The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun 1 Command, Idiroko, has intensified intelligence-driven operations to combat rising cases of drug abuse and smuggling along the Nigeria–Benin Republic border.
The Acting Area Controller, DC Olukayode Afeni, disclosed this recently noting that the Command has strengthened its intelligence network to prevent dangerous drugs and harmful substances from entering the country through the Idiroko/Igolo corridor.
According to him, the Command is targeting narcotics, controlled pharmaceuticals, and abused over-the-counter drugs that often find their way into the hands of young people.
“We are leveraging intelligence to ensure that narcotics and other dangerous pharmaceutical products do not find their way into the country through this route.
“The youths are the primary victims of these substances, and we must proactively protect them”, Afeni said.
Describing the Idiroko–Igolo axis as a complex terrain with multiple illegal entry points, the Controller explained that the Command has adopted a strategic enforcement model aimed at minimizing casualties while effectively dismantling smuggling networks.
“Our strategy allows us to gather actionable intelligence, monitor movements, and strike when smugglers are most vulnerable. This reduces unnecessary confrontation and minimises casualties, especially on the Customs side”, he explained, adding that smugglers often operate without regard for human lives.
Beyond enforcement, the Command is deploying Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives as a preventive strategy to address the root causes of smuggling. Afeni revealed that the Command is empowering local communities with vocational skills such as tailoring, tie-and-dye, garri processing, hairdressing, fashion design, and soap-making to create alternative sources of livelihood.
“We are consolidating on the successes of our predecessors by collaborating closely with host communities. Through CSR programmes and initiatives like our annual Art Festival—now in its 5th editionwe are showing the people that there are legitimate ways to earn a living. Smuggling is not the only option”, he stated.
The Command is also engaging youths and students through sensitisation campaigns to highlight the dangers of smuggling and promote compliance with trade regulations.
On officer morale, Afeni affirmed that personnel remain highly motivated to defend the nation’s borders, particularly against the influx of arms and ammunition.
“Our officers understand the gravity of their responsibility. If illegal arms enter the country, anyone could become a victim. The Nigeria Customs Service, under the leadership of the Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, is providing the necessary support and incentives to keep officers motivated and effective”, he said.
Although the Idiroko Command is not primarily revenue-driven, Afeni noted that it still contributes to federal revenue through enforcement activities and cargo assessments. He expressed optimism that improved infrastructure would further enhance operational efficiency.
He also confirmed that the Idiroko–Igolo border remains open, with legitimate cross-border trade ongoing.
The Command, he said, is working to streamline procedures for Nigeria-made goods destined for Benin Republic while preventing abuse of export processes.
“We ensure that goods leaving Nigeria through this axis are legitimate and properly documented. While Lilypond Export Command remains the designated export processing hub, we support legitimate trade within our operational capacity”, he added.
Reaffirming the Command’s commitment, Afeni stressed that Ogun 1 Customs remains resolute in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders, curbing drug abuse, and fostering economic growth through intelligence-led enforcement and community engagement.