Customs, DRDB synergise to enhance border security, trade facilitation
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced a strategic partnership with the Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB) aimed at reinforcing border security and advancing trade across the country and other frontiers.
The announcement was made on Tuesday during a meeting at NCS Headquarters, where the Comptroller General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi hosted a delegation led by Major General Emmanuel Ndagi, Director-General of DRDB.
The purpose of the visit was to explore collaborative opportunities to address national security concerns and enhance operational efficiency.
Adeniyi expressed his commitment to leveraging technological advancements through this partnership. “In an era dominated by technological progress, it is essential for the Nigeria Customs Service to continuously evolve and integrate cutting-edge technologies into our operations,” he remarked. Adeniyi highlighted the strategic importance of adopting innovations to bolster economic growth and improve border security.
He emphasised the potential of the partnership, particularly in utilising geospatial intelligence to combat border-related crimes. “Our focus includes implementing geospatial intelligence to better address border security challenges. We have established specialized structures for intelligence and research, including our Command and Staff College, which plays a crucial role in our operational and research activities.”
Major General Emmanuel Ndagi outlined the goals of the DRDB’s visit, which were to present the Bureau’s initiatives and seek a formal partnership with the NCS. He highlighted the mutual benefits of such a collaboration, particularly in strengthening border security and facilitating smoother trade operations.
“We are excited about the opportunity to work closely with the Nigeria Customs Service,” Ndagi stated. “By developing and implementing advanced technologies, we can enhance our capabilities in securing border areas and addressing emerging threats. Our joint efforts are aimed at improving both security and trade efficiency.”
Ndagi’s remarks underscored the shared vision of both organizations to address security challenges proactively and innovatively. The partnership is expected to lead to significant improvements in border security, contributing to a safer and more efficient trade environment throughout Nigeria.
Both Adeniyi and Ndagi expressed optimism about the future of this collaboration, noting that their combined expertise and resources will play a vital role in achieving the shared objectives of enhanced security and economic progress.
