By Femi Anamelechi
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Lilypond Export Command, and the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in a joint efforts reared toward foght on drug trafficking have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening inter-agency collaboration in the fight against illicit drug trafficking and other cross-border criminal activities This waa disclosed in press statement issued by the Command’s public relations officer, Assistant Superintendent of Customs I, Bukola Olusola-Oke, The renewed partnership was poibted out on Tuesday, 4 August 2026, when the newly deployed Commander of the NDLEA Export Command, Commander Zubairu Bada, led a delegation of deputy commanders and senior officers on a courtesy visit to the Customs Area Controller (CAC), Lilypond Export Command, Comptroller Samuel Ariyibi. Speaking during the visit, Commander Bada described the engagement as a strategic step towards consolidating the long-standing relationship between both agencies. He appreciated the warm reception accorded to his team, commended the cordial working relationship maintained with his predecessors and appealed for its continuity. He also requested a sensitisation programme for Customs officers on the dangers of drug abuse.Commander Bada said the NDLEA had established operational strategies to sustain public enlightenment on the dangers of drug abuse, stressing that tackling the menace requires collective action. He noted that, “a drug addict is a danger to himself and society.”In, his response Comptroller Ariyibi welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the strong partnership between the Nigeria Customs Service and the NDLEA. He assured the Agency of the Command’s continued support and pledged to organise a sensitisation exercise for officers on drug abuse and its implications.He further pointed that suppressing smuggling remains one of the core mandates of the Nigeria Customs Service. He pledged the Command’s unwavering commitment to strengthening collaboration with the NDLEA in combating illicit drug trafficking and other forms of transnational crime.The visit concluded with the presentation of a commemorative plaque, symbolising the shared resolve of both agencies to deepen operational synergy in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders and protecting society from the threat of illicit drugs.
