The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun Area 1 Command, has solicited the support of security agencies and traditional rulers towards curbing smuggling and others economic crimes at the border areas.

The new Area Comptroller, Mr James Ojo, made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Alake and Paramount ruler of Egbaland, other traditional rulers and security agencies on Thursday in Abeokuta.

During the visit, the Customs boss met with the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, His Royal Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, and other revered traditional rulers in Ogun State.

Ojo explained that the strategic visit aims to foster sustainable collaboration and synergy to enhance economic growth and security along Nigeria’s borders with the Republic of Benin through intelligence sharing and collaborative anti-smuggling operations.

He expressed deep appreciation for their unwavering support and emphasised the crucial role traditional rulers played in maintaining peace, order, and security within their communities.

Ojo highlighted the importance of leveraging traditional institutions’ influence and insights to enhance border security and combat smuggling activities effectively.

“His visit to others security agencies was also fruitful because these engagements underscored the need for continuous and robust collaboration among security agencies to address the challenges posed by smuggling and other cross-border crimes.

“Also, by sharing intelligence, resources, and expertise, the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies can create a formidable front against those who seek to undermine Nigeria’s economic stability and national security.”

“The courtesy visit also aligned with the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, who has emphasised the principles of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation,” he said.

Ojo reiterated the commitment of the Command to these principles, adding that such engagements are crucial for fostering a secure and prosperous environment for the people of Ogun State and Nigeria at large.

The Customs boss emphasised the need of strategic importance of Ogun State’s borders with the Republic of Benin and the need for a united front in combating smuggling and other economic crimes.

Ojo assured that the NCS, in collaboration with traditional rulers and security agencies, will continue to implement intelligent and innovative strategies to safeguard the nation’s borders and promote economic growth.

According to him, the responses from all the critical stakeholders visited were positive and impressive as they assured him of their continuous supports and collaborationd with the Command.

Ojo expressed optimism about the positive outcomes of his visit and the strengthened relationships with traditional rulers and security agencies and called for ongoing cooperation, vigilance, and commitment to tackling the challenges ahead.

The Customs boss affirmed that the Command is dedicated to working in the spirit of unity and shared purpose to achieve their collective goals.

Other sister security agencies visited include the Nigerian Police Force, 35 Artillery Brigade Nigerian Army, Federal Road Safety Corps, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Nigeria Correctional Service, amongst others.