Customs unveils plan to counteract smuggling of nuclear materials
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced its intention to implement a program for detecting radiological and nuclear materials, aiming to bolster the nation’s security against illicit smuggling.
Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed this initiative in Abuja during the inauguration of a 4-Day Capacity Building Workshop organised by the World Customs Organisation (WCO).
Represented by the Assistant Comptroller General, Malanta Yusuf, Adeniyi emphasized the program’s significance, expressing confidence that it would equip participants with the technical expertise required to identify and combat the unlawful trafficking of radiological and nuclear materials.
READ ALSO: Customs investigates alleged bribery demand by officer at Lagos Airport
The initiative is anticipated to improve cross-border security, exposing participants to operational challenges while deepening their understanding of the multifaceted roles involved in this innovative approach.
Adeniyi commended the Customs leadership’s concerted efforts, highlighting innovation as a crucial element in enhancing the Service’s overall performance.
He underscored the importance of the training organised by the WCO, ensuring that officers benefit from cutting-edge knowledge and skills.
“We are trying to make sure that such training organised by the World Customs Organisation benefits our officers because clearly, the Comptroller-General has put too much effort into ensuring that innovation is one of the key elements,” he stated.
Nigeria Customs Service Radiation Safety Officer, Nafi’u Abubakar, lauded the CGC’s decisive approval of the Radiological and Nuclear Detection Program (RANDA), positioning Nigeria as one of the pioneering countries to domestically implement this groundbreaking project.
He emphasized the program’s significance, foreseeing substantial benefits for the Nigeria Customs Service. According to him, “The training was truly remarkable, and its benefits will undoubtedly enhance the Nigeria Customs Service.”
Dr. Isa Sambo FSI, the Director of Radiological Safety at the Nigeria Nuclear Regulatory Authority, hailed the CGC’s timely training approval, recognising its potential to eliminate border crimes and enhance the nation’s capability to tackle emerging threats effectively.
He affirmed, “The move is poised to position Nigeria at the forefront of global efforts to secure borders against the illicit trafficking of radiological and nuclear materials.”
As the Customs Service prepares to combat nuclear smuggling through advanced techniques, the commendation from seasoned experts underscores the transformative effects of this strategic initiative.
 has announced its intention to implement){kind=link}