plays an important role in revenue generation, border security and trade facilitation. We welcome the emphases on cooperation between the Service and traditional institutions in addressing issues affecting commerce and community development,” he stated.
The visit reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to sustaining constructive relationships with traditional institutions and other stakeholders towards promoting legitimate trade, strengthening export activities and contributing to the economic development of Cross River State.
