Nigerian Customs Service Alerts on Terrorist Activities and Drug Trafficking at Borders

The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) has raised concerns over the presence of terrorists and drug traffickers operating along the country’s borders. Acting Comptroller-General of the Service, Adewale Adeniyi, conveyed this message during a visit to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja, at Army Headquarters in Abuja.

Adeniyi pointed out that the dynamics of border crimes have evolved significantly in the last decade, with terrorists now operating on Nigerian borders. Drug traffickers also exploit these borders to smuggle narcotics, which further fuels criminal activities.

One of the challenges cited by Adeniyi is the inability of NCS officers to respond effectively to the heightened security threats in border communities. Criminal elements seem to believe that they can overpower customs officers, which has led to a demand for increased collaboration with the Nigerian Army.

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Adeniyi made two key requests during the visit. First, he emphasized the need for greater cooperation between the NCS and the Army, particularly in terms of joint training operations. He expressed the desire to escalate this collaboration into operational matters to better equip customs officers working in challenging border areas.

Second, Adeniyi urged the Army to conduct a show of force at the border areas to send a clear message to smugglers and hostile communities that the Nigerian military is prepared to respond robustly to security threats.

In response, Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja assured Adeniyi of expanded collaboration between the two agencies. The Army will focus on border areas to deter criminals attempting to smuggle prohibited items into the country. Additionally, he requested approval for the repair of the NCS Jetty in Cross River State to improve border security operations.

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