The Nigeria Customs Service and the Department of State Services have announced their intention to strengthen collaborative efforts in combating cross-border crimes, focusing on curbing smuggling and other illicit activities.
This decision comes after a meeting held on March 6, 2025, between the Controller of the Oyo/Osun Area Command, Joseph Adelaja, and the DSS State Director, Mr. Rasheed Adelakun, at the DSS state headquarters in Ibadan, Oyo State.
A statement released by the NCS emphasized the need for enhanced intelligence sharing and cooperation between the two agencies, recognizing the evolving tactics of smuggling networks.
Adelaja highlighted the necessity of adapting strategies to counter the advancing operations of smugglers. He stressed the importance of intelligence sharing and joint operations for effective results.
The Oyo/Osun Area Command reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the DSS through joint initiatives, capacity-building efforts, and real-time information exchange to address security challenges.
Adelakun commended the proactive stance taken by the Customs leadership and affirmed the DSS’s dedication to strengthening their partnership.
Both agencies are focused on enhancing their alliance by increasing intelligence sharing, coordinating enforcement actions, and providing ongoing training to personnel to respond promptly to emerging security issues.