In a renewed effort to enhance national security and promote seamless trade, the Customs Area Controller (CAC) of the Nigeria Customs Service, Seme Area Command, Comptroller Timi Wale Adenuga, has launched a series of strategic stakeholder engagements aimed at revitalizing operations along the Abidjan-Lagos corridor.
At a high-level meeting convened at the Seme Border on Monday, Comptroller Adenuga emphasized the critical role of collaboration among security agencies, border communities, and trade groups in ensuring secure and efficient cross-border movement.
“We want everyone to speak freely and tell ourselves the bitter truths. The more we facilitate legitimate trade, the better it is for our country. When trade thrives, crime reduces. This is the vision of our Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, who has continued to champion a legacy of trade facilitation and a conducive economic environment,” Adenuga stated.
Seme Command In Focus
Reaffirming the strategic importance of the Seme Area Command, Comptroller Adenuga reminded participants that the border serves as a pivotal gateway for regional trade in West Africa. He reiterated that peace, order, and adherence to international standards are indispensable to unlocking the full potential of the corridor.
He drew attention to the adverse impact of multiple checkpoints along the Seme-Badagry route, describing them as major obstacles to smooth trade and legitimate travel.
“Too many checkpoints are not only counterproductive but also discourage investment and tourism. All agencies must align with the laws and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) governing their operations,” he said.
Key Resolutions And Commitments
The meeting witnessed broad participation, including:
Traditional Rulers: Aholu of Kweme Kingdom, Oba Sejiro Olalekan James; Onibereko of Ibereko, Oba Israel Adewale Okoya
Diplomatic Representation: Col. S.B. Yahaya, Defence Attaché at the Nigeria Embassy in Porto-Novo, representing the Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic
Heads of security, military, paramilitary, and intelligence agencies
Community leaders, youth representatives, and trade associations
Some of the key resolutions from the four-hour dialogue include:
Reduction of checkpoints along Seme-Badagry route to speed up trade and ease movement
Immediate removal of unauthorized individuals, often referred to as “camp boys”, from checkpoints due to their role in obstructing and harassing travelers
Reaffirmation of respect for travelers’ rights and dignity, while prioritizing national security and unity
Commitment to continue engagements and uphold the momentum of cooperation established
Advocacy For Local Development
Comptroller Adenuga also pledged to convey the plight of the Seme community to the Customs management. He highlighted the urgent need to: Complete the ongoing Customs Secondary School project
Restore electricity supply to the area, which has remained in darkness for seven years due to vandalism of power infrastructure
Sustaining The Momentum
The stakeholders unanimously agreed to sustain the spirit of collaboration and dialogue initiated by the CAC. They expressed confidence in Comptroller Adenuga’s leadership and his commitment to making Seme a model command for cross-border cooperation, trade facilitation, and security.