Customs Boss Engages Traditional Rulers in Oyo Communities to Strengthen Anti-Smuggling Efforts

The Acting Customs Area Controller of the Oyo/Osun Area Command, DC Wale Moses Adewole, has embarked on a strategic engagement with traditional rulers in Oyo State, aimed at collaboration between the Nigeria Customs Service and local communities in tackling smuggling and promoting lawful trade.

Adewole paid a familiarisation visit to the palaces of the Onigbeti of Igbeti, Oba Bashir Olalekan; the Iba of Kishi, Oba Masoud Lawal Oyekola Aweda; and the Okere of Saki, Oba Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Ayinla, as part of efforts to deepen partnerships with traditional institutions across the command’s operational area.

At Igbeti, the Onigbeti commended the Nigeria Customs Service for its role in revenue generation, trade facilitation, and border security. He pledged the community’s continued support, particularly in sensitising residents on the economic dangers of smuggling.

Responding, Adewole appreciated the warm reception and lauded the community’s cooperation with Customs officers. He stressed the need for sustained collaboration to enhance operational efficiency, discourage youth involvement in illegal trade, and combat social vices such as drug abuse.

During his visit to Kishi, the Customs boss reaffirmed the command’s commitment to strengthening ties with the community.

He commended local rice production efforts and cautioned against the smuggling of foreign parboiled rice, noting the presence of a functional rice mill in the area. He also acknowledged the support given to Customs patrol teams.

The Iba of Kishi, in his remarks, expressed appreciation for the visit and assured the Customs Service of the community’s commitment to promoting lawful trade and discouraging illegal activities that could undermine economic growth.

In Saki, Adewole, alongside other security agencies, was received by the Okere of Saki, who highlighted the importance of traditional institutions in maintaining peace and order.

The monarch called for the establishment of a Customs presence in the area to enhance trade facilitation and pledged continued support for the agency’s operations.

The engagement underscores the Nigeria Customs Service’s ongoing efforts to strengthen grassroots partnerships in its fight against smuggling and in fostering economic development.