By Olusegun Folarin
The Nigeria Customs Service is engaging traditional rulers and other security agencies in the efforts to promote intelligence sharing strategies and suppress smuggling activities in the country.
The Customs Area Controller, Ogun 1 Area Command, Mr Muhammed Shuaibu made the submission during a series of courtesy visits to traditional rulers and heads of different security outfits in Ogun State.
Mr Shuaibu told the monarchs, including the Alake and Paramount ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo as well as the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle that their support remained crucial to further sensitize residents to the dangers of smuggling and other crimes.
The Customs Area Controller applauded the kings for preserving the peace, order, and security within their communities, urging them to deploy their experience towards mobilizing greater support for the efforts at improving border security and the fight against smuggling.
He said such collaborations would help to improve economic growth and security along the Nigeria – Benin Republic borders and put an end to incessant clashes between suspected smugglers and Customs operatives.
During the visits to the Heads of Security Agents, Mr Shuaibu solicited their partnership in the areas of exchanging intelligence, resources, and expertise to form a strong front against all activities capable of putting the country’s security and economic stability in jeopardy.
The Agencies included the Nigerian Police Force, the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, the Nigerian Immigration Service and the Department of State Security Services.
Affirming the strategic importance of Ogun State as gateway to neighbouring countries, particularly through the borders with Benin Republic, all the traditional rulers and Security Chiefs agreed to work with the Nigeria Customs on the need for a united front in the battle against smuggling and other crimes.
The stakeholders expressed commitment to using innovative and resourceful strategies to safeguard the nation’s borders and promote economic growth through continued collaboration, cooperation and dedication to addressing identified challenges.
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