Seme Customs Intensifies Stakeholder Engagement to Dismantle Trade Barriers Along Lagos–Abidjan Corridor
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has stepped up efforts to eliminate trade barriers hindering the seamless movement of goods and services along the strategic Lagos–Abidjan corridor, as part of a broader push to strengthen regional commerce and align with Federal Government economic policies.
This renewed drive was underscored during a series of high-level familiarisation visits by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Kaila, to traditional institutions and sister security agencies across Badagry and its border communities.
The engagements, according to the Command, are aimed at fostering cooperation with critical stakeholders whose roles are pivotal to achieving the Service’s core mandates of revenue generation, trade facilitation, and anti-smuggling enforcement.
At the Palace of the Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, Comptroller Kaila conveyed condolences to the royal family and people of Badagry over the passing of the revered monarch, HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, described as a highly respected traditional ruler with influence across border communities.
Explaining the purpose of his visit, Kaila noted that collaboration with traditional authorities remains indispensable to effective Customs operations.
“The purpose of my visit is to introduce myself as the Area Controller of Seme Command and to seek your royal blessing and support in achieving our core mandate. Our priority remains to generate revenue, facilitate trade, and suppress smuggling. Without the cooperation of traditional rulers, we cannot effectively perform our duties,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the kingdom, the King Regent, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, reaffirmed the community’s commitment to peace and collaboration. He described Badagry as a tranquil town and pledged continued support for Customs operations aimed at safeguarding the border and promoting legitimate trade.
The Customs boss extended similar engagements to the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori Kingdom, Oba Israel Okoya, who assured the Command of his readiness to mobilise community support whenever necessary.
The monarch emphasised that youth within the area are law-abiding and expressed willingness to partner with Customs to uphold government directives.
“I welcome you to Badagry and assure you that I will always engage my people when the need arises. Our youths do not engage in illegal activities, and I am committed to assisting you in achieving the government’s mandate,” the traditional ruler stated.
At the Palace of the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, HRM Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye commended Comptroller Kaila, describing him as a seasoned and well-respected professional. The monarch pledged sustained support, highlighting the peaceful nature of the border community and the respect local youths accord to traditional authority.
“Our border has remained peaceful because our youths listen to the elders. With your presence, we believe things will improve even further,” the Oba remarked.
Beyond traditional institutions, Comptroller Kaila also reinforced inter-agency collaboration through a visit to the Headquarters of the 653 Nigerian Air Force Base in Ahanve, Badagry.
The Commanding Officer, Group Captain Hungruy Medugu, reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting Customs operations, noting that both agencies share common objectives in securing the nation’s borders.
“Our collaboration has been instrumental to the successes recorded within our area of responsibility. Your visit strengthens the existing bond between our Services, and we will continue to support one another,” Medugu said.
In a further demonstration of cross-border cooperation, the Customs Area Controller concluded his tour with a visit to the Republic of Benin Police office, signalling a commitment to strengthening bilateral efforts to remove impediments to trade and ensure smoother trans-border movement.
The Seme Area Command noted that these engagements form part of a broader strategy to enhance stakeholder synergy, curb smuggling activities, and promote a more efficient trade environment along one of West Africa’s busiest economic corridors.
