Smuggling: Ogun 1 Customs controller seeks support of Alake, other monarchs, sister security agencies

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

Given that smuggling has long plagued Nigeria’s economy, exacerbates security situations along the borders, Controller of Ogun 1 Areas Command of Nigeria Customs Service(NCS), Comptroller MS Shuaibu, has visited the Alake of Egbaland, other respected traditional rulers and sister security agencies in Ogun State.

Compt. Shuaibu made the strategic visits to promote long-term cooperation and synergy through intelligence sharing and suppression of smuggling activities within the jurisdiction of Ogun 1 Customs Area Command.

The controller took out time to visits the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo CFR, Olu of Owode Oba, Rev. MS Akindele JP and Olu of Ilaro, the Paramount Ruler of Yewa land, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle.

During the visits, the controller emphasized the vital role traditional leaders play in preserving peace, order, and security within their communities and conveyed his sincere gratitude for their steadfast support.

He noted that It’s crucial to draw on the experience and legacy of long-standing institutions to improve border security and successfully fight smuggling.

The Ogun 1 Customs boss had fruitful discussions with sister security agencies in the state, highlighting the existing collaboration between security agencies to combat the threats of smuggling and other cross-border crimes. Intelligence sharing among the security agencies helps to build a strong front against those who aim to jeopardize Nigeria’s national security and economic stability.

Shuaibu stressed the strategic importance of Ogun State’s borders with the Republic of Benin and the need for a united front in the battle against economic crimes like smuggling.

He pledged that the Nigeria Customs Service will keep using innovative and resourceful strategies to safeguard the nation’s borders and promote economic growth.

During the visits, the controller had engagement with the Nigerian Police Force, National Drugs and Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) and Department of State Security Services (DSS), among other sister security agencies.

He called for continued collaboration, cooperation and dedication to addressing any obstacles, highlighting the commitment of Ogun I Area Command to work together with other stakeholders to accomplish a common goal.

He also maintained that traditional rulers play a vital role in preserving peace, order, and security within their communities and conveyed his sincere gratitude for their steadfast support.

Comptroller Shuaibu also recognised the strategic importance of Ogun State’s borders with the Republic of Benin and pledged to continue using innovative strategies to safeguard Nigeria’s borders and promote economic growth.

In response, the stakeholders assured him of their continuous support and collaboration.

Comptroller Shuaibu’s commitment aligns with the vision of Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, aiming to create a united front against economic crimes and smuggling as Nigeria shares extensive land and maritime borders with neighboring countries as Benin, Niger, Chad and etc.