The Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for the Southwest Zone, Saidu Yusuf, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to deploying modern technology for enhanced border security and combating smuggling activities. Yusuf made this statement during his appraisal visit to the Ogun Area II Command in Abeokuta on Thursday.

Yusuf commended the command for generating over N20 billion in revenue for the Federal Government between January and August, a significant increase from the N14 billion recorded during the same period last year.

Highlighting ongoing efforts to modernize border control, Yusuf emphasized the importance of technology. “Efforts are ongoing to use technology to enhance our borders’ security and patrol. The CGC, Bashir Adeniyi, has been busy coordinating the automation of our operations, both at seaports and border stations,” he said. Yusuf also referenced the recent acquisition of an aircraft for border patrol, marking a key step toward using aerial technology to monitor the country’s porous borders.

He warned against attempts to smuggle illicit items into the country, particularly arms, ammunition, and drugs, stressing that the Customs Service is now more effective in intelligence gathering, working closely with other security agencies.

Regarding the performance of the Ogun Area II Command under Comptroller Olusola Alade, Yusuf expressed satisfaction with its achievements. “The command has been able to generate close to N21 billion so far, despite the challenging economic situation and exchange rate fluctuations,” he noted.

In his response, Comptroller Alade thanked Yusuf for the commendation but appealed for additional accommodation for officers and better medical facilities for the command’s clinic.

The Nigeria Customs Service remains focused on enhancing its capacity to secure borders and generate revenue through increased automation and technological advancements.