Customs Service Calls for Police Collaboration on Smuggling

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), specifically the Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, has emphasized the need for stronger collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to address smuggling and trans-border crimes. This call was made by Acting Comptroller Oladapo Olukayode Afeni during a familiarisation visit to the Lagos State Police Command Headquarters in Ikeja on October 14, 2026.

Afeni highlighted the importance of inter-agency cooperation, particularly with the upcoming election period, as crime rates typically rise during this time. He noted that the responsibilities of the FOU extend beyond border enforcement to include national interest protection through intelligence sharing and coordinated operations.

Tijani Fatai, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, acknowledged the longstanding cooperation between the two agencies. The Customs delegation also visited several other security agencies, including the Department of State Services and the Nigerian Army, to discuss practical cooperation areas such as intelligence sharing and joint operations.