The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has intensified efforts to eliminate trade barriers affecting the free movement of goods and services along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor through strategic engagement with key stakeholders in border communities.
The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Ben Oramalugo Kaila, disclosed this during a series of familiarisation visits to traditional rulers and heads of sister security agencies, noting that the initiative is aimed at strengthening collaboration and enhancing operational efficiency.
Kaila said the engagements are in line with the Federal Government’s economic policies, stressing that improved synergy with critical stakeholders would enable the command to effectively deliver on its mandate of trade facilitation, revenue generation and anti-smuggling.
During a visit to the palace of the Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, the controller condoled with residents over the passing of De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, describing the late monarch as a respected leader whose influence cut across border communities.
He explained that the visit also provided an opportunity to formally introduce himself as the new Area Controller and seek the support of traditional institutions, emphasising that their cooperation remains vital to effective border management.
Responding, the King Regent of Badagry Kingdom, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, assured the command of the community’s support, describing Badagry as peaceful and committed to promoting legitimate trade and security.
Similarly, the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori Kingdom, Oba Israel Okoya, and the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye, pledged continued cooperation, promising to sensitise residents against involvement in illegal activities.
As part of efforts to strengthen inter-agency collaboration, Kaila visited the Nigerian Air Force 653 Base in Ahanve and the Benin Police, reiterating his commitment to removing trade bottlenecks and ensuring seamless cross-border movement along the corridor.