Customs Strengthens Inter-Agency Synergy in Kwara, Seeks Enhanced Border Protection
Author: Opeyemi Omodara.
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Kwara Area Command, has reinforced its operational collaboration with sister security agencies through a series of strategic visits by the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Najeem Ogundeyi.
In a statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs, Sani Suleiman, on Friday, 13 February 2026, the visits were described as part of the Acting Area Controller’s management strategy following his assumption of office on Tuesday, 16 December 2025.
According to the statement, DC Ogundeyi explained that the outreach aligns with the policy thrust of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, which prioritises collaboration and inter-agency cooperation in addressing national security concerns.
He noted that strengthening synergy among security agencies is critical to effectively tackling evolving security challenges in Kwara State.
“Upon assuming office, I considered it a priority to engage with my counterparts to familiarise myself and further consolidate the existing cooperation between our organisations,” he said.
The Acting Area Controller emphasised that no single agency can successfully address security threats in isolation, stressing that a united front would create a conducive environment for the execution of their respective mandates and ensure peaceful coexistence in the state.
He further acknowledged the strong working relationship established by his predecessor, attributing the Command’s recent operational successes to the high level of cooperation among security agencies. DC Ogundeyi assured stakeholders that his administration would be anchored on professionalism, transparency, mutual respect, and strict adherence to the rule of law.
“I am here to cement the established rapport between our services. I seek the same level of cooperation and support accorded to my predecessor. Together, we shall work diligently to secure our national borders and achieve our collective objectives,” he added.
The statement also reiterated that while the Service is primarily responsible for revenue generation and trade facilitation, its role in national security and the protection of lives and property remains paramount.
In their separate responses, the heads of sister agencies welcomed the Acting Controller and pledged continued intelligence sharing and operational support.
Agencies visited during the engagement include the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigeria Correctional Service, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Department of State Services, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, among others.
