Compt Anani Holds Engagement Meeting with Maritime Journalists, Generates Over 11Billion in May.

By Stella Okocha 

The Tincan Island Port Command new Controller, Comptroller Joseph Anani has held a media parley with maritime journalists as part of his broader stakeholders’ engagement.

According Compt Anani, the meeting which took place yesterday at the Command’s conference room, marks an important step in a deliberate effort to build stronger bridges of understanding and cooperation between the Command and the Media.

He stated that since assumption of office, he has made it a priority to engage continuously with all critical stakeholders in the maritime sector, and the press remains one of the most vital components in that ecosystem.

Anani acknowledged the role of the media in the success of our operations, because they are not just a channel of communication; but a strategic partner in shaping public understanding, promoting accountability, and enhancing compliance within the system.

“Your reportage significantly influences public perception of our activities, and by extension, the effectiveness of our mandate” , he said.

According to Anani, “I want to clearly state that the press will play a vital role in this administration. You will be fully carried along in our policies, operations, reforms, and achievements. We are committed to ensuring timely, accurate, and transparent flow of information to enable you perform your duties effectively”.

“Furthermore, this Command will continue to explore ways of empowering the press, particularly through structured training, sensitization workshops, and capacity-building program. We recognize that a well-informed and well-equipped press corps will not only enhance the quality of reportage but also strengthen institutional understanding of our operations and challenges”.

The TinCan boss seizes the opportunity to charge members of the press to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in their reportage of the Command’s activities.

He highlighted that responsible journalism is critical to maintaining public trust, preventing misinformation, and ensuring that collective objectives are not undermined by inaccurate or misleading narratives.

He assured the press that the Command will not relent in leveraging the ongoing modernization drive of the Service. “We are committed to strengthening systems, processes, and technology-driven solutions that enhances efficiency, and trade facilitation at the port”, he said.

In his words, “In line with our new mandate, this administration will uphold total compliance with all applicable laws and regulations as enshrined in the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023. Compliance will be at the heart of our operations, and we will continue to enforce the law firmly, fairly, and professionally”.

Anani noted that he also pleased to inform the press that the Command is currently performing commendably in the area of revenue generation, add that in the month of May, barely over a month of assuming office, the Command generated the sum of

111,270,357,236.25.

He added that this positive trajectory is a reflection of the dedication of his officers, improved compliance levels, and enhanced operational efficiency. “We intend to consolidate on these gains and, indeed, strive to surpass previous achievements under the preceding administration”.

Anani also took a moment to appreciate the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, PhD for the confidence reposed in him through his appointment to head this strategic Command.

“I am deeply grateful for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to reforming and repositioning the Service for greater efficiency and global competitiveness”, Anani commented.

Anani also assured journalists that Command is open to collaborative and committed constructive engagement with all stakeholders, especially the media.

He added that to further strengthen their relationship with the media, the Public Relations Unit of the Command will be specifically charged with the responsibility of ensuring that all press-related matters receive the priority and attention they deserve.

He said the Unit will maintain a close and continuous interface with members of the press, providing timely information, facilitating access to relevant developments, and fostering mutual understanding between the Command and the media.

He added that he believes that a strong and professional partnership with the press is essential to achieving their objectives and keeping the public adequately informed about their activities.

“Together, we can ensure that Tincan Island Port Command continues to play its critical role in national growth, trade facilitation, and revenue generation”, he concluded.