By Adetokunbo FAKEYE
Nigeria – The Customs Area Controller (CAC) of Ogun I Area Command, Comptroller James Ojo, in an effort to foster sustainable collaboration and synergy to enhance economic growth and security along Nigeria’s borders with the Republic of Benin through intelligence sharing and collaborative anti-smuggling operations has paid a courtesy visit to the Alake of Egbaland, other esteemed traditional rulers, and sister security agencies in Ogun State.
During his visits, according to the command spokesperson, CSC Hammed Bukoye Oloyede, Comptroller Ojo met with the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, His Royal Majesty Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo CFR, and other revered traditional rulers in Ogun State, where he expressed deep appreciation for their unwavering support and emphasized the crucial role traditional rulers play in maintaining peace, order, and security within their communities.
“Comptroller Ojo highlighted the importance of leveraging the traditional institutions’ influence and insights to enhance border security and combat smuggling activities effectively.
“Comptroller Ojo’s visit also included fruitful discussions with sister security agencies in Ogun State. These engagements underscored the need for continuous and robust collaboration among security agencies to address the challenges posed by smuggling and other cross-border crimes. By sharing intelligence, resources, and expertise, the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies can create a formidable front against those who seek to undermine Nigeria’s economic stability and national security.
The courtesy visit, Bukoye stated, aligns with the policy thrust of the Comptroller General of Customs, CGC Adewale Adeniyi who has emphasized the principles of consolidation, collaboration, and innovation.
“Comptroller Ojo reiterated the commitment of the Ogun I Area Command to these principles, noting that such engagements are crucial for fostering a secure and prosperous environment for the people of Ogun State and Nigeria at large.
“He also acknowledged the strategic importance of Ogun State’s borders with the Republic of Benin and the need for a united front in combating smuggling and other economic crimes. Comptroller Ojo assured that the Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with traditional rulers and security agencies, will continue to implement intelligent and innovative strategies to safeguard the nation’s borders and promote economic growth.
“The responses from all the critical stakeholders visited were positive and impressive. The CAC was assured of continuous support and collaboration with Ogun I Area Command and was accorded a warm reception throughout his visit.
“The sister security agencies visited include the Nigerian Police Force, 35 Artillery Brigade Nigerian Army, Federal Road Safety Corps, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Nigeria Correctional Service, amongst others.
“In his concluding remarks, Comptroller Ojo expressed optimism about the positive outcomes of the visit and the strengthened relationships with traditional rulers and security agencies.
“He called for ongoing cooperation, vigilance, and commitment to tackling the challenges ahead. Comptroller Ojo affirmed that the Ogun I Area Command is dedicated to working in the spirit of unity and shared purpose to achieve their collective goals”, Bukoye stated.
