The Comptroller of the Oyo/Osun Customs Area Command, Joseph Adelaja, has emphasized the need for stronger collaboration and intelligence sharing among border agencies to effectively combat smuggling activities.
Speaking on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Nigeria Customs Liaison Office in Cotonou, Benin Republic, led by Chief Superintendent of Customs O.M. Olanrewaju, Adelaja highlighted the importance of synergy in border enforcement.
In a statement released by the command’s Assistant Superintendent of Customs II and Public Relations Officer, Abdulmalik Akintola, Adelaja reiterated that the visit aligns with the policy direction of the Comptroller-General of Customs, B.A. Adeniyi, which focuses on collaboration, consolidation, and innovation.
“Such collaboration is crucial in combating smuggling activities at border stations under the command’s jurisdiction,” he stated, assuring the visiting delegation of the Oyo/Osun Command’s full support in enhancing intelligence sharing and operational efficiency.
He also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to fostering strong inter-agency relationships to facilitate trade and ensure national security.
In response, Olanrewaju expressed gratitude for the warm reception and stated that the visit aimed to strengthen ties between the two Customs formations.
He outlined the key responsibilities of the Nigeria Customs Liaison Office, which include fostering cooperation between Nigerian and Beninese Customs, facilitating trade between both nations, organizing bilateral meetings, and enhancing intelligence gathering at border areas.
“Our operational responsibilities cover the Idiroko border, Kwara, and Oyo State borders, and we are fully committed to strengthening cooperation in these strategic areas,” Olanrewaju noted.
He stressed that reinforcing collaboration between border stations would significantly enhance anti-smuggling efforts and improve trade facilitation, which remains a core mandate of the Nigeria Customs Service.
