The Congress of Nigerian Maritime Media Practitioners (CONMMEP) has honoured the Public Relations Officer of the Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC) Oscar Enya Ivara, with its Customs Commands’ Best Public Relations Officer Award.
The recognition was presented during CONMMEP’s Annual Lecture and Fifth Anniversary celebration held on June 25 and 26 in Ikeja, Lagos, where individuals and organisations were recognised for contributions to Nigeria’s maritime industry.
Why It Matters
Public communication has become increasingly important in Nigeria’s maritime sector, where timely information can improve compliance, reduce misinformation and strengthen trust between government agencies, businesses and the public.
CONMMEP said Ivara’s work over more than 13 years has helped improve communication between the Nigeria Customs Service and maritime journalists while promoting transparency in Customs operations.
The association described him as one of the country’s most responsive and professional Customs spokespersons, citing his record in strategic communication, stakeholder engagement and media relations.
It also praised his digital advocacy for the B’Odogwu Customs clearance platform at the Tin Can Island Port Command, saying the initiative has supported improved compliance, operational efficiency and revenue transparency.
Among the milestones highlighted were the Command’s public announcement of its ₦347.93 billion first-quarter 2025 revenue and its disclosure of a record ₦16.41 billion single-day revenue collection on August 19, 2025.
Ivara: ‘The Reward for Hard Work Is More Work’
Receiving the award, Ivara thanked CONMMEP for the recognition and pledged to continue strengthening engagement with the maritime media.
“The reward for hard work is more work. I sincerely thank CONMMEP for finding me worthy of this honour. I am deeply humbled and will not take this recognition for granted.”
He also congratulated the association on its fifth anniversary.
“On behalf of the Customs Area Controller of Tin Can Island Port Command, Comptroller Joseph Anani, and the entire officers and men of the Command, I congratulate CONMMEP on its fifth anniversary. We remain committed to sustaining our collaboration with CONMMEP and the maritime media in promoting the activities of the Nigeria Customs Service.”
CONMMEP Reaffirms Commitment to Excellence
CONMMEP President, Comrade Udo Onyeka, said the association would continue recognising individuals whose professionalism and integrity contribute to the growth of Nigeria’s maritime industry.
He said the organisation remains committed to identifying, celebrating and encouraging public officers and maritime practitioners whose dedication strengthens the sector.
Founded in 2021, CONMMEP marked its fifth anniversary with an annual lecture that brought together maritime stakeholders, government agencies and journalists to discuss issues affecting the industry.
What This Means for Businesses and the Public
For freight forwarders, shipping companies and importers, clearer communication from Customs can provide quicker access to policy updates and operational changes.
For the public, regular disclosure of revenue figures and Customs activities strengthens accountability and offers greater insight into the performance of one of Nigeria’s major revenue-generating agencies.
What’s Next
CONMMEP says it will continue using its annual awards to recognise excellence across Nigeria’s maritime sector while encouraging stronger collaboration between industry stakeholders, regulators and the media.
The Nigeria Customs Service is also expected to sustain its digital communication efforts as it continues implementing reforms aimed at improving trade facilitation
By Titilayo Olamide
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