The Nigeria Customs Service is set to strengthen its enforcement capabilities by deploying artificial intelligence, advanced scanners, and electronic cargo tracking systems. This move aims to combat smuggling, internal corruption, and emerging security threats. According to Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, the service must adopt technology, inter-agency collaboration, and professional policing to address sophisticated criminal networks.
Adeniyi emphasized the need for customs officers to be held accountable for their actions, ensuring that police powers are exercised within the law, with restraint, and respect for human rights. He made these remarks at the inaugural Customs Police Summit 2026 in Abuja, where measures to reposition the Customs Police Unit for effective internal discipline and border enforcement were outlined.
The Comptroller-General highlighted the increasing sophistication of criminal networks that exploit legitimate trade routes to smuggle firearms, narcotics, counterfeit medicines, protected wildlife, and illicit funds, often through digital channels. He stressed that customs administration must facilitate legitimate trade while stopping illicit trade, which requires a disciplined and trusted police unit.
Adeniyi identified technology as a central component in improving intelligence gathering, investigations, and operational efficiency. He cited the B’Odogwu digital platform, which integrates declarations, valuation, and risk management processes, and the INTERPOL Data Centre at the Customs Headquarters as key tools for strengthening intelligence-led operations.
However, Adeniyi cautioned against relying solely on technology, emphasizing that human judgment and established legal procedures must not be replaced. He noted that algorithms may flag risks, but only officers acting within the law can exercise enforcement powers, with audit trails, data protection, and human oversight.
The Comptroller-General called for a review of the Customs Police Unit’s original responsibilities, particularly monitoring containers in transit, as technological developments provide better ways to track cargo movements. He also stressed the need for internal accountability, stating that the service must demonstrate integrity among its personnel.
Adeniyi outlined three strategic pillars for strengthening the unit: consolidation, collaboration, and innovation. He urged participants to develop a comprehensive Customs Police doctrine anchored on the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023 and the Revised Arusha Declaration, and emphasized the importance of sustained cooperation and intelligence sharing among relevant agencies.
Key points
- The Nigeria Customs Service will deploy AI, scanners, and electronic cargo tracking systems to combat smuggling and corruption.
- The service will strengthen internal accountability and professional policing to address emerging security threats.
- The Customs Police Unit will reassess its traditional operational responsibilities to improve efficiency.
