The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun I Area Command, has intensified efforts to strengthen border security and enhance regional cooperation with the hosting of a joint security forum at the Idiroko border area.
The high-level stakeholders’ engagement, held on Tuesday, 6 January 2026, brought together heads of sister security agencies from Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, alongside other key stakeholders involved in border management and cross-border trade.
Speaking at the forum, the Acting Customs Area Controller, Deputy Comptroller of Customs (DC) Oladapo Afeni, said securing the border remains a critical priority under his mandate as Chairman of the Joint Security Forum, noting that effective security is fundamental to trade facilitation and revenue generation.
“My aim is to reappraise the security situation at the border and collectively address issues impeding the smooth flow of trade and regional security,” he stated.
DC Afeni noted that the participation of Beninese security counterparts underscored the importance of bilateral collaboration in tackling shared border challenges.
“Our counterparts from the Republic of Benin are here to jointly discuss issues affecting both sides of the border, including concerns around multiple checkpoints and their impact on trade and security,” he added.
He stressed that while security remains paramount, efficient cargo movement along border corridors can only be achieved through sustained cooperation among all relevant agencies and stakeholders.
The Acting Area Controller described the Command’s outlook for the new year as promising and assured stakeholders of the commitment of officers and men of the Ogun I Area Command to surpass previous operational achievements.
The forum also featured an interactive session, during which participants identified key challenges and proposed practical solutions aimed at reducing travel time, improving security coordination, and enhancing business activities along the Idiroko border axis.
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