Juliet Jacob 
Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Western Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening community partnerships as part of efforts to curb smuggling and reinforce security across Nigeria’s coastal borders.
The Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Patrick Ntadi, made this known after a courtesy visit to the palace of the Akran of Badagry, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, where discussions centred on enhancing collaboration between security agencies and traditional institutions.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Comptroller Ntadi said traditional authorities remain indispensable in sustaining intelligence sharing, peacebuilding, and public sensitisation against smuggling.
“Traditional institutions hold deep influence at the grassroots level. Their support is invaluable in discouraging illicit trade and other criminal activities that undermine the nation’s economy,” he stated.
The Western Marine Command has recently scaled up patrols and surveillance operations along coastal corridors, particularly in areas vulnerable to illegal maritime trade and cross-border trafficking.
Representatives of the Badagry Royal Council, led by the Oluipetoji of Badagry Kingdom, Chief Abel Ogunbiyi, commended Comptroller Ntadi’s continued engagement with coastal communities.
“Comptroller Ntadi is not new to us. He has always encouraged our youths to pursue legitimate livelihoods. His return reinforces our shared commitment to safeguarding our waterways,” Ogunbiyi said.
Community stakeholders pledged renewed cooperation, including intelligence support, local monitoring networks, and sensitisation campaigns targeting youths at risk of involvement in smuggling activities.
Security analysts note that collaborative enforcement approaches integrating state agencies and traditional leadership have proven effective in reducing illegal maritime activities in vulnerable border regions.
The Nigeria Customs Service says it will continue to prioritise community-led strategies to strengthen border protection and economic stability.
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Korede Abdullah 
Chukwu Obinna 
Oluwatobi Adu 
Otamere Gladness