The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) have agreed to deepen collaboration in combating human trafficking and the illegal trade in endangered species, as part of efforts to bolster national security.
The renewed partnership was highlighted on Tuesday, 28 October 2025, when the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, received the Director-General of NAPTIP, Binta Adamu, and her delegation at the Customs Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja.
In his remarks, Adeniyi reaffirmed that the Service’s enforcement priorities extend beyond smuggling to include broader issues of national and environmental security.
He emphasised that stronger inter-agency cooperation remains vital in addressing the complex dynamics of transnational crimes.
“We believe in the power of collaboration. We can achieve more with less when we work together,” he said, reiterating the Service’s readiness to strengthen operational synergy with NAPTIP.
The Customs chief also underscored the Service’s expanding role in environmental protection and compliance with international conventions on flora and fauna.
He pledged active participation in the forthcoming National Dialogue on Human Trafficking and Stowaway Incidents, scheduled for February 2026.
Adeniyi further assured NAPTIP of Customs’ commitment to intelligence sharing, technical support, and capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving understanding of trafficking networks and enhancing field operations.
“We accept your request for partnership unconditionally,” he stated. “Our teams will collaborate with your designated officials ahead of the February summit and explore wider areas of cooperation to strengthen national security.”
In her response, NAPTIP Director-General Binta Adamu described the engagement as a milestone in inter-agency relations, expressing optimism that the partnership would enhance intelligence sharing, policy coordination, and cross-border enforcement.
“We are a law enforcement agency with mandates to prevent, prosecute, and protect. Partnership with Customs is essential for our work,” she said.
Adamu noted that human trafficking remains a dynamic and evolving crime, requiring closer coordination among agencies stationed at the nation’s entry and exit points.
Former NIMASA Director of Public Relations, Lami Tumaka, who accompanied the NAPTIP delegation, explained that the visit was aimed at securing Customs’ participation in the national dialogue on human trafficking by sea and stowaway incidents.
She described the Nigeria Customs Service as a strategic player in border management and maritime enforcement, adding that its involvement would be crucial to the success of the initiative.
“Your officers are often the first line of defence against the illicit movement of goods and persons. Your nationwide presence and expertise make your partnership invaluable,” Tumaka said.
