The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Defence Research and Development Bureau (DRDB) have successfully tested a locally built airboat aimed at enhancing maritime security and anti-smuggling operations. The trial exercise was conducted on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at Jabi Lake, Abuja.
The indigenous vessel, engineered to operate effectively in shallow and difficult-to-access waterways, was inspected and test-run by officers from both agencies. Experts on ground described the boat’s maneuverability as a breakthrough that could give Nigeria an edge in combating smuggling activities across inland waterways.
Speaking during the exercise, Comptroller Haniel Haddison, who oversees Special Duties at the NCS Headquarters, described the innovation as a milestone in local technology development. He commended the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, for fostering synergy between security agencies and investing in modern solutions.
“This is a welcome idea for the Nigeria Customs Service, and we commend the efforts of the Comptroller-General of Customs to ensure that we add value in our equipment,” Haddison said. “This is a very good collaboration, and that is what the Comptroller-General of Customs stands for—synergy and collaboration with sister agencies, particularly as it relates to capacity building. This will add value to the competency and capability of the Nigeria Customs Service.”
Also speaking, Rear Admiral Suleiman El-Ladan, Director of Maritime Research and Development at the DRDB, underscored the importance of inter-agency partnerships in tackling maritime insecurity. He noted that the initiative reflects a proactive approach to addressing evolving threats to Nigeria’s waterways.
The event ended with the Director General of the DRDB presenting souvenirs to senior Customs officers in recognition of their participation and support for indigenous innovation.