The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded significant seizures of narcotics, pharmaceuticals, rice, petroleum products and used clothing during a joint border security operation with the Benin Customs Administration.
The seizures were made during Operation GEOCONTROL, conducted from June 29 to July 8, 2026, along the Benin–Nigeria border corridor under the World Customs Organisation (WCO)–Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Joint Project. Four suspects were also detained during the operation.
According to the consolidated results contained in the post-operation report dated August 2, 2026, the Benin Customs Administration recorded 31 seizures across 10 targeted areas.
The National Public Relations Officer of the NCS, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada, said the operation underscored the importance of international cooperation, intelligence sharing and technology-driven border management in combating transnational smuggling.
Maiwada stated that the collaboration among the WCO, JICA, NCS and Benin Customs Administration demonstrated how shared intelligence, geospatial tools and coordinated operational planning could strengthen enforcement across common borders.
“The successful implementation of Operation GEOCONTROL highlights the importance of sustained international cooperation, capacity development and technology-driven border management in addressing transnational smuggling,” he said.
He added that the partnership demonstrated the effectiveness of coordinated border enforcement in tackling illicit activities that transcend national boundaries.
The operation marked the first operational deployment of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) capabilities developed through the GEOINT Master Trainer Programme for West Africa, which was completed in February 2026.
The initiative was designed to identify smuggling hotspots, map high-risk routes, strengthen intelligence sharing and support coordinated Customs enforcement through geospatial analysis, aerial surveillance and field deployment.
According to the NCS, risk maps and hotspot analyses played a key role in guiding intelligence-led field activities, while the exchange of operational information enhanced coordination between the Nigerian and Beninese Customs administrations.
The exercise also provided an opportunity to apply the skills acquired through the GEOINT Master Trainer Programme to practical border security challenges, demonstrating the value of technology and specialised training in improving enforcement capabilities.
The Nigeria Customs Service reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cooperation with international partners and neighbouring Customs administrations to strengthen border security, improve intelligence sharing and facilitate legitimate trade.
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