Author: Opeyemi Omodara.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Borno/Yobe Area Command, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have reinforced their commitment to closer collaboration aimed at combating economic crimes and strengthening border security in Nigeria’s North-East.
This follows a familiarisation visit by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Idris Abdullahi, to the EFCC Zonal Director in Maiduguri, Aisha Habib, on Thursday, 23 April 2026.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs (DSC) Muhammad Ubali, the engagement focused on enhancing intelligence sharing, joint operations, and capacity building between both agencies.
Speaking during the visit, Comptroller Abdullahi highlighted the growing need for synergy among security and enforcement agencies, noting that crimes such as smuggling and money laundering often cut across institutional mandates.
“No single agency can effectively tackle economic sabotage and insecurity alone. Customs enforcement activities often expose financial trails, while EFCC investigations reveal cross-border criminal networks,” he stated.
He commended the EFCC for its sustained efforts in tackling financial crimes, stressing that stronger collaboration would improve operational efficiency and national security outcomes.
In her response, the EFCC Zonal Director, Aisha Habib, described the visit as both timely and strategic, underscoring the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing evolving security threats in the region.
She reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness to support joint enforcement initiatives and deepen intelligence exchange to dismantle criminal networks operating within and beyond the North-East.
The statement further disclosed that both agencies agreed to establish a direct liaison framework to facilitate swift communication and coordinated responses on issues of mutual interest, including trade-based money laundering and wildlife trafficking.
The visit concluded with a tour of key EFCC facilities, as well as an exchange of souvenirs, symbolising a renewed commitment to partnership.
The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by the NCS Borno/Yobe Area Command to strengthen collaboration with critical stakeholders in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders, economy, and financial system.
