The Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, on Tuesday received the newly posted Customs Area Controller of the Oyo/Osun Area Command, Comptroller Joseph Adelaja during a courtesy visit to the Ile Oodua Palace.
The visit was marked by warm cultural exchanges and a reaffirmation of mutual commitment to national development, particularly in the area of border security and trade facilitation.
The Customs Area Controller, in his address, expressed profound appreciation for the warm reception accorded him and his team. He highlighted the significance of the Ooni’s role as a custodian of tradition, peace, and unity, emphasizing the importance of aligning the mission of the Nigeria Customs Service with traditional institutions to ensure a secure and prosperous nation.
"We are here not only to pay our respects but to deepen the longstanding relationship between the Nigeria Customs Service and the revered throne of Oduduwa," the Controller stated. He also acknowledged the strategic importance of Ile-Ife in matters of commerce and called for stronger synergy in combating smuggling and promoting lawful trade practices.
Responding, the Ooni described the Controller’s visit as a homecoming, underscoring the cultural and national value of such engagements.
He commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its consistent efforts in fostering healthy relationships with traditional institutions and grassroots communities, describing them as critical stakeholders in the nation’s security architecture.
"This visit is not just a formality; it is a homecoming. The Customs Service has shown admirable consistency in reaching out to traditional institutions and recognizing our relevance in shaping peaceful and progressive societies,” the Ooni remarked.
“Such collaborations, when nurtured with sincerity and commitment, will continue to yield meaningful impacts in fortifying our borders and curbing illegal trade.", the revered monarch added.
The monarch emphasized the need for continuous dialogue and cooperation between security agencies and traditional rulers, noting that shared values and collective responsibility are crucial to addressing national challenges.
He assured the Controller of his support and that of the Ife people in promoting peace, justice, and sustainable development.
The courtesy visit concluded with the exchange of symbolic gifts and royal blessings, reinforcing a shared vision for unity and national progress.
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