In a transformative move aimed at strengthening border management and enhancing trade facilitation, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the dissolution of the Joint Border Patrol Team (JBPT) and unveiled a revamped enforcement strategy for 2025.
This development is designed to address evolving challenges in border security and trade while leveraging modern technology and intelligence-driven operations.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, announced the dissolution of the Joint Border Patrol Team and the introduction of a new enforcement strategy after thorough consultations with the Office of the National Security Adviser.
In a statement signed by the Service spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, the NCS outlined that the revamped strategy aims to simplify operations, eliminate trade obstacles, and intensify efforts to combat smuggling.
“This development underscores the Service’s commitment to leveraging innovative, intelligence-driven approaches for effective border enforcement and anti-smuggling operations,” said Comptroller General Adeniyi.
“We are reducing the number of customs checkpoints across the country and adopting advanced geospatial tools and technologies to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.”
The JBPT, launched in 2019 under the code name “Ex-Swift Response,” was initially established to enforce the partial border closure policy aimed at curbing the influx of dangerous goods and ensuring compliance with Nigeria’s trade and security regulations. Over the years, the team has played a critical role in safeguarding the nation’s land borders. However, the NCS believes that the time has come to modernise and integrate enforcement operations into a broader strategic framework.
“The NCS acknowledges and deeply appreciates the cooperation and dedication of other government agencies that partnered in this endeavour,” the statement read. “Their invaluable contributions have been instrumental in safeguarding Nigeria’s land borders.”
The 2025 strategy emphasises actionable intelligence and strategic risk management frameworks as cornerstones of its operations. By utilising data-driven methods, the NCS aims to strengthen border security while facilitating the movement of legitimate goods and people.
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The Service assured stakeholders that these measures would not compromise security but rather represent a significant step towards modernising customs operations and improving trade compliance.
“We are committed to ensuring that our enforcement strategies align with global best practices,” Adeniyi added.
“This approach will allow us to combat smuggling more effectively, enhance legitimate trade, and secure our borders while supporting economic growth.”
Trade and security stakeholders have expressed optimism about the new strategy. A member of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), who spoke on the condition of anonymity, noted, “The reduction of customs checkpoints and reliance on intelligence-driven operations will reduce delays and enhance business operations. This is a welcome development for manufacturers and exporters.”
Similarly, a representative of the Border Communities Development Agency commended the NCS’s move, describing it as a “step in the right direction” for addressing security concerns while promoting economic activities in border regions.
Comptroller General Adeniyi called on stakeholders to support the fight against economic saboteurs and to collaborate with the Service in securing Nigeria’s borders. “Our mission remains clear: to protect the nation, facilitate legitimate trade, and ensure the well-being of all Nigerians,” he stated.
