By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
The Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, Gambo Aliyu, has led a high-level security delegation across key institutions in Ogun State following the tragic death of a Customs officer during an anti-smuggling operation.
The strategic visit, which took place on Monday, March 16, 2026, saw Aliyu engage with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Nigeria Police Force, and the palace of the Alake of Egbaland. The move comes amid intensified operations targeting drug smuggling along the Ogun border corridor.
Addressing stakeholders during the visit, Aliyu reaffirmed the Service’s zero-tolerance stance against the trafficking of Cannabis Indica and other illicit substances. He noted that the recent crackdown on drug smuggling, though successful, resulted in the loss of a dedicated officer.
“This visit comes against the backdrop of our coordinated onslaught against illicit drug smuggling, which sadly led to the demise of one of our gallant officers,” he said. “We remain committed to leveraging inter-agency collaboration to bring perpetrators to justice and rid the nation of substances that threaten peace and development.”
At the NDLEA Ogun State Command, the Commander of Narcotics, Tijjani Rabe, welcomed the initiative, describing it as a step toward deeper professional collaboration. He assured the Customs team of the agency’s readiness to enhance intelligence sharing and operational synergy.
“Our doors are open for collaboration. Together, we will combine our expertise to curb the influx of illicit drugs into the country,” Rabe stated.
Similarly, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, подчеркed the importance of joint operations, noting that Lagos and Ogun states function as a unified security zone due to their proximity.
“In the spirit of partnership, we must continue to work together. The police remain fully available to support Customs operations at all times,” Ogunlowo said.
Extending the engagement to traditional leadership, Aliyu visited the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Michael Gbadebo, where he sought royal support in addressing smuggling and drug abuse at the community level.
“I come not just as a Comptroller, but as a son seeking royal blessings in a fight that threatens our youth and the future of our society,” Aliyu said. “Smuggling and drug abuse are twin evils undermining our economy, flooding markets with counterfeit goods, and weakening legitimate businesses.”
In response, the monarch offered prayers for the safety of security personnel and pledged his support for the anti-smuggling campaign. Oba Gbadebo also vowed to use his traditional authority to promote zero tolerance for illicit activities within his domain.
The visit underscores the growing emphasis on inter-agency collaboration and community engagement in tackling cross-border crimes and safeguarding national security.
