By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has made a significant stride in enhancing its air surveillance capabilities with the acquisition of a Cessna Grand Caravan EX-208B aircraft.
This move is part of Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC) Bashir Adewale Adeniyi’s efforts to revitalize the NCS airwing operations.
The Cessna Grand Caravan, registered as 5N-BAA, is a rugged and versatile aircraft, ideal for border security operations in Nigeria, thanks to its ability to operate on remote airstrips.
It is also fitted with the modern Garmin G1000 Avionics cockpit system, enabling operations under day, night, and low-visibility conditions. Powered by the reliable PT6 Pratt and Whitney engine, the aircraft has a six-hour aerial endurance and can carry 10 officers.
CGC Adeniyi hailed the acquisition as a “game-changer” for the NCS Airwing, enhancing air surveillance and border patrol capabilities. “This aircraft will be a game-changer for the Nigeria Customs Services’ Airwing. Its ability to carry 10 officers, coupled with its six-hour aerial endurance, will significantly enhance our capacity for air surveillance and border patrol,” he stated.
The aircraft will play a crucial role in detecting smuggling routes, deploying armed personnel, and providing swift support for ground operations.
According to CGC Adeniyi, the acquisition aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda. “With this aircraft, we will strengthen our air border patrol capabilities, which will not only help us intercept illegal activities but also provide quick extraction support when necessary,” he explained.
Capt. Kuhi Mbaya, Aircraft Operations Coordinator and Managing Director of Nigeria Customs Technical and Hangar Services Ltd, praised the acquisition as a milestone for the NCS aviation unit.
“With this aircraft, the Nigeria Customs Service is poised to revitalize its air border patrol activities, securing our borders more effectively and improving revenue generation for both the Service and the nation,” he stated.
The acquisition of the Cessna Grand Caravan is expected to provide significant tactical advantages to the Nigeria Customs Service, tightening border security and sending a clear signal to economic saboteurs that the Service is better equipped than ever to combat smuggling activities.