The Acting Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Adewale Adeniyi, has expressed a keen interest in strengthening cooperation between the NCS and the Nigerian Army in addressing trans-border security threats.
CG Adeniyi made this request during a courtesy visit with the management team of Customs to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, in Abuja on Monday.
Adeniyi highlighted the longstanding amicable relationship between the NCS and the army, particularly in areas such as training and the distribution of relief materials.
However, given the current security challenges along Nigeria’s borders, Mr. Adeniyi emphasized the need for a deeper and more comprehensive collaboration.
In addition to its primary role of revenue collection, Mr. Adeniyi pointed out that the NCS is responsible for combatting smuggling and facilitating trade, as well as cooperating with other government agencies to enhance public safety and maintain law and order.
He stressed the importance of drawing on the strengths of various agencies to present a united front against threats to the state, as criminal activities have evolved over time.
Mr. Adeniyi highlighted the NCS’s experience in addressing cross-border crimes, such as smuggling prohibited items, and emphasized the benefits of close collaboration with other government agencies.
He proposed joint training operations with the Nigerian Army and the development of scenarios that mimic situations in border areas. Additionally, he requested the army’s support in distributing forfeited relief items to internally displaced persons, orphanages, and communities inhabited by the most vulnerable Nigerians.
In response, Gen Lagbaja acknowledged the long history of collaboration between the Nigerian Army and the NCS and expressed his willingness to expand and strengthen this partnership. He praised the NCS for its cooperation in clearing imported military platforms.
Regarding potential collaboration areas, the COAS pledged to increase the army’s presence in border regions to deter criminals involved in smuggling contraband into the country. He also requested approval for the repair of the NCS Jetty in Cross River, which had become somewhat detached from the water body.
