Katsina Customs Reinforces Border Security Drive With DSS, Army, NIS

ZAINAB JUNAID

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Katsina Area Command, has stepped up efforts to combat cross-border crimes by strengthening inter-agency collaboration with key security agencies in the State, adopting robust defense mechanism to safeguard Nigeria’s borders and national interests.

This development followed a recent visit to the Command by senior officials of the Department of State Services, the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Immigration Service on Friday, 13 February 2026.

While addressing the delegations, Customs Area Controller (CAC), Comptroller Muhammad Saidu, acknowledged the importance of joint efforts in effective border management, as the security agencies each pledged operational support to strengthen border enforcement.

Comptroller Saidu described the visits as timely and strategic, noting that effective border management requires seamless intelligence sharing and coordinated action.

“Our mandate cannot be executed in isolation. When security agencies work in synergy, intelligence becomes more effective, operations become more precise, and our borders become less vulnerable to criminal exploitation.” He said.

He reiterated that the Command remains committed to professionalism, transparency and sustained collaboration in protecting the nation’s economic interests.

The CAC further emphasised the need for timely exchange to curb economic sabotage, saying, “National security is a collective responsibility. We are committed to working closely with Customs to ensure that criminal networks do not exploit our borders.”

Similarly, the Commander of the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ishaya Ibrahim, reaffirmed the Army’s readiness to provide operational backing whenever necessary.

“Synergy among security agencies remains vital in addressing emerging security challenges, particularly in border communities. The Nigerian Army will continue to collaborate with the Nigeria Customs Service to maintain peace, protect our territorial integrity and support lawful trade.”

Also speaking, the Comptroller of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Katsina Command, Tanko Dogara, pledged enhanced cooperation in migration control and border patrol.

The Immigration boss stressed the importance of coordinated patrols and effective monitoring of both official and unofficial routes, saying, “Our partnership is crucial in safeguarding our borders and ensuring compliance with immigration and customs regulations.”