By Sabiu Abdullahi
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has praised the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its proactive efforts in securing the nation’s borders and facilitating trade.
Ribadu made this commendation when the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, paid him a courtesy visit at his office in Abuja on Thursday.
During the meeting, Adeniyi showed the NCS’s adoption of advanced technology, such as Geospatial technology, to enhance surveillance, intelligence gathering, and enforcement at Nigeria’s land and maritime borders.
Speaking these efforts, the NSA stated, “The Customs Service has demonstrated a commendable commitment to modernization and efficiency in securing our borders. Integrating advanced technology into border management is a step in the right direction and aligns perfectly with our broader national security objectives.”
In his response, Adeniyi expressed gratitude for the NSA’s recognition of the service’s efforts. He reaffirmed the NCS’s commitment to using technology to curb smuggling, trafficking, and other transborder crimes.
“We are committed to deploying cutting-edge solutions to combat smuggling, trafficking, and other transborder crimes,” Adeniyi said.
“Our goal is to ensure that our borders are secure, while also facilitating seamless and legitimate cross-border transactions.”
He also explained that the NCS’s technology-driven strategies are designed to align with international best practices while addressing Nigeria’s unique border security challenges.
“Technology remains the key to effective border management in today’s rapidly evolving security landscape,” Adeniyi noted.
“We will continue to invest in advanced technology and build strategic partnerships to enhance our border security and trade facilitation efforts.”
The NSA assured Adeniyi of continued support for the NCS’s modernization drive and emphasized the importance of collaboration in intelligence sharing and operational coordination.
The meeting stated the need for inter-agency cooperation in addressing security threats and maintaining national stability.