—Agencies deepen intelligence sharing and joint operations to curb illicit trade and protect Nigeria’s borders.

The Ogun I Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has strengthened its commitment to combating smuggling, counterfeit products and other cross-border crimes through enhanced collaboration with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Nigerian Army.

The renewed commitment was reaffirmed during separate strategic visits to the Command Headquarters in Idiroko by the Director of NAFDAC’s Federal Task Force on Fake and Substandard Products, Dr Martin Iluyomade (fsi), and the Commander of the 35 Artillery Brigade, Abeokuta, Brigadier General Friday Oguche Onu.

During his visit, Dr Iluyomade met with the Acting Customs Area Controller of Ogun I Command, Deputy Comptroller (DC) Oladapo Oludayo Afeni, to strengthen intelligence-led operations aimed at intercepting counterfeit, fake, expired and substandard products before they enter Nigerian markets.

He commended the Command’s sustained anti-smuggling efforts and stressed the need for real-time intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement actions to protect public health, support legitimate businesses and safeguard local industries.

Responding, DC Afeni said dismantling organised smuggling networks requires stronger inter-agency collaboration.

“Our resolve to secure Nigeria’s borders against illicit trade remains unwavering.

Strengthening our partnership with the Federal Task Force will improve operational efficiency and ensure that importers of fake and substandard products find no safe haven within our area of responsibility,” he said.

Both agencies also urged importers, licensed customs agents and residents of border communities to embrace lawful trade practices and promptly report suspicious activities to relevant security agencies.

In a separate engagement, Brigadier General Onu paid an official visit to the Ogun I Customs Command to reinforce security cooperation and strengthen border protection across Ogun State.

The Army Commander pledged sustained operational support and intelligence sharing with the Nigeria Customs Service to combat trans-border crimes, smuggling and other emerging security threats.

“Security along our border communities requires a seamless and united approach. The 35 Artillery Brigade remains fully committed to joint operations that will safeguard national security and promote economic stability,” Brigadier General Onu said.

DC Afeni expressed appreciation for the Nigerian Army’s continued support, noting that joint operations remain essential to suppressing criminal activities while facilitating legitimate cross-border trade.

The visits concluded with the presentation of commemorative plaques, the signing of the visitors’ register and group photographs involving senior officers of the Nigeria Customs Service, NAFDAC and the Nigerian Army, symbolising their shared commitment to strengthening border security and protecting Nigeria’s economy.