The Garrison Commander, 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier General H.I. Dasuki, has commended the Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service for its outstanding contributions to national security and economic development.
The commendation was given during an official visit to the Customs Area Controller, Dr Ben Oramalugo, at the Command’s operational headquarters in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The visit, according to a statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, SC Kayode Wey, was aimed at underscoring the mutual commitment between the Customs and the Army to explore opportunities for enhanced security and anti-smuggling operations within the region, as well as reinforcing ongoing inter-agency cooperation.
The garrison commander, who was received by Comptroller Oramalugo, praised the area command’s dedication to transparency and accountability in customs operations.
He emphasised the readiness of the Nigerian Army to continue supporting the Customs Service in its mission.
Affirming security as a collective responsibility, Brigadier General Dasuki said that the Nigerian Army is committed to strengthening partnerships with the Customs to promote safety and economic growth.
He also assured Dr Oramalugo of continued cooperation in intelligence sharing and joint operations, which are aimed at dismantling smuggling networks and ensuring safe and lawful trade.
In his welcoming remarks, the Comptroller expressed appreciation for the strong partnership with the Nigerian Army in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and ensuring compliance with trade laws.
He highlighted the pivotal role of the Nigerian Army in supporting Customs’ anti-smuggling operations, noting that the interagency collaboration had been instrumental to the Command’s successes.
Dr Oramalugo said: “The Nigeria Customs Service values its partnership with the Nigerian Army, in addition to the unwavering support that enhances our command’s operational strength and ability to secure Nigeria’s borders.”
Speaking on Customs’ mandate, which included revenue collection, anti-smuggling operations, and trade facilitation in Nigeria, and through robust partnerships as well as a commitment to operational excellence, the Comptroller said that the Service plays a crucial role in enhancing economic growth and protecting Nigeria’s borders.
He appreciated the garrison commander’s visit, highlighting the pivotal role that interagency collaboration plays in the command’s success.
“Working closely with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies has amplified our impact in curbing smuggling activities and enforcing trade compliance,” Dr Oramalugo said.
He added, “Today’s visit is a testament to our mutual commitment to safeguarding our nation’s borders and ensuring economic stability.”
The two security chiefs discussed a range of topics aimed at enhancing cooperation and coordinating efforts to improve border security and counter-smuggling activities, including arms trafficking, illegal trade in goods, and other security risks within the command’s jurisdiction.
They also deliberated on collaborative strategies towards strengthening border security, with a particular focus on combating the illegal movement of uncustomed goods, arms, ammunition, and other contraband items.
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