The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Seme Area Command, has intensified efforts to eliminate trade barriers along the Lagos–Abidjan corridor through strategic engagement with key stakeholders, including traditional rulers and security agencies in border communities.
The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Abdullahi Shuaibu Kaila, disclosed this during a series of familiarisation visits across Badagry, aimed at strengthening collaboration and aligning with the Federal Government’s trade facilitation and economic objectives.
During a visit to the palace of the Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, the Controller commiserated with the royal family over the passing of the late monarch, HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, while also seeking traditional support for Customs operations.
He emphasised that effective border management depends heavily on cooperation with host communities.
“Our priority remains to generate revenue, facilitate trade, and suppress smuggling. Without the support of traditional institutions, achieving these mandates becomes difficult,” Kaila said.
Responding, the King Regent, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, assured the Command of continued support, describing Badagry as a peaceful town committed to promoting legitimate trade and safeguarding the border environment.
The Controller also visited the palace of the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori Kingdom, Oba Israel Okoya, who pledged to mobilise community support and ensure residents comply with lawful trade practices.
Similarly, at the palace of the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye, the monarch commended the Customs leadership, assuring of sustained cooperation to maintain peace and support border security operations.
As part of efforts to deepen inter-agency synergy, Comptroller Kaila visited the headquarters of the 653 Nigerian Air Force Base in Ahanve-Badagry, where the Commanding Officer, Group Captain Hungruy Medugu, reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to joint operations.
“Our collaboration has been key to past successes, and we will continue to support Customs in achieving its mandate,” Medugu stated.
The familiarisation tour also extended beyond Nigeria’s borders, with a visit to the Republic of Benin Police office, signalling renewed commitment to cross-border cooperation and seamless trade facilitation.
The Seme Area Command noted that these engagements are part of broader efforts to dismantle bottlenecks affecting the free movement of goods and services, while strengthening security and promoting lawful economic activities along one of West Africa’s busiest trade routes.
