Customs, defence agency collaborate on indigenous airboat technology to boost maritime security

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB) have taken a significant step in enhancing maritime security by jointly testing a locally built airboat at Jabi Lake, Abuja.

The airboat, designed to navigate shallow and hard-to-reach waterways, is expected to be a valuable asset in the fight against smuggling and other maritime crimes.

Speaking last Wednesday, 3 September 2025, at the test-run exercise, Comptroller Haniel Haddison, who oversees Special Duties at NCS Headquarters, hailed the innovation as a milestone in indigenous technology, emphasised that the collaboration highlights the commitment of both agencies to leverage indigenous technology and synergy in addressing evolving security threats.

Experts at the exercise explained the boat’s unique capabilities, positioning it as a valuable addition to Nigeria’s security arsenal.

Comptroller Hardison said, “This is a welcome idea for the Nigeria Customs Service and we commend the efforts of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, to ensure that we add value in our equipment”.

He continues, ” This is a very good collaboration and that is what the Comptroller-General of Customs stands for – Synergy and Collaboration with sister agencies, particularly as it relates to capacity building. This will add value to the competency and capability of the Nigeria Customs Service”.

Director of Maritime, Research and Development at the DRDB, Rear Admiral Suleiman El-Ladan highlighted the significance of inter-agency collaboration in strengthening maritime security. He noted that partnerships such as this were crucial to addressing evolving threats.

The exercise ended on a symbolic note, as the Director General of the Defence Research and Development Bureau presented souvenirs to the two senior Customs officers in recognition of their participation and commitment.