The Customs Area Controller (CAC), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone A, Ikeja, Lagos, Comptroller Gambo Aliyu has said predictive enforcement is key to tackling smuggling in the country.
To this end, he stated that the unit is shifting from reactive enforcement operations to predictive enforcement through the deployment of geospatial intelligence technology aimed at improving border security and combating smuggling activities across the country.
The CAC stated this while receiving the newly elected executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria (MARAN) in his office recently.
Aliyu disclosed that the transition to predictive enforcement was part of broader reforms introduced under the leadership of the Comptroller-General of Customs to strengthen intelligence-driven operations and enhance interdiction success rates nationwide.
He explained that the deployment of geospatial intelligence would improve operational precision, resource allocation and monitoring of smuggling routes.
His words: “We are at the point of transiting from reactive enforcement to predictive enforcement. We are leaning towards GeoINT because it gives us more predictability and allows us to geomap routes for a more targeted approach at our interdictions.”
The Customs Chief noted that the unit had previously relied heavily on Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) and Human Intelligence (HUMINT), but stressed that the adoption of Geo-Intelligence (GeoINT) would significantly improve operational efficiency and intelligence gathering.
The CAC also stated that FOU remained committed to safeguarding the integrity of the port corridor through strategic interventions and coordinated enforcement operations with other units of NCS.
Aliyu revealed that the unit had intensified anti-smuggling operations across border corridors and had continued to record major seizures, particularly involving illicit drugs and prohibited goods.
Giving an insight into the units operations, Aliyu disclosed that between May 5 and May 21, 2026, the unit seized more than 800 packages of cannabis in addition to several interceptions involving synthetic cannabis strains popularly known as “skunk” and small quantities of crystal meth.
The CAC further stated that the Unit had successfully thwarted 674 smuggling attempts since he assumed office as Comptroller of FOU Zone A.
His words; “As we speak, operatives are on the field carrying out operations. These are critical times and we are determined to contribute our quota towards keeping society safe.”
He linked the growing menace of illicit drugs to rising criminality, banditry and insecurity in the country, stressing that NCS enforcement operations were crucial to national security and public safety.
According to him, the unit was also enforcing environmental protection measures by intercepting ozone-depleting substances and prohibited refrigerator and air-conditioner compressors imported into the country in violation of international environmental conventions.
Aliyu disclosed that the unit remains focused on enforcing government fiscal policies, protecting legitimate trade and preventing the entry of prohibited goods into the country.
He described MARAN as a critical stakeholder in the maritime industry and commended the association for its contributions to maritime journalism and public enlightenment.
Said he: “It is particularly heartwarming to note that MARAN is one of the critical stakeholders in our resolve to protect the frontiers of Nigeria. We appreciate the pivotal role that you play.”
The CAC pledged the support of the unit towards MARAN’s capacity-building initiatives, noting that continuous professional development remained essential for effective and responsible journalism.
Aliyu also commended members of the association for what he described as their dispassionate reportage and constructive engagement with government agencies.
The President of MARAN, Mr. Oluyinka Onigbinde had earlier in his remarks said the visit was aimed at strengthening the relationship between the association and FOU while promoting collaboration in the fight against smuggling and economic sabotage.
He assured the unit of MARAN’s continued support through balanced and professional reportage of NCS operations and policies.
