The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have pledged to deepen their inter-agency collaboration to tighten border security across Borno and Yobe States.
The commitment was reaffirmed on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, during a courtesy visit by the Customs Area Controller for Borno and Yobe, Controller Abdullahi Mohammed Idris, to the OPHK Headquarters.
Leveraging Technology for Border Control
Controller Idris disclosed that the NCS has integrated Geo-Spatial Surveillance Technology across Nigeria’s land and sea borders. This technological deployment is designed to enhance real-time monitoring and rapid response capabilities against cross-border crimes.
The Controller noted that the visit aimed to consolidate the existing relationship between the NCS and the Armed Forces. He also expressed gratitude for the Nigerian Army’s historical role in the professional development of Customs personnel, specifically citing their support in establishing the Nigeria Customs Service Staff College.
The Challenge of Porous Borders
Responding to the delegation, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, emphasized that national security challenges are too complex for any single agency to handle in isolation.
”No single agency can effectively address the complex security challenges facing the country alone,” Abubakar stated, aligning his remarks with the Service Chiefs’ philosophy of “jointness” and synergy.
The Theatre Commander identified porous borders as a primary driver for the proliferation of small arms and light weapons. He underscored the vital role the NCS plays in disrupting these supply chains, which directly impact the safety of border communities.
Professionalism and Recognition
Major General Abubakar commended the NCS personnel currently attached to OPHK for their professionalism and contributions to the Joint Task Force’s mandate. The engagement concluded with a formal signing of the visitors’ register and an exchange of souvenirs, signaling a continued united front against regional insecurity.
