Nigeria Customs Service Plans Review of Container Escort Duties

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is looking to change the responsibilities of its Customs Police Unit (CPU), especially regarding how they escort containers during transport. This decision comes after the NCS adopted new technology that can monitor cargo from seaports to their final destinations, including inland dry ports.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, shared this information at the recent Customs Police Unit Summit in Abuja. He noted that the introduction of the CPU in 2019 had caused some unrest among personnel, mainly due to concerns about their duties. With technology now allowing better tracking of containers, Adeniyi believes it’s time to rethink some of the unit’s traditional roles.

Adeniyi emphasized the importance of working with other security agencies and anti-corruption groups. He mentioned that effective customs work needs skills in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and modern investigative techniques. He also reminded officers to respect human rights and treat suspects properly.

During his address, Adeniyi urged CPU personnel to maintain discipline and integrity, which he described as vital for the reputation of the Service. He warned that as criminal networks become more advanced, customs operations must also evolve. He stated that these networks often use the same routes as legitimate businesses to move illegal goods, so customs must adopt smarter enforcement strategies.

Adeniyi called for a more accountable and technology-driven CPU to tackle new security challenges and combat illegal trade. He stressed that the NCS must lead by example in demonstrating integrity before expecting it from traders and the public.

He cautioned officers against misusing their enforcement powers, highlighting that the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 grants them significant authority, which must be exercised lawfully. Adeniyi pointed out that enforcement should work alongside trade facilitation to reduce opportunities for corruption.

Overall, the Customs chief noted that the unit has made significant strides since its establishment in 2018 but must continue to adapt to changing trade patterns and security threats. He warned that enforcement without professionalism could lead to injustice and undermine public trust.