Ag. CGC charges local communities to support law enforcement agencies in enhancing border security
Story from Haruna YUSUF
The Acting Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, urged local communities around border areas to support law enforcement agencies in their efforts to enhance border security and prevent criminal activities during his official visit to Seme and Badagry Environs.
On Friday, July 21st, the Acting CGC started his visit by meeting with His Royal Majesty, De Wheno Aholu, Menu-Toyi I, at the Palace of the Akran of Badagry Kingdom. He acknowledged the longstanding relationship between Customs officers and the people of Badagry, praising their support and guidance over the years.
“As part of my working visit to Seme Area Command, we decided to make this our first stop because of the strong bond that every generation of Customs officers has shared with Badagry,” Adeniyi stated. “We appreciate all that you have done for us in the past, and we pray for your long life so that you can continue to support us.”
He also commended the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Dera Nnadi, for fostering good relationships with the community.
After the visit to the palace, the Acting CGC and his entourage proceeded to Seme Area Command. Despite the rain, a large crowd including officers and men of the Command, local government representatives, representatives from Customs Krake, Federal Republic of Benin, other sister agencies, royal fathers, stakeholders, and community leaders warmly welcomed them.
The Acting CGC emphasized the importance of synergy among sister agencies and community leaders. “We must work together, drawing strength from each other’s operations and the support of the communities we serve,” he urged.
In his address, Comptroller Dera Nnadi highlighted the notable achievements of the Command. This included significant seizures of fake currency amounting to millions of dollars, as well as dismantling trade barriers and promoting trade facilitation.
During the reception, stakeholders expressed their appreciation for the CGC’s visit, while also presenting their petitions. The Acting CGC expressed gratitude for their overwhelming turnout and assured them that their concerns would be addressed.
He further urged the stakeholders to support security agencies in enhancing national security, emphasizing that national security is the responsibility of every citizen. Adeniyi encouraged them to provide information and intelligence that would help apprehend criminals operating within their communities and putting their safety at risk.
“The criminals live among us, those who are bringing arms and ammunition, they operate and live around us, so what we can do to help and re-enforce our national security is if you help us with information, intelligence for us to apprehend these criminals who are infusing mayhem into our communities”.
