Olayinka Akinpelu
The Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Area Command, Comptroller Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu, has reaffirmed his commitment to ending incessant clashes between smugglers and officers during a courtesy visit to traditional rulers and security agencies in Ogun State.
During the visit, Comptroller Shuaibu met with the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, CFR, along with other traditional leaders, including the Olu of Owode, Oba Rev. MS Akindele JP, and the Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewa land, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle.
The visit was aimed at fostering collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and key stakeholders to enhance border security and economic stability.
Addressing the monarchs, Comptroller Shuaibu acknowledged the crucial role of traditional leaders in maintaining peace and security within their domains.
He expressed gratitude for their continuous support and emphasized the need to leverage their influence in combating smuggling and other cross-border crimes.
In addition to engaging with traditional rulers, the Customs chief also held discussions with sister security agencies in Ogun State.
The meetings underscored the necessity of sustained collaboration between the NCS, the Nigerian Police Force, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), and the Department of State Security Services (DSS).
He stressed that intelligence sharing and resource pooling were critical in countering smuggling activities and ensuring national security.
Comptroller Shuaibu highlighted the strategic importance of Ogun State’s borders with the Republic of Benin, reiterating the need for a united front against economic crimes.
He assured that the NCS would continue deploying innovative measures to secure Nigeria’s borders and promote economic growth.
The security agencies assured the NCS of their continued support and cooperation in tackling smuggling and other illicit activities.
Expressing optimism about the visit’s outcomes, Comptroller Shuaibu urged all stakeholders to remain committed to fostering synergy for a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.
