Maritime
THE Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU) Zone A, Comptroller Aliyu Gambo, says the adoption of predictive enforcement strategies is critical to tackling smuggling and strengthening border security.
Gambo made this known while receiving the newly elected executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) during a courtesy visit to the command’s headquarters in Lagos.
He said the unit was transitioning from conventional reactive enforcement to predictive enforcement through the deployment of geospatial intelligence (GeoINT) technology to enhance operational effectiveness.
According to him, the shift is part of ongoing reforms under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs aimed at strengthening intelligence-driven operations nationwide.
“We are at the point of transiting from reactive enforcement to predictive enforcement. We are leaning towards GeoINT because it gives us more predictability and allows us to geomap routes for a more targeted approach at our interdictions,” he said.
The comptroller explained that while the unit had relied on Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) and Human Intelligence (HUMINT), the integration of GeoINT would significantly improve precision, monitoring of smuggling routes and resource deployment.
Gambo said the unit remained committed to safeguarding the integrity of the port corridor through coordinated enforcement operations with other arms of the service.
He disclosed that between May 5 and May 21, the command intercepted over 800 packages of cannabis, alongside synthetic cannabis strains known as “skunk” and small quantities of crystal meth.
The comptroller added that the unit had thwarted 674 smuggling attempts since he assumed office, noting that officers were currently engaged in ongoing operations across border corridors.
“These are critical times and we are determined to contribute our quota towards keeping society safe,” he said.
Gambo linked the proliferation of illicit drugs to rising insecurity, including banditry and other criminal activities, stressing the importance of sustained enforcement efforts.
He also said the unit was enforcing environmental regulations by intercepting ozone-depleting substances and banned refrigeration and air-conditioning compressors imported in violation of international conventions.
According to him, the command remains focused on enforcing fiscal policies, facilitating legitimate trade and preventing the influx of prohibited goods.
Gambo described MARAN as a critical stakeholder in the maritime sector and commended its role in promoting public awareness through responsible journalism.
“It is particularly heartwarming to note that MARAN is one of the critical stakeholders in our resolve to protect the frontiers of Nigeria. We appreciate the pivotal role that you play,” he said.
He pledged the command’s support for MARAN’s capacity-building initiatives, emphasising the importance of continuous professional development.
Earlier, MARAN President, Mr Oluyinka Onigbinde, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the unit in the fight against smuggling and economic sabotage.
Onigbinde assured the command of the association’s commitment to balanced and professional reportage of Customs operations.
The visit featured the signing of the visitors’ register, exchange of souvenirs and group photographs.
F.O
Tags: Customs MARAN