The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has intensified efforts to secure Nigeria’s borders ahead of the forthcoming elections, engaging traditional institutions in a high-level push to curb illegal importation of arms and contraband.
Leading the initiative, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Oladapo Afeni, paid a strategic courtesy visit to the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, the Olu of Ilaro, His Royal Majesty Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, at his palace in Ilaro, Ogun State.
The visit focused on strengthening pre-election security measures, particularly preventing the influx of small arms, light weapons, and illicit drugs through the state’s porous land borders.
Afeni подчеркнул the strategic importance of Yewaland due to its proximity to international frontiers, describing the community as a critical partner in safeguarding national stability.
“Our borders must not become gateways for elements seeking to destabilize our democratic process,” he stated, adding that the Service is enforcing a strict zero-tolerance policy against the smuggling of dangerous goods.
He disclosed that the Command has scaled up surveillance operations across border corridors, introduced round-the-clock monitoring of known smuggling routes, and enhanced inspection protocols for transit goods to prevent concealment of prohibited items. The Controller also highlighted efforts to establish direct communication channels with border communities to improve intelligence gathering.
In response, Oba Olugbenle commended the Customs Service for its proactive approach and pledged the support of the Yewa people in maintaining peace and security.
“The throne will continue to sensitise our youths and residents against aiding illegal trade. We all desire peaceful elections, and that begins with preventing the circulation of weapons”, the monarch said.
As part of the broader border security tour, Afeni also visited key traditional rulers across frontier communities, including the Onihumbe of Ohumbe, Oba Adekola Oje Oladokun, and the Olu of Owode, Oba Mathew Akindele.
During these engagements, he reiterated the importance of community collaboration in combating smuggling, emphasizing that while Customs remains committed to facilitating legitimate trade, it will not compromise on enforcement.
“We are not here to hinder trade but to promote lawful commerce. By working closely with traditional institutions and border communities, we can create an environment that is hostile to smugglers but conducive for genuine business,” he said.
The renewed engagement underscores the NCS’s strategy of leveraging grassroots partnerships to strengthen border security and ensure a peaceful electoral process.