The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Oyo/Osun Command, Comptroller Joseph Adelaja, has emphasised the importance of enhancing collaboration between the the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in areas such as intelligence sharing, capacity building, and public sensitisation.
Adelaja laid the emphasis on Tuesday March 18, 2025, in recognition of the evolving security challenges, during his courtesy visit to NSCDC Headquarters in Ibadan, accompanied by principal officers of the Command.
During his address, the CAC expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to visit the NSCDC Command, acknowledging the agency’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding national assets, ensuring public safety, and maintaining peace and security across the nation.
The purpose of the visit, as highlighted by him, was to reaffirm and strengthen the existing collaboration between the NCS and the NSCDC. He emphasised that both agencies share a common goal of protecting the nation’s interests and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
In his remarks to the principal officers of the NSCDC, Adelaja outlined the core functions of the NCS, including revenue generation, facilitation of legitimate trade, and suppression of smuggling.
He acknowledged that the combined efforts of both agencies are crucial to achieving optimal security and promoting lawful trade across the country.
The CAC commended the NSCDC’s commitment to safeguarding critical infrastructure and combating vandalism.
He noted that the dedication of the NSCDC complements the efforts of the NCS in securing the nation’s borders and enhancing lawful trade activities.
The NSCDC State Commandant, Mr. Augustine Padonu, in his response, appreciated the visit of the CAC and reiterated that the NSCDC antecedent of a cordial relationship with the NCS.
He assured the CAC on leveraging on the already existing relationship between both agencies.
Speaking further, the Commandant emphasised on the importance of intelligence sharing and operational consolidation in enhancing the discharge of the primary duties of both agencies
He made mention of the need to sensitise the junior ranks officers of both agencies concerning unhealthy rivalry and making them realise that both agencies share a common goal of protecting the members of the public and safeguarding the nation’s borders.
Adelaja on behalf of the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, and the entire management team of his Command extended his sincere gratitude to the NSCDC Commandant and his management team for their warm reception during the visit.