Customs Rallies Ogun Traditional Rulers Against Smuggling

July 11, 2024

THE Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, led by Comptroller James Ojo, is seeking to foster sustainable collaboration and synergy to enhance economic growth and security along Nigeria’s borders with the Republic of Benin through intelligence sharing and collaborative anti-smuggling operations.

Comptroller Ojo harped on this during a courtesy visit to the Alake of Egbaland, other traditional rulers and sister security agencies in Ogun State.

During his visit, Comptroller Ojo met with the Alake and paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo and other revered traditional rulers in the state.

Customs generate N12.9bn in six months from excise duty payments

He expressed deep appreciation for their support and emphasised the crucial role traditional rulers played in maintaining peace, order and security within their communities.

Comptroller Ojo highlighted the importance of leveraging traditional institutions’ influence and insights to enhance border security and combat smuggling activities effectively.

His visit also included fruitful discussions with sister security agencies in the state.

The courtesy visit aligns with the policy thrust of the Comptroller-General of Customs, who has emphasised the principles of consolidation, collaboration and innovation.

Comptroller Ojo reiterated the commitment of his command to these principles, noting that such engagements were crucial for fostering a secure and prosperous environment for the people of Ogun State and Nigeria at large.

He also acknowledged the strategic importance of the state’s borders with the Republic of Benin and the need for a united front in combating smuggling and other economic crimes.

The responses from all the critical stakeholders visited were positive and impressive.

The CAC was assured of continuous support and collaboration with Ogun I Area Command and was accorded a warm reception throughout his visit.

The sister security agencies visited included the Nigerian Police Force, 35 Artillery Brigade Nigerian Army, Federal Road Safety Corps, Defence Intelligence Agency and Nigeria Correctional Service among others.