The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, Ondo/Ekiti Area Command, has stepped up efforts to combat smuggling and other cross-border crimes through enhanced collaboration with traditional institutions and security agencies operating within the region.
The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Command, Deputy Comptroller of Customs Patience Ita, initiated a series of strategic engagements aimed at strengthening partnerships and improving coordinated security operations across Ondo and Ekiti states.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Assistant Superintendent of Customs Nzubechi Iheagwaram, on June 5, 2026, the engagements began with a courtesy visit to the Deji of Akure and Paramount Ruler of Akure Kingdom, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, to formally introduce the new Customs leadership and seek the monarch’s support.
The statement noted that the visit was part of a broader stakeholder engagement programme designed to deepen cooperation with host communities and enhance the operational efficiency of the Service within the command’s area of responsibility.
As part of the initiative, DC Ita also held separate meetings with the Comptroller of Immigration, Ondo State Command, Ephraim Ogbemudia, and the State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Nanzing Sallah.
The discussions centred on strengthening intelligence sharing, improving joint operations and developing a more coordinated approach to addressing smuggling, human trafficking, illicit drug trade and other transnational crimes affecting the region.
Speaking during the meetings, Ita emphasised that effective border management and economic protection can only be achieved through strong partnerships among security agencies and local communities.
“Securing our borders and ensuring economic stability requires a seamless, collective effort. We cannot do it alone. Building a solid bridge between the NCS, our host communities, and our sister agencies is paramount to our success,” she said.
The Acting Area Controller also commended the collaborative approach championed by the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, in fostering stronger inter-agency cooperation in the fight against smuggling and related crimes.
In their responses, the Immigration Comptroller and the NDLEA Commander applauded the initiative, describing it as a positive step towards strengthening security coordination in the state.
Both officials reaffirmed their agencies’ longstanding working relationship with the Nigeria Customs Service and pledged continued collaboration and operational support in addressing security threats and economic crimes across Ondo State and neighbouring areas.
