Saidu Yusuf, the Assistant Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service for the Southwest Zone, announced on Thursday the service’s commitment to utilizing technology to improve border control and combat smuggling effectively.
During his visit to the Ogun Area II Command in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Yusuf praised the command for achieving over N20 billion in revenue for the Federal Government from January to August, a significant increase from the N14 billion recorded during the same period last year.
Yusuf stated, “We are actively working to enhance our border security and patrols through technology. The Comptroller-General, Bashir Adeniyi, has been focused on coordinating operations at both border stations and seaports. All our operations are being automated, including those at the border.”
He mentioned a recent inspection of an aircraft acquired for border patrol by the Nigeria Customs Service. “We know that our borders are porous, and using modern technology is crucial for monitoring them. However, this requires proper training, which the service is committed to providing. The acquisition of this aircraft is part of our technological advancements.”
Yusuf warned those considering smuggling arms, ammunition, or drugs into Nigeria to reconsider, stating that the Nigeria Customs Service is highly active and effective in intelligence gathering, collaborating closely with other security agencies.
Reflecting on the command’s performance under Comptroller Olusola Alade, Yusuf remarked, “As of August, the command has generated nearly N21 billion in revenue. Given the current economic challenges and fluctuating exchange rates, this is an impressive achievement compared to last year’s N14 billion.”
In his welcome address, Comptroller Alade expressed gratitude for Yusuf’s commendations but also appealed for additional accommodations for officers and for the command’s clinic to be properly equipped with necessary medical supplies.
Written By: Praise Inalegwu