The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is ramping up efforts to deploy advanced technology to strengthen border security, intelligence gathering, and enforcement operations.
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, reaffirmed this commitment during a courtesy visit to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, on Wednesday.
Adeniyi emphasized the critical role of technology in modern border management, particularly in combating smuggling, trafficking, and other cross-border crimes.
He highlighted the NCS’s adoption of Geospatial technology as a key component of its surveillance strategy, aligning with global best practices while addressing Nigeria’s unique border security challenges.
“Technology remains the key to effective border management in today’s rapidly evolving security landscape. The Nigeria Customs Service is committed to deploying Geospatial technology and other innovative tools to enhance our surveillance, intelligence gathering, and enforcement capabilities. These efforts are designed to align with international best practices while addressing Nigeria’s unique border security challenges,” the CGC stated.
He further explained that these technology-driven measures would not only help curb illicit activities but also facilitate legitimate cross-border trade, ensuring a more efficient and transparent system.
Responding to the Adeniyi’s remarks, Ribadu, commended the Service for its proactive approach, recognising the critical role of technological advancements in national security and trade facilitation.
“The Customs Service has demonstrated a commendable commitment to modernisation and efficiency in securing our borders. Integrating advanced technology into border management is a step in the right direction and aligns perfectly with our broader national security objectives. We are confident that these innovations will enhance border control operations while ensuring that legitimate trade is not hindered,” the NSA remarked.
The discussions also reinforced the need for stronger inter-agency collaboration in addressing security threats and ensuring national stability even as Ribadu assured Adeniyi of continued support for Customs’ modernisation drive, stressing the importance of intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement strategies to bolster Nigeria’s border security framework.
(The Nation)
