…Adeniyi pushes coordinated global action against transnational crime

By Adebola Isimijola.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has stepped up its international security engagement, as Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, joined global stakeholders at the 19th Defence Services Asia Exhibition and Conference 2026 in Kuala Lumpur.

The high-level forum, held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre, brought together over 1,400 firms and key players in defence technology, homeland security and electronic warfare. It was declared open by Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim.

Speaking at a strategic Police–Private Security Dialogue under the Asia Pacific Security Association Malaysia International Security Summit 2026, Adeniyi called for a decisive shift from isolated national efforts to coordinated global responses in tackling cross-border crimes.

He warned that the increasing complexity of transnational criminal networks demands stronger collaboration among enforcement agencies worldwide.

“Crime has outgrown borders. Enforcement must evolve beyond isolated actions to coordinated global strategies anchored on intelligence sharing and joint operations,” he said.

The Customs boss identified drug trafficking, financial crimes, wildlife smuggling and terrorism financing as interconnected threats requiring unified responses.

Outlining the NCS approach, Adeniyi emphasised a three-point strategy focused on technology-driven enforcement, strengthened institutional partnerships and continuous capacity building for personnel.

He further highlighted the role of frameworks developed by the World Customs Organization in guiding member nations to effectively combat cross-border crimes.

Participants at the session cited manpower gaps, obsolete tools and the rise of tech-driven crime as major challenges confronting enforcement agencies. They stressed the need for deeper cooperation among governments, private security operators and international bodies, including INTERPOL.

They also advocated enhanced intelligence gathering, community engagement and sustained global partnerships to strengthen security architecture.

On the sidelines, Adeniyi held bilateral talks with customs administrations from the Asia-Pacific and the Americas to boost operational cooperation and knowledge exchange.

He reaffirmed the Service’s commitment to expanding international collaboration, noting that such partnerships are vital to securing borders, protecting national economic interests and preserving the integrity of global trade.