Customs seizes drugs, rice, fuel in joint Nigeria-Benin border operation

By Adebola Muili

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has recorded six major seizure cases involving narcotics, pharmaceuticals, rice, petroleum products and used clothing during a joint border security operation with Benin Customs, while four suspects were detained.

The seizures were recorded during Operation GEOCONTROL, conducted between June 29 and July 8, 2026, along the Benin-Nigeria border corridor under the World Customs Organisation (WCO)-Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Joint Project.

The operation also saw Benin Customs record 31 seizures across 10 targeted areas, highlighting the role of cross-border cooperation and intelligence-led enforcement in tackling smuggling and other illicit activities.

The NCS disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, who said the exercise demonstrated the practical application of geospatial intelligence in identifying smuggling hotspots and strengthening border surveillance.

According to the Service, the operation was the first field deployment of geospatial intelligence capabilities developed through the GEOINT Master Trainer Programme for West Africa, which was completed in February 2026.

The exercise combined geographical data analysis, hotspot mapping, aerial surveillance, intelligence sharing and coordinated field operations to identify vulnerable border locations and improve the deployment of enforcement personnel.

The NCS said the approach enabled both Customs administrations to strengthen operational coordination and direct enforcement resources towards areas identified as high-risk routes for smuggling.

It added that the exchange of operational information and the use of multiple risk maps supported intelligence-driven field activities, while providing an opportunity to apply skills acquired through the GEOINT training programme to practical enforcement challenges.

The Service noted that the outcomes underscored the importance of cooperation between neighbouring countries in combating transnational smuggling, protecting government revenue and safeguarding legitimate commercial activities.

It also said the operation demonstrated how technology, intelligence sharing and coordinated planning could improve Customs enforcement along shared borders.

The post-operation report, dated August 2, 2026, documented the results of the joint deployment and lessons arising from the exercise.

The NCS reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with international partners and neighbouring Customs administrations to improve border security, deepen intelligence sharing and facilitate legitimate trade.

It added that it would continue to deploy technological tools, professional expertise and joint enforcement arrangements to combat smuggling and contribute to a safer and more efficient trading environment.