Safeguarding Nigeria’s Borders: Customs CG Partners NSA on Tech-Driven Borders
By Nifemi Coker
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, has reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s (NCS) commitment to utilizing advanced technology for improved border security.
This message was central to his meeting with the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, on Thursday, 6th March 2025, where he highlighted NCS’s efforts to incorporate Geospatial technology to boost surveillance, intelligence gathering, and enforcement along Nigeria’s land and maritime borders.
During the visit, Adeniyi stressed the importance of technology in modern border management, pointing out that the Service has made significant strides in implementing innovative solutions to tackle smuggling, trafficking, and other cross-border crimes.
“Technology is vital to effective border management in today’s fast-evolving security landscape. The Nigeria Customs Service is dedicated to using Geospatial technology and other advanced tools to improve our surveillance, intelligence, and enforcement capabilities.
“These initiatives aligns with international best practices while addressing Nigeria’s specific border security challenges,” said CGC Adeniyi.
He further explained that these tech-driven measures would not only curb illicit trade but also ensure smooth and legitimate cross-border transactions.
In response, the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, praised the Nigeria Customs Service for its proactive approach to border security and trade facilitation, affirming that technology is crucial in protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“The Customs Service has shown a strong commitment to modernization and efficiency in securing our borders.
“The integration of advanced technology into border management is a positive step and perfectly aligns with our broader national security goals. We are confident that these innovations will strengthen border control operations while ensuring that legitimate trade is not obstructed,” said the NSA.
The meeting also underscored the importance of inter-agency cooperation in addressing security challenges and ensuring national stability.
The NSA assured the CGC of continued support for the Nigeria Customs Service’s modernization efforts, emphasizing the need for collaboration in intelligence sharing and operational coordination.
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