By Ambrose Obioma Okehi (News Emperor)
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Ogun I Area Command and the Nigeria Police Force have joined forces to combat smuggling and cross-border crime along the Idiroko border in Ogun State. This renewed partnership aims to enhance intelligence sharing and joint operations to secure the border and protect Nigeria’s economic interests.
A press statement from the command as signed by the command, it noted that during a high-level meeting, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, emphasized the need for collective responsibility in ensuring national security. He urged officers to work together, sharing intelligence and resources to disrupt smuggling networks operating along the Idiroko-Igolo corridor.
Afeni stressed that sustaining the current calm in the Idiroko axis requires proactive intelligence sharing and synchronized enforcement operations. He added that the strengthened alliance aligns with the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi’s policy thrust of collaboration, consolidation, and innovation within the Service.
ACP Adejumo Segun, Area Commander of Police, Idiroko, welcomed the partnership, pledging the Police’s commitment to supporting Customs. He emphasized that the shared objective is to guarantee the safety of residents in border communities, provide tactical support to curb illegal trade, and exchange critical intelligence needed to stay ahead of criminal elements exploiting the porous border routes.
Both agencies agreed to regular intelligence exchange and joint operational efforts, signaling a determined push to secure Ogun State’s borders and protect Nigeria’s economic interests. The Command remains committed to fostering productive relationships with security agencies and stakeholders in Ogun State.
The meeting demonstrated a renewed commitment to cooperation and collaboration between the Customs and Police, with a focus on achieving tangible results in the fight against smuggling and cross-border crime.
The partnership is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, with increased security and stability attracting investment and promoting trade. The Command’s efforts will also enhance the overall security landscape in Ogun State, making it a more attractive destination for businesses and investors.
The Customs and Police will work closely with other security agencies and stakeholders to ensure the success of their joint efforts. The public is encouraged to support the agencies by reporting suspicious activities and providing intelligence to help combat smuggling and cross-border crime.
The Ogun I Area Command’s initiative is part of a broader effort by the Nigeria Customs Service to strengthen partnerships with security agencies and stakeholders to protect Nigeria’s borders and promote economic growth.