Traditional Rulers Hold Key to Curbing Smuggling in Border Areas – DC Afeni
The Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, Comptroller Oladapo Afeni, has said traditional rulers remain critical to efforts aimed at suppressing smuggling and strengthening security in Nigeria’s border communities.
Afeni stated this during a strategic courtesy visit to the Onipokia of Ipokia Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Yisa Sola Adeniyi, on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, as part of the Command’s ongoing stakeholder engagement initiative. The visit attracted a warm reception from the monarch and members of the traditional council.
Speaking at the palace, the Customs Area Controller described traditional institutions as indispensable partners in border security, noting that their grassroots influence and understanding of local dynamics place them in a strategic position to discourage illicit cross-border activities.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSC Chado Zakari, Afeni commended the traditional council for its role in sustaining peace and stability in Ipokia, stressing that effective anti-smuggling operations require strong collaboration between Customs and host communities.
The Comptroller reiterated the core mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service which are revenue generation, trade facilitation and suppression of smuggling, while urging traditional rulers to continue sensitising residents on the dangers of illicit trade and its negative impact on national security and economic development.
He also highlighted the Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives of the Service under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, explaining that the programmes are designed to promote community development while discouraging participation in smuggling activities.
In his response, the Onipokia of Ipokia Kingdom praised the Comptroller-General for his reform-driven leadership and welcomed Afeni as a son of the soil. He assured the Customs boss of the continued support and cooperation of the kingdom in promoting security and economic growth.
The monarch further encouraged the Controller to carry out his duties with courage and integrity, reaffirming that Ipokia remains a peaceful and law-abiding community committed to supporting the Federal Government’s security and economic objectives.
