Benue NSCDC, Customs Deepen Synergy for Enhanced Border and Waterway Security

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Benue State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and the North-Eastern Marine Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration aimed at improving security operations and intelligence sharing across the region.

The State Commandant of the NSCDC, Mrs. Larai Bitrus, made this known while receiving the newly redeployed Acting Area Comptroller of Customs, North-Eastern Marine Command, Mr. Joseph Ikewun, during a courtesy visit to the NSCDC headquarters in Makurdi.
Bitrus recalled the productive working relationship that existed between both agencies under the previous customs leadership, particularly in the areas of joint operations and intelligence gathering. She noted that the cooperation had played a significant role in addressing security challenges within their operational jurisdictions.
The Commandant outlined the statutory responsibilities of the NSCDC, which include the protection of critical national assets and infrastructure, disaster management, regulation of private guard companies, implementation of the Safe School Initiative, protection of agricultural investments through the Agro Rangers unit, and the provision of security for high-profile individuals.
She emphasized the importance of sustaining collaboration between the two agencies and reiterated the Corps’ commitment to strengthening partnerships in areas of shared interest.
“I want to use this opportunity to restate our resolve to deepen synergy and collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service for the benefit of our nation’s security and economic interests,” she stated.
Earlier, the Acting Area Comptroller of Customs, North-Eastern Marine Command, Joseph Ikewun, said the visit was intended to strengthen ties with the NSCDC and appreciate the cordial relationship that already exists between the two security organizations.
Ikewun described the NSCDC and Customs as strategic partners with a common responsibility of protecting Nigeria’s economic and security interests.
According to him, while the Customs Service is responsible for trade facilitation, revenue generation, and anti-smuggling operations, the NSCDC complements these efforts through the protection of critical infrastructure and the maintenance of internal security.
The Customs chief further highlighted the extensive jurisdiction of the North-Eastern Marine Command, which covers waterways along the River Benue through Adamawa, Taraba, and Borno states, as well as border waterways connected to Niger, Chad, and Cameroon.
He stressed that the vast operational terrain makes sustained intelligence sharing and coordinated operations between both agencies essential.
“Looking at the nature of our operational environment, strong synergy and intelligence sharing between our services is not only beneficial but necessary,” he said.
A statement signed by the Command Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Corps Ejelikwu Michael, noted that both agencies are optimistic that the renewed partnership will strengthen joint patrols, intelligence exchange, and capacity-building programmes for officers and personnel, ultimately enhancing security and economic protection across the region.