The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has intensified efforts to eliminate trade bottlenecks hindering the free movement of goods and services along the Lagos–Abidjan corridor through enhanced stakeholder engagement and inter-agency collaboration.
Customs Area Controller of the Command, Comptroller Timi Bomodi Kaila, disclosed this during a series of familiarisation visits to traditional institutions and security agencies in Badagry, Lagos State.
The visits, according to him, are part of strategic steps to align the Command’s operations with Federal Government economic policies while strengthening partnerships critical to trade facilitation and border security.
During a visit to the Palace of the Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, the Area Controller commiserated with the royal family and the people of Badagry over the passing of the late monarch, HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, described as a highly respected traditional ruler across border communities.
Kaila noted that the purpose of the visit was to formally introduce himself and seek royal support in achieving the core mandates of the Service, which include revenue generation, trade facilitation, and suppression of smuggling.
“Our priority remains to generate revenue, facilitate trade, and suppress smuggling. We recognise that without the support and cooperation of traditional rulers, effective performance of our duties would be difficult,” he said.
Responding, the King Regent, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, assured the Command of continued cooperation, describing Badagry as a peaceful community committed to safeguarding its borders and promoting legitimate trade.
The Customs boss also visited the Palace of the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori Kingdom, Oba Israel Okoya, who pledged support for Customs operations and reiterated his commitment to maintaining discipline among youths in the border community.
Similarly, at the Palace of the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, HRM Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye commended Comptroller Kaila, describing him as a seasoned and respected officer. The monarch assured the Command of sustained cooperation to ensure peace and improved border management.
In furtherance of inter-agency collaboration, 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 supporting Customs operations.
“Our collaboration has been key to the successes recorded in our area of responsibility. Your visit further strengthens our existing partnership,” Medugu said.
The familiarisation tour also extended beyond Nigeria’s borders, as the Area Controller visited the Republic of Benin Police, signalling a renewed commitment to cross-border cooperation aimed at enhancing trade facilitation and curbing illicit activities.
The Seme Area Command noted that these engagements are critical to dismantling trade barriers and fostering a more efficient and secure business environment along the Lagos–Abidjan corridor.
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