The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, has disclosed that intelligence-led operations facilitated the interception of several arms shipments, including 844 rifles and 112,500 rounds of live ammunition at the Onne Seaport.
According to The PUNCH, Adeniyi shared this during the 18th Africa Security Watch Conference in Doha, Qatar, where he highlighted the Service’s achievements in securing Nigeria’s borders while facilitating trade.
In his keynote address, titled “Protecting National Security Through Effective Border Control: The Nigeria Customs Example”, Adeniyi emphasized the critical role of border management in safeguarding national security.
According to him, borders are not merely geographical demarcations but essential gateways to protecting citizens and fostering economic stability.
“Under my leadership, the NCS generated a record-breaking ₦5.1 trillion in revenue,” he said. “This achievement underscores the agency’s innovative use of technology and enhanced compliance frameworks, demonstrating the efficiency and resilience of our workforce.”
The Customs boss elaborated on how the Nigeria Customs Act 2023 has redefined the agency’s priorities to address emerging threats. The law, he explained, provides a robust framework for enhancing efficiency, fostering collaboration, and improving enforcement.
“Our intelligence-led operations have disrupted the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, which remain a significant threat to national security,” Adeniyi said.
He also highlighted the collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency which has resulted in numerous interceptions of illicit drugs.
In addition to tackling arms smuggling, Adeniyi shed light on efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.
He revealed that Customs officers intercepted 4,200 kilograms of pangolin scales and ivory, reflecting the agency’s commitment to biodiversity conservation and adherence to international treaties.
The Service has also taken strides against economic saboteurs. Through Operation Whirlwind, the NCS, in collaboration with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, intercepted over 695,000 liters of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit.
Adeniyi credited geospatial technologies, such as satellite feeds and geo-mapping, for enhancing surveillance and enforcement capabilities. “The use of these advanced tools ensures that our operations are both effective and sustainable,” he noted.
At the Gala/Award Night during the conference, the NCS was honored with the ‘Best National Security Service in West, East, and Central Africa 2023/2024’ award. Adeniyi also received individual recognition for his exceptional leadership and contributions.
“These awards validate our efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s borders, enhance trade facilitation, and curb transnational crimes through innovative strategies and technological advancements,” Adeniyi stated.
