Seme Customs Boosts Ties to Tackle Smuggling, Strengthen Border Protection
By Lucy Nyambi
In a bid to strengthen collaboration and enhance operational efficiency, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) in charge of Seme Area Command, Comptroller Benedict Oramalugo, has paid courtesy visits to key traditional leaders and security agencies in Badagry, Lagos State.
According to a statement signed by the command’s public relations officer, Chief Superintendent of Customs, Isah Sulaiman, the visit, which took place between 19 and 20 February 2025, emphasised the Command’s unwavering commitment to promoting strong relationships with stakeholders, reinforcing security measures and promoting seamless trade facilitation in the region.
During the engagement, Comptroller Oramalugo paid homage to the Oba Akran of Badagry and the Oba of Iberoko, acknowledging the crucial role of traditional institutions in maintaining peace and stability.
He stressed that effective stakeholder collaboration is vital in achieving the command’s objectives.
“Our mission at Seme Area Command goes beyond revenue collection; it extends to ensuring national security and fostering economic growth. Strong partnerships with traditional institutions and security agencies are vital in achieving these objectives,” he stated.
He also visited top security formations, including the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base, the Nigerian Army 243 RECCE Battalion Regiment, the Nigeria Police Division, Badagry and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Discussions centred on strengthening intelligence-sharing, improving border security, and tackling smuggling and other transborder crimes.
Comptroller Oramalugo sought their collaboration, stating, “I need your collaboration to succeed in Seme Area Command. I want your assurance that when we are overwhelmed with smugglers, you will always come to assist us in combating them.
“I am here to build synergy with other security agencies so that I can succeed like I did in other commands”, he concluded.
