Nigeria Customs Service strengthens inter-agency cooperation to combat smuggling

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is intensifying efforts to combat smuggling and trans-border crimes through enhanced collaboration with various security agencies and private-sector operators.

In Lagos, the Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, led by Acting Comptroller Oladapo Olukayode Afeni, met with the Lagos State Police Command to advocate for closer synergy. Afeni highlighted the necessity of intelligence sharing to prevent illicit activities, particularly as the country approaches an election period when crime rates often rise.

Simultaneously, the NCS Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone/Akwa Ibom Area Command, led by Acting Customs Area Controller Dr. Nkiru Nwala, engaged with the Nigerian Army, the Eastern Naval Command, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC). These discussions focused on securing land borders, maritime routes, and coastal communities to protect national revenue and territorial integrity.