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The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has intensified efforts to eliminate trade bottlenecks along the strategic Lagos–Abidjan corridor through renewed collaboration with traditional institutions and security agencies operating across the border axis.
Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Abdullahi Kaila, disclosed this during a series of familiarisation visits to key stakeholders in Badagry, underscoring the Command’s alignment with Federal Government economic policies on trade facilitation, revenue generation, and anti-smuggling operations.
Kaila noted that dismantling barriers to the seamless movement of goods and services requires sustained cooperation from host communities and inter-agency partners. He stressed that traditional rulers play a pivotal role in maintaining border stability and supporting lawful trade.
During a visit to the palace of the Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, the Controller condoled with the royal family and people of Badagry over the passing of HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, describing the late monarch as a respected figure across border communities.
“The purpose of this visit is to seek your royal blessing and strengthen collaboration. Our mandate remains revenue generation, trade facilitation, and suppression of smuggling. Achieving these requires the support of traditional institutions,” Kaila said.
Responding, the King Regent, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, assured the Command of continued cooperation, describing Badagry as a peaceful enclave committed to promoting legitimate trade and border security.
At Ibereko, the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori Kingdom, Oba Israel Okoya, pledged to mobilise community support for Customs operations, affirming that local youths are committed to lawful conduct and would align with government objectives.
Similarly, the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye, commended Kaila as a seasoned professional and assured him of sustained support in maintaining peace and facilitating Customs operations within his domain.
In a move to reinforce inter-agency synergy, Kaila also visited the 653 Nigerian Air Force Base in Ahanve, Badagry, where Commanding Officer, Group Captain Hungruy Medugu, reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to joint operations with Customs.
“Our collaboration has been instrumental to successes recorded in this area. We will continue to strengthen this partnership in pursuit of our shared mandate,” Medugu said.
Extending engagement beyond Nigeria’s borders, the Controller concluded the tour with a visit to the Benin Republic Police, signalling a cross-border approach to addressing impediments to trade and enhancing regional cooperation.
The outreach forms part of the Command’s broader strategy to create a more efficient, secure, and business-friendly environment along one of West Africa’s busiest trade corridors.
