In an effort to fight smuggling and promote trade facilitation through Nigeria’s land borders, the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun I Area Command, has sought collaboration with Ogun State traditional rulers.
The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller James Ojo, on 4 July 2024, paid a courtesy visit to the Alake of Egbaland, His Royal Majesty Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, and other esteemed traditional leaders, emphasising the importance of their support in maintaining regional peace and security.
Comptroller Ojo, speaking on the vital role traditional rulers play in their communities, stressed the need to leverage their influence and insights to combat smuggling activities effectively.
He stressed the strategic importance of Ogun State’s borders with the Republic of Benin and underscored the necessity for a united front in tackling economic crimes.
The visit also included discussions with sister security agencies, such as the Nigeria Police Force, the 35 Artillery Brigade Nigerian Army, the Federal Road Safety Corps, the Defence Intelligence Agency, and the Nigeria Correctional Service.
These engagements emphasised the need for continuous and robust collaboration to address the challenges of smuggling and other cross-border crimes.
The CAC reiterated the commitment of the Ogun I Area Command to the principles of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation, aligning with the policy thrust of the Comptroller-General of Customs.
In his remarks, the Alake of Egbaland assured continuous support and collaboration with the Ogun Area Command.
He commended the Customs Area Controller for the anti-smuggling activities within the area and pledged commitment to combating smuggling and other economic crimes alongside customs.
