By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening operational synergy with the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), as part of renewed efforts to strengthen border security management in Borno and Yobe States.
The Custom Area Controller in charge of Borno and Yobe States, Controller Abdullahi Mohammed Idris, made this known during a courtesy visit to the OPHK Headquarters, where he emphasised the need to consolidate existing collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Controller Idris explained that the visit was aimed at reinforcing inter-agency cooperation and seeking the guidance and support of OPHK as a critical security stakeholder in the North-East.
He disclosed that the NCS has deployed Geo-Partial Surveillance Technology across Nigeria’s land and maritime borders to enhance monitoring, intelligence gathering and rapid response capabilities. According to him, leveraging technology alongside strengthened collaboration with military formations in the region would significantly boost efforts to combat cross-border crimes and other security threats.
The Area Controller also acknowledged the vital role played by the Nigerian Army in the establishment of the Nigerian Customs Service Staff College, as well as its continued support in capacity building for Customs personnel. He expressed appreciation to the Theatre Commander for the warm reception accorded him and his delegation, noting that the engagement would further solidify existing ties and enhance border security operations.
Responding, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its pivotal role in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and curbing transnational crimes.
He stressed the importance of a multi-agency approach to addressing the country’s security challenges, in line with the Service Chiefs’ Command Philosophy which prioritises jointness and inter-agency synergy. He noted that no single security agency can effectively tackle the complex threats confronting the nation.
Major General Abubakar identified porous borders as a major contributor to the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, which continue to undermine peace and stability in border communities. He underscored the critical responsibility of the NCS in stemming the flow of illicit arms and other contraband into the country.
The Theatre Commander further applauded Customs personnel deployed within OPHK for their professionalism and dedication, reaffirming the Joint Task Force’s commitment to sustained collaboration in securing the North-East.
The visit culminated in the signing of the visitors’ register and the presentation of souvenirs, symbolising strengthened institutional partnership in the ongoing effort to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
