Kebbi seen as vital for Nigeria’s border security, says customs boss
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, highlighted the strategic importance of Kebbi State for Nigeria’s border security, revenue generation, and trade. During a visit to Governor Nasir Idris in Birnin Kebbi, he emphasized Kebbi’s central role due to its borders with Benin and Niger Republic. Adeniyi praised the state’s history of producing distinguished customs officers and commended its model of inter-agency cooperation. He also discussed ongoing efforts to reopen regulated trade corridors and tackle security challenges in border communities.
What we know
- Bashir Adewale Adeniyi described Kebbi as crucial for customs operations, stating, “When Kebbi coughs, the Nigeria Customs Service catches cold.”
- He commended Kebbi’s history of producing respected customs leaders and emphasized mentoring younger officers for future leadership.
- Adeniyi raised concerns about security threats like smuggling, banditry, arms trafficking, drug abuse, kidnapping, and money laundering along the borders.
- He revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved reopening regulated transit trade corridors through Kebbi, with strict security guidelines.
- Over 1,700 trucks are awaiting clearance at the border, and customs plans to implement monitoring and infrastructure support to ensure secure and efficient trade.
