Author: Opeyemi Omodara.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced its commitment to inter-agency collaboration with the military to boost security across the North East.
This follows a courtesy visit by the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Borno/Yobe Area Command, Comptroller Abubakar Idris, and his delegation to the Theatre Commander, North East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, at Maimalari Barracks, Maiduguri, Borno State, on Thursday, 12 February 2026.
According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Abubakar Ubali, the visit aimed to consolidate existing ties and explore innovative strategies, including the use of geospatial technology, to curb insecurity, combat cross-border crimes, and enhance intelligence sharing in the region.
Speaking during the engagement, Comptroller Idris commended the Armed Forces for their resilience and patriotism in the fight against insurgency, stressing that sustainable security requires coordinated efforts among agencies.
“We recognise the immense sacrifices of the military in safeguarding lives and property in the North East. The NCS remains committed to supporting ongoing operations through enhanced intelligence sharing, strict border control measures and collaborative strategies to curb smuggling and other transnational crimes,” he said.
The CAC added that effective inter-agency cooperation would not only improve security outcomes but also promote legitimate trade and economic growth in Borno and Yobe States.
In response, Major General Abubakar described security as a collective responsibility demanding sustained collaboration among institutions.
“Security is not the responsibility of a single agency. It requires synergy, intelligence exchange and coordinated operations. We are ready to continue working closely with the NCS, given its critical role in border management and national security,” he stated.
The Theatre Commander also highlighted the importance of leveraging geospatial technology to enhance operational effectiveness, disrupt illicit networks, and curb potential threats within the region.
