The Customs Area Controller of the Oyo/Osun Area Command of Nigeria Customs Service, Comptroller Joseph Olugbuyi Adelaja, accompanied by principal officers of the Command, paid a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) jeadquarters in Ibadan on Tuesday 18 March 2025.
Speaking during the visit, Comptroller Adelaja expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to visit the NSCDC Command, acknowledging the agency’s unwavering dedication to safeguarding national assets, ensuring public safety, and maintaining peace and security across the nation.
Comptroller Adelaja disclosed that the purpose of the visit
was to reaffirm and strengthen the existing collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the NSCDC, emphasizing that both agencies share a common goal of protecting the nation’s interests and ensuring the safety of its citizens.
He outlined the core functions of the Nigeria Customs Service, including revenue generation, facilitation of legitimate trade, and suppression of smuggling. He acknowledged that the combined efforts of both agencies are crucial to achieving optimal security and promoting lawful trade across the country.
The Controller commended the NSCDC’s commitment to safeguarding critical infrastructure and combating vandalism. He noted that the dedication of the NSCDC complements the efforts of the Nigeria Customs Service in securing the nation’s borders and enhancing lawful trade activities.
Recognizing the evolving security challenges, Comptroller Adelaja emphasized the importance of enhancing collaboration between the agencies in areas such as intelligence sharing, capacity building, and public sensitization.
The NSCDC State Commandant, Mr. Augustine Ayodeji Padonu in his response, appreciated the visit of the Customs Area Controller, reiterating the NSCDC antecedent of a cordial relationship with the Nigeria Customs Service. He assured the Customs Area Controller on leveraging on the already existing relationship between both agencies.
Speaking further, the Commandant emphasized on the importance of intelligence sharing and operational consolidation in enhancing the discharge of the primary duties of both agencies
He made mention of the need to sensitize the junior ranks officers of both agencies concerning unhealthy rivalry and making them realize that both agencies share a common goal of protecting the members of the public and safeguarding the nation’s borders.
Concluding, Comptroller Adelaja on behalf of the Comptroller General of Customs, BA Adeniyi, MFR, and the entire management team of the Oyo/Osun Area Command extended his sincere gratitude to the NSCDC Commandant and the management team for their warm reception during the visit.