Compt Kaila pushes for smoother cross-border trade operations along Lagos-Abidjan corridor

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has intensified efforts to eliminate trade bottlenecks affecting the seamless movement of goods and services along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor through strategic stakeholder engagement and collaboration.

Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Abdullahi Kaila, disclosed this during a series of familiarisation visits to traditional rulers, security agencies, and border authorities as part of efforts to strengthen partnerships and advance the Service’s core mandates.

Speaking during a visit to the Palace of the Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, the Customs boss 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 traditional ruler across border communities.

In release by Superintendent of Customs Tunde Ayagbalo, Customs Public Relations Officer(PRO), Seme Area Command, Kaila said his visit was aimed at introducing himself as the new Area Controller and soliciting the support of traditional institutions in achieving Customs’ objectives.

At the Late HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, Oba Akran of Badagry Palace

“Our priority remains revenue generation, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling operations. Without the support and cooperation of traditional rulers, effective discharge of our duties as Customs officers will be difficult,” he said.

Responding, the King Regent of Badagry Kingdom, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, assured the Command of continued support.

“Badagry is a peaceful town, and we will continue to collaborate with Customs in safeguarding our borders and promoting legitimate trade,” Ogunbiyi stated.

At the Palace of the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori Kingdom, Oba Israel Okoya also pledged support to the Service, promising to continue sensitising residents on lawful conduct.

“Be assured that I will always speak to my people whenever necessary. Our youths do not engage in illegal activities, and we will support Customs in achieving government objectives,” the monarch said.

Similarly, the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, HRM Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye, commended Comptroller Kaila, describing him as a seasoned and highly respected officer.

“I assure you of my support. Our border has remained peaceful because our youths respect traditional authority, and with your presence, things will improve further,” he noted.

As part of efforts to strengthen inter-agency cooperation, Kaila also visited the 653 Nigerian Air Force Base, Ahanve-Badagry, where the Commanding Officer, Group Captain Hungruy Medugu, reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting Customs operations.

“Our collaboration has contributed to several successes in this area. Your visit further strengthens the bond between both agencies,” Medugu said.

The Customs Area Controller concluded the tour with a visit to the Republic of Benin Police Office, underscoring the Command’s commitment to strengthening trans-border cooperation and removing barriers hindering free trade along the international corridor.

Republic of Benin Police Chief and Comptroller Kaila 

The engagement, according to the Command, reflects ongoing efforts to improve trade facilitation, suppress smuggling, and align border operations with the Federal Government’s economic agenda.