By Niyi Jacobs
In a bold move to enhance trade facilitation and border security, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has unveiled its reinvigorated 2025 Enforcement Strategy. This revamped approach focuses on removing trade bottlenecks, combating smuggling, and leveraging advanced technologies to modernize customs operations.
The Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, has announced the reduction of customs checkpoints nationwide. The measure aims to streamline operations and ease the movement of goods and people. Instead of relying on traditional checkpoints, the Service will adopt intelligence-driven strategies and deploy cutting-edge geospatial tools to ensure more efficient and effective enforcement.
As part of the modernization effort, the NCS has also announced the dissolution of the Joint Border Patrol Team (JBPT), an operation that began in 2019 under the code name “Ex-Swift Response.” Initially designed to enforce the partial border closure policy, the JBPT played a significant role in curbing the influx of dangerous goods and enhancing compliance with trade and security regulations. The decision to dissolve the team followed extensive consultations with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
The NCS has lauded the dedication and cooperation of partner government agencies involved in JBPT, whose efforts have been instrumental in securing Nigeria’s borders. It reassures the public that these changes will not compromise border security but will strengthen national safety and improve trade compliance.
“We remain committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s borders, facilitating legitimate trade, and ensuring the safety of Nigerians,” said CGC Adeniyi, calling for stakeholder support in the ongoing fight against economic saboteurs.
This strategic shift underscores the NCS’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and national security, signaling a new chapter in border management for Nigeria.
