The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration and enhancing national security following a courtesy visit by senior officers of the Nigerian Navy’s Western Naval Command to the Customs Zone A headquarters in Lagos.
The visit, led by the Flag Officer Commanding, Western Naval Command, Abubakar Abdullahi Mustapha, was aimed at reinforcing cooperation in combating maritime crime, smuggling, and other security threats.
According to a statement by Chief Superintendent of Customs Akaninyene Edeminam, Zonal Public Relations Officer for Zone A, the delegation was received by the Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs and Zonal Coordinator, Mohammed Babandede, on Tuesday, 7 July 2026.
Speaking during the meeting, ACG Babandede noted that the Customs Service’s responsibilities extend beyond revenue generation to include implementing trade policies and safeguarding national security by preventing the importation of harmful goods and equipment.
“The government doesn’t just collect money. It is also interested in protecting local industries and creating jobs,” he said.
He commended the Nigerian military for its role in protecting the nation and praised the Navy’s efforts in securing Nigeria’s maritime domain. Babandede reaffirmed Customs’ readiness to deepen collaboration with the Navy, noting that inter-agency cooperation remains a key policy direction of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi.
He added that closer cooperation is crucial in tackling the growing threat of illicit drugs, including cannabis, codeine, cocaine, and other prohibited substances circulating across West Africa.
Rear Admiral Mustapha, in his remarks, described enforcement as a major area of synergy between the Navy and Customs. He highlighted the shared responsibility of both agencies in intercepting criminal activities, securing Nigeria’s borders, and combating illicit drug trafficking.
He further stressed that the Navy’s intelligence-led and technology-driven maritime operations, combined with Customs’ enforcement efforts, remain essential in strengthening national security and protecting the country’s economic interests.
