To reaffirm and strengthen the existing collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Customs Area Controller of the Oyo/Osun Area Command, Comptroller Joseph Olugbuyi Adelaja, has paid a courtesy visit to the NSCDC Headquarters in Ibadan on Tuesday 18 March ,2025.
The Public Relations Officer of the Command, Abdulmalik Abiodun Akintola who disclosed this in a press release said while delivering his address, Comptroller Adelaja, who was accompanied by principal officers of the Command, expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to visit the NSCDC Command, acknowledging the agency’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding national assets, ensuring public safety, and maintaining peace and security across the nation.
In his remarks to the principal officers of the NSCDC, Comptroller Adelaja outlined the core functions of the Nigeria Customs Service, including revenue generation, facilitation of legitimate trade, and suppression of smuggling. He acknowledged that the combined efforts of both agencies are crucial to achieving optimal security and promoting lawful trade across the country.
The Customs Area Controller commended the NSCDC’s commitment to safeguarding critical infrastructure and combating vandalism. He noted that the dedication of the NSCDC complements the efforts of the Nigeria Customs Service in securing the nation’s borders and enhancing lawful trade activities.
Recognising the evolving security challenges, Comptroller Adelaja emphasized the importance of enhancing collaboration between the agencies in areas such as intelligence sharing, capacity building, and public sensitization.
The NSCDC State Commandant, Augustine Ayodeji Padonu in his response, appreciated the visit of the Customs Area Controller, he reiterated that the NSCDC antecedent of a cordial relationship with the Nigeria Customs Service. He assured the Customs Area Controller on leveraging on the already existing relationship between both agencies.
Speaking further, the Commandant emphasised on the importance of intelligence sharing and operational consolidation in enhancing the discharge of the primary duties of both agencies. He made mention of the need to sensitize the junior ranks officers of both agencies concerning unhealthy rivalry and making them realize that both agencies share a common goal of protecting the members of the public and safeguarding the nation’s borders.
On behalf of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, and the entire management team of the Oyo/Osun Area Command, Comptroller Adelaja extended his sincere gratitude to the NSCDC Commandant and the management team for their warm reception during the visit.
