The Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi has called for a collaborative alliance between Customs agency and the government of Oyo state to combat smuggling effectively.
He made this during his visit to the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency Adebayo Lawal, on the 14th of August, 2023, in the city of Ibadan within Oyo State.
Highlighting the objective behind his visit, the Acting CGC emphasized that the act of smuggling poses a significant threat to national security. Therefore, it should be a topic of utmost concern for all levels of government.
He said, “It is important for us to call on the state government to partner with us in this fight against smuggling, particularly around the border areas.”
“We believe that the time has come for us to work closely with each other, strengthen our partnership, and understand ourselves better so that we will know that we are working towards a shared goal of national development and security”, he added.
In reply, the Deputy Governor advised officers to employ discretion when pursuing smugglers and to prioritize their focus on criminals involved in the trafficking of weapons and ammunition.
“More attention must be paid to criminals who import arms and ammunition. If you’re able to catch criminals attempting to import arms and ammunition into the country for illegal purposes, that will save more lives”, he said.
Likewise, with the aim of nurturing the relationship between the Customs Community, the Acting Comptroller General of Customs (Ag. CGC) undertook a visit to the residence of His Royal Majesty, Oba Moshood Olalekan Balogun, who holds the title of Olubadan of Ibadan.
During this visit, the Ag. CGC paid his respects and sought the enduring support of the monarch in fulfilling the mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
Furthermore, the Customs Chief also made a trip to the Oyo/Osun Area Command, where he was warmly welcomed by the Area Controller, Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba.
Addressing the assembled officers and personnel of the Command, the Acting CGC emphasized the importance of maintaining responsibility in handling their weapons while executing enforcement duties.
“Be reminded that under our SOP, these weapons are only meant to be used for self-defence when you come under attack”, he noted.
“Never must we hear stories about you chasing smugglers into high residential areas or in the market”, he warned.
The Acting Controller General of Customs (Ag. CGC) received sincere gratitude from Comptroller Babajide Jaiyeoba, the Area Controller, for his visit and steadfast backing.
“This visit is particularly significant, and it symbolises not only the dedication and commitment of the Ag. CGC to his duties, but also his unwavering support for our command”, he said.
“His visionary leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence have undoubtedly set a new benchmark for the entire Customs Community”.
While engaging with stakeholders, the Ag. CGC affirmed the management’s readiness to partner with stakeholders.
“We have a new Customs Management committed to forging a solid partnership with you. We will walk along with you as you progress in our development, modernisation and engagement.
“We will like to bring you on board and make you part of our moving forward”. He concluded