Customs Strengthens Border Ties to Boost Lagos-Abidjan Trade Corridor

Kathy Kyari
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has intensified efforts to eliminate trade barriers along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor through strategic engagement with traditional rulers and security agencies, as part of moves to enhance seamless movement of goods and services.

The Area Controller, Comptroller Abdullahi Kaila, disclosed this during a series of familiarisation visits to traditional institutions and sister security agencies in Badagry, underscoring the Command’s commitment to aligning with the Federal Government’s economic agenda.
At the Palace of the Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, the Customs boss condoled with the royal family and the people of Badagry over the passing of HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, described as a respected traditional ruler across border communities.

He stated, "The purpose of my visit is to introduce myself as the Area Controller of Seme Command and to equally seek your royal blessing and support to achieve the core mandate of the service. Our priority remains to generate revenue, facilitate trade, and suppress smuggling.

"And we in the Customs believe that without due support and co-operation from traditional rulers, we can not have effective performance of our functions as Customs officers."

Responding, the King Regent, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, pledged continued support, noting that Badagry remains peaceful and cooperative.
"We have listened to your request. Know that Badagry is a very peaceful town, and we will keep collaborating with you in safeguarding our borders and in promoting legitimate trade," he said.

The Controller also visited the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori Kingdom, where Oba Israel Okoya assured Customs of community backing in tackling illegal activities.

"I welcome you to Badagry and be rest assured that I will always talk to my people whenever the need is required. In our town, our youth does not engage in illegalities as I have no other choice than to assist you in achieving the government mandate," the monarch stated.

Similarly, at the Palace of the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, HRM Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye commended Comptroller Kaila, describing him as a seasoned professional.
"I promise you that I will always assist you in my area for anything that you need. Our border here has been peaceful because our youth always listen to the elders, and I know with your present here, things will change for the better," he said.

In furtherance of inter-agency collaboration, the Area Controller visited the Headquarters of the 653 Nigerian Air Force Base in Ahanve, Badagry. The Commanding Officer, Group Captain Humphrey Medugu, reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting Customs operations.

"Our collaboration has been key to various successes we have recorded in our area of responsibility. Your presence here strengthens existing bonds of inter-agency collaboration between both Services, and we will not take it for granted," he noted.

The familiarisation tour also extended to the Republic of Benin Police, signalling renewed cross-border cooperation aimed at removing obstacles to trade and ensuring smoother movement of goods and services across the corridor.