By Chimezie Godfrey
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Seme Area Command, has intensified efforts to eliminate trade bottlenecks along the strategic Lagos–Abidjan corridor, with a renewed push for collaboration with traditional institutions, security agencies, and cross-border authorities.
The initiative, aimed at enhancing the free movement of goods and services across the West African sub-region, was highlighted during a series of high-level familiarisation visits by the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Kaila, to key stakeholders in Badagry and surrounding border communities.
The Lagos–Abidjan corridor, widely regarded as one of West Africa’s busiest trade routes, plays a critical role in regional commerce under frameworks such as ECOWAS trade liberalisation protocols. However, persistent challenges—including smuggling, informal trade practices, and logistical bottlenecks—have continued to undermine its full economic potential.
Speaking during a visit to the Palace of the Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, the Customs Area Controller stressed the importance of stakeholder collaboration in achieving the Service’s mandate.
While condoling with the royal family and people of Badagry over the passing of the revered monarch, HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, the Controller emphasised that Customs operations cannot succeed in isolation.
“Our priority remains to generate revenue, facilitate legitimate trade, and suppress smuggling. However, without the cooperation of traditional rulers and host communities, effective performance becomes difficult,” he said.
He added that the engagement was not only to formally introduce himself but also to seek the support and royal blessings of traditional authorities in fostering compliance and strengthening border management.
Responding, the King Regent, Abel Ogunbiyi, assured the Customs boss of the community’s support, describing Badagry as a peaceful town committed to lawful trade and cooperation with security agencies.
“We will continue to collaborate with you in safeguarding our borders and promoting legitimate trade,” he said.
The Controller also visited the Onibereko of Ibereko Awori Kingdom, Israel Okoya, who reaffirmed the readiness of the community to work closely with Customs authorities.
“Our youth do not engage in illegal activities, and we will continue to support your efforts in achieving government objectives,” the monarch said.
At the Palace of the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, HRM Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye also pledged full cooperation, commending the Controller’s professional reputation and expressing confidence in improved security and trade facilitation outcomes.
Beyond traditional institutions, the Customs boss extended his engagement to sister security agencies, including a visit to the Nigerian Air Force 653 Base in Ahanve, Badagry.
The Commanding Officer, Hungruy Medugu, reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to sustaining inter-agency collaboration.
“Our partnership has been instrumental in achieving operational success, and we will continue to support the Customs Service in its mandate,” he said.
In a further demonstration of cross-border cooperation, the Controller concluded his tour with a visit to the Republic of Benin Police office, signalling a strategic effort to deepen bilateral collaboration in tackling transnational trade barriers and enhancing regional economic integration.
Analysts say the move reflects a broader policy direction by the Federal Government to strengthen border governance, improve trade facilitation, and unlock economic opportunities along critical regional corridors.
Seme Customs Moves to Dismantle Trade Barriers on Lagos–Abidjan Corridor, Strengthens Cross-Border Alliances
