In a strategic move to combat smuggling and irregular migration through Nigeria’s inland waterways, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) have pledged to deepen inter-agency cooperation, particularly along the Benue River corridor.
The renewed commitment followed a courtesy visit on July 16, 2025, by the Customs Area Controller of the North Eastern Marine Command, Comptroller Mohammed Mohammed, to the NIS Benue State Command in Makurdi.
During the visit, Comptroller Mohammed and his host, Comptroller Andrew Wanogho of the NIS, held high-level discussions with senior immigration officials.
Key areas of focus included intelligence sharing, coordinated surveillance, and joint operations aimed at dismantling smuggling networks and curbing unregulated cross-border movements along the Benue River.
Comptroller Mohammed stressed the growing threats posed by criminal elements exploiting riverine routes, underscoring the need for a unified security front.
“It is imperative that we break silos and work together in the spirit of national interest. Intelligence sharing and sustained surveillance along our waterways will enhance our operational effectiveness and border security,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of trust, communication, and joint patrols in disrupting illicit trade routes and reinforcing Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
The Benue River, which spans several states and links to critical border zones, has increasingly become a hotspot for smuggling and irregular migration. Both agencies agreed to form a joint task force to focus on high-risk areas, integrating manpower, local intelligence, and modern surveillance technology into a comprehensive operational framework.
In response, Comptroller Wanogho praised the Customs Service for its proactive initiative and assured the full cooperation of the NIS in efforts to maintain border stability and national security.
The visit reflects the broader agenda of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, who has prioritized inter-agency synergy, reform, and innovation in border management since assuming office.
With the North Eastern Marine Command playing a pivotal role in riverine border surveillance, the collaboration is expected to significantly enhance interdiction and monitoring efforts across Nigeria’s North Central corridor.