The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has convened a joint border security forum aimed at strengthening regional security and enhancing seamless cross-border trade between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.
The high-level stakeholders’ engagement, held at Idiroko, brought together heads of sister security agencies from both countries, alongside other critical stakeholders involved in border management and trade facilitation.
Speaking at the forum, the Acting Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Command, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Oladapo Afeni, said his mandate as Chairman of the Joint Security Forum prioritises border security as a foundation for effective trade facilitation and revenue generation.
According to him, the meeting was convened to reassess the prevailing security situation at the border and address challenges hindering the smooth flow of trade and regional safety.
“My aim is to reappraise the security situation at the border and discuss issues impeding smooth trade and regional security,” Afeni stated.
He noted that the participation of Beninese security counterparts underscored the importance of bilateral cooperation in addressing shared border challenges, including the proliferation of multiple checkpoints along the corridor.
“Our counterparts from the Republic of Benin are here so that we can collectively address issues affecting both sides, such as multiple checkpoints,” he added.
DC Afeni stressed that while border security remains a top priority, efficient cargo movement and trade facilitation can only be achieved through sustained collaboration among all relevant stakeholders.
He described the Command’s outlook for the new year as promising, assuring that officers and men of Ogun I Area Command remain committed to surpassing previous operational achievements.
The forum also featured an interactive session where participants identified key challenges and proposed practical solutions aimed at reducing travel time, improving business activities, and enhancing overall security along the Idiroko border axis.