The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Niger/Kogi Area Command, is strengthening its strategic partnerships with sister security agencies to intensify the fight against smuggling, illicit drug trafficking, cross-border crimes and other security threats.
The Acting Customs Area Controller, Niger/Kogi Area Command, Deputy Comptroller Solomon Nwankwegu, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration during separate courtesy visits to the Comptroller of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Niger State Command, Comptroller Hope Maduka, and the Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Niger State Command, Commander Shehu Gwadabawa, on November 5, 2026.
The visits were aimed at strengthening institutional relationships, enhancing operational cooperation and promoting effective information and intelligence sharing to address security challenges in Niger State and beyond.
Speaking during the engagements, Nwankwegu stressed the importance of inter-agency synergy in tackling smuggling, illicit drug trafficking, cross-border crimes and other security threats.
He noted that effective collaboration, mutual support and timely intelligence sharing were essential to achieving common national security objectives and protecting the country’s economic interests.
Immigration Proposes Joint Activities
Responding, Maduka appreciated the visit and called for sustained cooperation among the agencies to strengthen their collective security responsibilities.
He proposed the periodic organisation of friendly sporting activities among the agencies to promote unity, improve interpersonal relationships and foster team spirit among officers, particularly those whose operational duties require them to spend considerable time in the field.
The Immigration Comptroller also wished Nwankwegu a successful tenure and assured him of the Service’s continued cooperation and support.
NDLEA Emphasises Intelligence Sharing
Similarly, Gwadabawa welcomed the Customs delegation and provided an overview of the NDLEA’s operations, highlighting its statutory responsibilities, operational activities and ongoing efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse.
He emphasised the need for stronger inter-agency cooperation, intelligence sharing and mutual support in tackling security challenges.
The engagements provided an opportunity for the agencies to exchange ideas, identify areas of mutual interest and reinforce their commitment to improved security, effective law enforcement and public safety.
The Niger/Kogi Area Command reiterated its commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships with relevant government and security agencies in line with the policy direction of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, towards enhanced security, trade facilitation and national development.