The traditional ruler of Imeko, Oba Benjamin Alabi Olanite, and residents of the border town in Ogun State have appealed to the federal government to establish a training school for the Nigeria Customs Service. This appeal was made at a press conference marking the 2026 annual Imeko Festival. The community leaders and eminent Imeko indigenes, including Professor Anthony Asiwaju and Dr. Dele Ogunsiji, raised concerns over educational challenges in the border community.
Imeko, a frontier community, has played a significant role in Nigeria's border administration dating back to the colonial era. Oba Olanite argued that the town's historical and geographical position made it suitable for a specialised training institution. He suggested that the government consider establishing a training school for either the Customs Service or Immigration Service in Imeko. The community is willing to support the establishment of a federal institution, including providing land and other necessary assistance.
Professor Anthony Asiwaju appealed to governments at all levels to give proper attention to communities located along Nigeria's international borders. He emphasised the need for attention in education, security, economic development, and infrastructure. Asiwaju also called on the Border Communities Development Agency to increase its interventions in Imeko, as residents have yet to sufficiently feel the impact of the agency.
The theme for the celebration, "Preserving Our Heritage: Fostering Love, Unity and an Empowered Future," tagged 'Imeko Agbinrekoti Festival,' highlights Imeko's historical role in frontier administration. Asiwaju said this role should be reflected in the scale of government investment in the town. The community leaders and residents are seeking a greater investment in the town, given its historical significance.
Dr. Dele Ogunsiji commended Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola for sponsoring a bill seeking the establishment of a Federal College of Frontier and Border Studies in Imeko. He appealed to the National Assembly and Federal Government to support the initiative, expressing hope that the proposed institution would strengthen education and capacity development in the border region.
Education remains the foundation for sustainable development, according to Dr. Ogunsiji. He stressed that the challenges facing Imeko could be addressed through education and capacity development. The proposed institution would provide opportunities for residents to acquire skills and knowledge, contributing to the development of the border region.
The Imeko community's appeal for a Customs training school and increased government investment reflects the town's historical significance and the need for development in the border region. Key stakeholders, including traditional rulers, community leaders, and residents, are working together to promote the establishment of a federal institution in Imeko.
Key points
- Imeko's historical role in frontier administration makes it suitable for a specialised training institution.
- The community is willing to support the establishment of a federal institution, including providing land and other necessary assistance.
- Education remains the foundation for sustainable development in the border region.
