By Peace Udugba
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Command, has strengthened its bilateral security cooperation with the Republic of Benin following a high-level meeting between its officials and counterparts in the Beninese Customs Administration and Police Force.
The meeting, led by the Acting Customs Area Controller (CAC), Ogun I Command, Deputy Comptroller Abdulhamid Ibrahim, was aimed at reinforcing regional security, curbing cross-border criminal activities and facilitating legitimate trade between the two neighbouring countries.
The engagement, which involved a delegation from the Ogun I Command, focused on strengthening intelligence sharing, improving border security and promoting effective cooperation among security agencies operating along the Nigeria-Benin border.
During the meeting, both countries agreed on the need for real-time information and intelligence sharing to tackle transnational crimes, including smuggling, arms trafficking and irregular migration.
The delegations also reviewed strategies for joint patrols along vulnerable border corridors to strengthen surveillance, protect border communities and safeguard the economic interests of both countries.
Trade facilitation also featured prominently in the discussions, with both sides exploring ways to streamline customs clearance procedures, strengthen Coordinated Border Management, promote the One-Stop Border Post initiative and address operational challenges affecting cross-border trade.
Speaking during the bilateral engagement, Ibrahim emphasised the importance of regional solidarity and proactive collaboration in tackling security threats.
He said: “Building a closer and more fruitful relationship with our neighbours is a fundamental priority. Criminal elements do not respect artificial boundaries; therefore, our response must be unified, swift and uncompromising.
“This visit solidifies our shared dedication to safeguarding our economic assets, protecting our officers on the frontlines and ensuring that legitimate traders thrive safely.”
The Beninese delegation, led by the Customs Area Controller in charge of Igolo-Idiroko, Col. Kounozo, and the Commissioner of Police, Moussa, commended the renewed commitment to bilateral cooperation.
They noted that effective collaboration among customs administrations and law enforcement agencies was essential to sustainable border management, the fight against transnational crime and regional stability.
The meeting further underscored the commitment of both countries to developing an effective border management framework that promotes legitimate economic activities while preventing the activities of smugglers and other criminal elements.
The initiative also aligns with broader regional integration objectives and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which seeks to promote trade and economic cooperation across Africa.
Both delegations reaffirmed their determination to deepen cooperation, strengthen border security and create a safer and more efficient trading environment for businesses and border communities.
