Seme Customs Strengthens Border Ties, Moves to Eliminate Trade Barriers Along Lagos–Abidjan Corridor
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has intensified efforts to remove trade barriers hindering the seamless movement of goods and services along the strategic Lagos–Abidjan corridor through sustained engagement with key stakeholders.
This initiative was highlighted by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Kaila, during a series of familiarisation visits to traditional rulers and heads of sister security agencies in Badagry. The visits underscored the Command’s commitment to aligning its operations with Federal Government economic policies while strengthening collaboration at the grassroots level.
At the palace of the Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, Comptroller Kaila expressed condolences to the royal family and the people of Badagry over the passing of HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, a revered monarch known across border communities.
He noted that his visit was aimed at fostering mutual understanding and seeking royal support to effectively discharge the core mandates of the Service.
“Our priority remains revenue generation, trade facilitation, and suppression of smuggling. Achieving these objectives requires the cooperation of traditional institutions, whose support is vital to our success,” he said.
Responding, the King Regent, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, described the Customs boss as a son of the soil and assured him of the community’s continued support.
“Badagry is a peaceful town, and we will continue to collaborate with you to safeguard our borders and promote legitimate trade,” he stated.
At the palace of the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori Kingdom, Oba Israel Okoya also pledged support, assuring that community leaders would continue to discourage illegal activities and promote lawful engagement among residents.
Similarly, the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, HRM Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye, commended Comptroller Kaila’s professionalism and assured him of cooperation in maintaining peace and enhancing border security.
“Our community has remained peaceful due to the respect our youth have for traditional authority. With your presence, we are confident of even greater progress,” the monarch said.
In furtherance of inter-agency collaboration, the Customs Area Controller visited the 653 Nigerian Air Force Base in Ahanve, Badagry. The Commanding Officer, Group Captain Hungruy Medugu, reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting Customs operations, noting that both agencies share common goals in securing the nation’s borders.
“Our collaboration has contributed significantly to successes recorded in this region. We remain committed to strengthening this partnership,” he said.
The tour concluded with a visit to the Republic of Benin Police formation, signalling the Command’s readiness to deepen cross-border cooperation and eliminate obstacles to trade along the corridor.
The Seme Command’s renewed stakeholder engagement strategy is expected to enhance border security, boost legitimate trade, and reinforce economic integration within the West African sub-region.