NCS shines at Africa Security Watch Conference, wins prestigious award (Pictures)

December 15, 2024

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NCS shines at Africa Security Watch Conference, wins prestigious award (Pictures)

…Service Celebrated for Border Security Innovations and Leadership Excellence

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), under the leadership of Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, has gained global recognition for its innovative contributions to border security and trade facilitation. At the 18th Africa Security Watch Conference in Doha, Qatar, the NCS showcased its groundbreaking strategies and achievements, earning the prestigious ‘Best National Security Service in West, East, and Central Africa 2023/2024’ award.

Represented by National Public Relations Officer Chief Superintendent Abdullahi Maiwada, CGC Adeniyi delivered a keynote address titled “Protecting National Security Through Effective Border Control: The Nigeria Customs Example.” He emphasised the critical role of borders as gateways for national security and economic stability.

The Comptroller-General highlighted the transformative impact of the Nigeria Customs Act 2023, which has enhanced the Service’s capacity to address emerging threats and streamline operations. “Under my leadership, the NCS achieved a record-breaking ₦5.1 trillion in revenue for 2024,” Adeniyi stated, attributing the milestone to technological innovation and strengthened compliance frameworks.

The NCS has made significant strides in combating transnational crimes, including:

Arms Interception: The seizure of 844 rifles and 112,500 rounds of ammunition at Onne Seaport disrupted the proliferation of small arms and light weapons.

Illicit Drug Operations: Collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) led to multiple drug trafficking busts.

Wildlife Protection: Interception of 4,200 kilograms of pangolin scales and ivory reinforced the Service’s commitment to biodiversity conservation.

Through intelligence-driven operations like Operation Whirlwind, the NCS intercepted over 695,000 litres of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), curbing the diversion of petroleum products in collaboration with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

Adeniyi revealed how geospatial technologies, including satellite feeds and geo-mapping, have revolutionised border surveillance and enforcement. These advancements ensure sustainable and effective operations.

The NCS’s outstanding performance was celebrated during the Gala/Award Night of the conference. CGC Adewale Adeniyi received individual recognition for his visionary leadership, which has propelled the Service to new heights.

The achievements reflect the NCS’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders, fostering trade, and tackling security challenges with innovative solutions. This international recognition further cements the Nigeria Customs Service as a leading force in border security across Africa.

See pictures below: