Oritsegbubemi Omatseyin
Lagos — The Nigerian Customs Service, NCS, Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Area Command, has strengthened inter-agency collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, following a courtesy visit by the NDLEA Strategic Command, Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
The visit which took place on Thursday was led by Commander of Narcotics, Samuel Namallam.
The engagement provided an opportunity for both agencies to deepen cooperation in combating illicit drugs, transnational crimes, and emerging security threats across the Federal Capital Territory.
In her remarks, the Customs Area Controller FCT Command, Comptroller Victoria Aliboh described the visit as a positive step in reinforcing the strong ties between both agencies. She noted that the Nigeria Customs Service and the NDLEA continue to play complementary roles in securing the nation’s borders, airports, and communities.
Comptroller Aliboh underscored the importance of enhanced synergy in fighting various forms of crime. She expressed concern over the increasing impact of drug abuse on young people, whom she described as the nation’s most valuable resource.
“Stronger collaboration is essential if we must effectively tackle drug trafficking, smuggling, and other cross-border crimes. I am deeply concerned about the growing impact of drug abuse on our young people, who remain our most valuable resource. I commend the NDLEA for its consistent efforts in drug interdiction and public sensitisation,” Aliboh stated.
During the interactive session, the Area Controller called for deeper cooperation through joint training programmes, capacity-building initiatives, and the sharing of operational experiences. She also urged the NDLEA to provide regular activity reports to support the harmonization of security strategies within the FCT.
In his response, Commander Namallam praised the FCT Area Command for its professionalism and significant contributions to national security, particularly in intelligence sharing, cargo profiling, and timely operational support. He reaffirmed the NDLEA’s readiness to expand joint operations, enhance information-sharing mechanisms, and strengthen capacity-building efforts between both agencies.
Commander Namallam also proposed the introduction of monthly coordination meetings to review existing cooperation and develop new strategies for improving security both at the airport and across the FCT.
