The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Ogun Area I Command, has intensified efforts to combat smuggling and cross-border crimes, calling for stronger collaboration with traditional institutions in Yewa land.

Acting Controller of the Command, Olukayode Afeni, made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the Paramount Ruler of Yewa, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, at his palace in Ilaro.

Afeni stressed that the mandate of the Service—ranging from revenue generation and trade facilitation to border security and enforcement of fiscal policies—must be protected from the activities of criminal networks operating within border communities.

He expressed concern over the increasing involvement of youths in illicit activities, including drug abuse, arms smuggling, and trafficking of prohibited goods, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to both security and economic stability in the region.

According to him, tackling such challenges requires grassroots engagement, urging traditional rulers to step up sensitisation campaigns aimed at discouraging young people from engaging in illegal ventures.

“Our youths must understand that engaging in smuggling and drug-related activities is not only illegal but also harmful to their future and the development of our society,” Afeni said.

He noted that community-based advocacy, driven by trusted local leaders, remains a critical tool in addressing the root causes of crime, particularly in border areas where enforcement alone may not be sufficient.

Responding, Oba Olugbenle commended the Customs Command for its proactive outreach and reaffirmed the commitment of traditional institutions to supporting security agencies.

The monarch pledged continued collaboration to maintain peace and order, emphasising the role of traditional leadership in promoting discipline and safeguarding communities.

The engagement signals a growing recognition of the need for multi-stakeholder partnerships in addressing complex security challenges along Nigeria’s borders.