By John Moses
The Nigeria Customs Service is advancing its efforts to curb cross-border smuggling by introducing new technology along key transit points with neighbouring Benin Republic, according to the Comptroller-General, Adewale Adeniyi.
Speaking during a working visit to the Ogun II Area Command in Abeokuta on Wednesday, Adeniyi revealed that a pilot project is already underway at the Seme-Krake border—one of West Africa’s busiest land crossings.
“We have developed a system that allows for the monitoring and management of cargo in transit between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin,” Adeniyi said. “It is currently being piloted at Seme-Krake, and once proven successful, it will be extended to other border points to significantly reduce smuggling activities.”
The Comptroller-General emphasised Nigeria’s deepening cooperation with its border nations, highlighting recent bilateral engagements with customs officials in Benin. These collaborations, he said, include intelligence sharing, joint operations, and the creation of a cross-border task force to oversee goods in transit.
Adeniyi also noted the strong ties between customs officers and local border communities, who often provide crucial intelligence that aids enforcement. “We live among them, and they know the terrain well. Their input is vital to our operations,” he added.
During the visit, he applauded Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for positioning the state as a hub for industrial growth and reaffirmed the Customs Service’s commitment to supporting national economic development.
The Area Controller of the Ogun II Command, Bisi Alade, reported that the command generated over ₦15 billion in revenue during the first quarter of 2025. He attributed the performance to the leadership and support of the Comptroller-General.
