By Oluwatoyin Adegoke
As part of efforts to strengthen national security and suppress smuggling activities across border communities, the Nigeria Customs Service has emphasised the need for closer synergy with traditional rulers, in line with the Comptroller-General of Customs’ policy thrust on community engagement and strategic partnership.
Acting Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Area Command, Mr Oladapo Afeni, made this known during a strategic courtesy visit to the Onipokia of Ipokia Kingdom, Oba Yisa Olaniyan.
Mr Afeni noted that traditional institutions remain critical partners in the suppression of smuggling and the enhancement of national security, particularly in border communities like Ipokia.
He reiterated the core mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service, including trade facilitation, revenue generation and anti-smuggling operations, while urging the traditional council to continue sensitising residents on the dangers of illicit trade and its negative impact on national security and economic growth.
In his remark, the Onipokia of Ipokia Kingdom, Oba Olaniyan, commended the Comptroller-General of Customs for his transformative leadership anchored on global best practices.
The monarch encouraged the Acting Area Controller to discharge his duties without fear or favour and reaffirmed that Ipokia is a peaceful, law-abiding community committed to supporting the Federal Government’s economic and security objectives.
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