The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reinforced its commitment to working closely with the military to enhance security across the North East.
The development followed a courtesy visit by the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Borno/Yobe Area Command, Abubakar Idris, and his delegation to the Theatre Commander of the North East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, Abdulsalam Abubakar, at Maimalari Barracks, Maiduguri, Borno State.
According to the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Customs Abubakar Ubali, the visit was aimed at consolidating existing inter-agency ties and exploring innovative strategies, including the use of geospatial technology, to combat insecurity, cross-border crimes, and smuggling while enhancing intelligence sharing.
During the engagement, Comptroller Idris commended the Armed Forces for their resilience and patriotism in the fight against insurgency. He emphasized that sustainable security requires coordinated efforts across agencies.
“We recognise the immense sacrifices of the military in safeguarding lives and property in the North East. The NCS remains committed to supporting ongoing operations through enhanced intelligence sharing, strict border control measures, and collaborative strategies to curb smuggling and other transnational crimes,” Idris stated.
Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar responded that security is a collective responsibility requiring sustained collaboration, synergy, and intelligence exchange. He pledged continued cooperation with the NCS, noting the agency’s critical role in border management and national security.
The Theatre Commander also stressed the importance of leveraging geospatial technology to improve operational effectiveness, disrupt illicit networks, and curb potential threats within the region.
The visit signals a strengthened partnership between the NCS and the military, highlighting a coordinated approach to ensuring security, promoting legitimate trade, and fostering economic growth in Borno and Yobe States.
