In their bid to foster a strategic synergy, the Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) holds high-level bilateral security meeting with Benin Republic Customs and police authorities at Idiroko Border, Ogun State
By Edu Abade
In a bold and decisive move to reinforce regional security, curb cross-border criminality, and facilitate legitimate trade, the Acting Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Ogun I Command, Idiroko has led a high-powered delegation on a joint official visit to critical counterparts in the Republic of Benin.
The Ogun 1 Customs CAC , Deputy Comptroller Abdulhamid Ibrahim, who spoke at the meeting with the Beninese Customs Administration and the Benin Republic Police Force, maintained that the strategic engagement underscored the shared commitment of both nations to foster a seamless, secure, and prosperous border corridor, aligning with broader sub-regional integration goals and the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The security heads finalized frameworks for real-time information and intelligence sharing to dismantle trans-border smuggling syndicates, arms trafficking networks, and irregular migration.
Emphasizing that security is a collective responsibility, the delegations reviewed joint patrol strategies along porous borderline corridors to protect national economies and border communities.
Discussions heavily prioritized streamlining clearance procedures, Coordinated Border Management, One Stop border post, addressing operational bottlenecks, and promoting transparent, technology-driven trade integration between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.
Speaking during the bilateral talks, Ibrahim highlighted the necessity of neighborly solidarity and proactive enforcement.
“Building a closer and more fruitful relationship with our neighbors is a fundamental priority. Criminal elements do not respect artificial boundaries; therefore, our response must be unified, swift, and uncompromising. This visit solidifies our shared dedication to safeguarding our economic assets, protecting our officers on the frontlines, and ensuring that legitimate traders thrive safely,” DC Ibrahim Stated
Echoing these sentiments, the Beninese counterparts, Customs Area Controller in charge of Igolo-Idiroko, Col. Kounozo and the Commissioner of Police Moussa commended the renewed vigour in bilateral relations, noting that multi-agency cooperation involving customs and law enforcement remains the silver bullet for sustainable border management and regional stability.
Both countries reiterated their unwavering resolve to build a model border post framework that champions economic growth while closing ranks against economic saboteurs.
