Nigeria Customs Service is piloting new technology at Seme-Krake border to curb smuggling and improve goods transit with Benin Republic, says CG Adewale Adeniyi

[dropcap]C[/dropcap]ustoms deploys technology to tackle smuggling between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin as part of a broader strategy to secure the nation’s borders and streamline cross-border trade.

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The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, revealed this during a working visit to the Ogun II Area Command in Abeokuta on Wednesday.

According to Adeniyi, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has developed and is currently piloting a technological solution at the Seme-Krake border, which is expected to transform how goods in transit are managed and significantly reduce smuggling activities once fully rolled out.

“We are going to deploy technology to manage transporting between the two countries. We have already developed it; we are only piloting it now at Seme-Krake border,” Adeniyi said.

“By the time we finish the piloting, once it is successful, we are going to deploy it along the borders, it will help us to reduce smuggling.”

The customs boss emphasised the importance of collaboration with neighbouring countries, especially the Republic of Benin.

He noted that consistent engagement and information sharing between both customs services had laid the foundation for improved border operations.

“We have a robust relationship with border countries. I have been to Republic of Benin to meet with my colleague over there, and since then we have had opportunities to work together on a number of issues,” he added.

Adeniyi also highlighted the critical role that local border communities play in intelligence gathering, praising the existing cordial relations between customs officials and residents.

“All our customs commands around the borders are encouraged to have structures through which they relate to members of the community.

We operate there, we live with them, and we also acknowledge the fact that they know the terrain,” he said.

During the visit, Adeniyi commended Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for his efforts in repositioning the state for industrial development.

He affirmed that the Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to supporting economic prosperity across the country.

Earlier, the Area Controller of Ogun II Area Command, Bisi Alade, reported that the command generated over ₦15 billion in revenue during the first quarter of 2025.