NCS, NIS Strengthen Border Security Partnership Against Smuggling, Human Trafficking

By Samuel Egbewole

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) have renewed their commitment to strengthening inter-agency cooperation to combat smuggling, human trafficking and other cross-border crimes.

The commitment was reaffirmed by the Acting Customs Area Controller of the Cross River/Calabar Free Trade Zone/Akwa Ibom Area Command, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Nkeiruka Nwala, during a familiarisation visit to the NIS Cross River Command in Calabar.

In a statement made available to newsmen, the Customs Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASC Yireabasi Ukpong, said the visit provided an opportunity for both agencies to explore ways of improving their operational relationship.

Nwala emphasised the need for sustained cooperation, intelligence sharing and coordinated operations among security agencies, describing closer collaboration between the NCS and NIS as essential to securing Nigeria’s borders and addressing emerging security threats.

She acknowledged the strategic role of the Immigration Service in border management and migration control, noting that its partnership with Customs remained vital to national security.

According to her, effective inter-agency cooperation would strengthen border surveillance while facilitating legitimate trade and the lawful movement of people.

The Acting Area Controller further observed that the growing security challenges along Nigeria’s borders required a collective response, adding that stronger institutional relationships would enhance operational efficiency and service delivery.

She described the visit as an opportunity to strengthen existing ties, exchange ideas and identify areas of mutual interest, particularly in advancing peace, security and economic development.

Nwala also stressed the importance of maintaining cordial relations between the two agencies as they discharge their respective statutory responsibilities.

The engagement provided a platform for both services to discuss strategies for improving cooperation and strengthening their operational partnership.