As part of efforts to further enhance inter-agency cooperation and bolster security collaboration towards combating crimes and emerging threats, the Lagos State Police Command, has played host to the Comptroller of Nigeria Customs Service and Comptroller of Nigeria Immigration in Lagos.
Comptroller of Customs, Muritala Muhammed Airport Command Comptroller Toyin Awe, and his counterpart from the Nigerian Immigration Service, Comptroller David Adebambo of the Lagos Command were at the Police Command for a courtesy visit on the the new Police Commissioner Moshood Jimoh.
The two officers in their separate courtesy visits remarks to CP Jimoh, focused on strengthening inter-agency cooperation, particularly in tackling the growing challenge of insecurity in the country, with special emphasis on Lagos State which is their area of jurisdiction.
During the visit, the Immigration’s boss Adebambo, who arrived first highlighted the Nigeria Immigration Service’s efforts in managing migration and border control, introducing the e-border system, which features camera installations and control centers to monitor and respond to irregular migration.
He also mentioned the BATIC, a technology innovation center that enables real-time supervision of border areas and airports.
Adebambo also emphasised the importance of cooperation and synergy between the Iimmigration Service and the police in ensuring the security and safety of Lagos State.
He noted the Iimmigration Service’s efforts in documenting and expunging irregular migrants, and its initiatives to facilitate foreign direct investment and employment opportunities for Nigerian youth.
In his response, CP Jimoh acknowledged the existing cordial relationship between the agencies, assuring Adebambo of his commitment to strengthening their cooperation, particularly in intelligence sharing and joint operations.
On his part, Comptroller Awe of the Customs, emphasised the crucial role of synergy between security agencies, citing recent seizures of illegal military accoutrements at the airport.
According to him, these included arms and ammunition, camouflage uniforms, and drones, which were intercepted due to the vigilance of customs officers conducting 100% cargo examinations.
The Comptroller noted that intelligence-led operations have been instrumental in identifying and intercepting illicit shipments, many of which originate from Turkey.
In his words, we cannot do it all alone, the synergy between security agencies must continue, especially now that insecurity has become a major concern.
He said within his command at Muritala Muhammed Airport, they recently seized several military-grade items, including arms, ammunition, and drones.
Awe said the seizures were possible because of the eagle-eyed vigilance of his officers and strict adherence to 100% cargo examination protocols.
He further highlighted the deep historical ties between the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies, stressing the need for continuous cooperation.
According to him, we all know that aside from the military, most security agencies, including the police, serve as the foundation for other law enforcement bodies, saying for instance, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) originated from the Nigeria Customs Service.
He said this shows that their responsibilities are interconnected, and their collaboration is essential for national security.
CP Jimoh, in response, further reiterated the importance of security agencies working together to support the Federal Government’s economic policies, including the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and other business-friendly initiatives.
He assured that the Lagos State Police Command remains committed to ensuring a safe environment for business operations while also prioritising national security.
Jimoh said at this level, they do not have issues with cooperation, their responsibility is to ensure that officers at all levels align with this vision and understand the importance of collaboration, saying Lagos, as a center of excellence, demands nothing less than excellent performance from all security agencies.
He said their role is to protect government investments and ensure that the state and federal governments achieve their desired objectives.
The visits marked a significant step towards enhancing collaboration and cooperation between the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Nigerian Police Force, with the ultimate goal of ensuring the security and prosperity of Lagos State and the nation at large.