The Kebbi Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) have reinforced their partnership to enhance border management and overall security.
The partnership was renewed on Thursday when the Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Mahmoud Matawalle Ibrahim, hosted the newly posted Comptroller of the NIS in Kebbi, Comptroller Mohammed Lawal Hayatuddeen, at the Command headquarters.
In his remarks, Comptroller Hayatuddeen expressed deep appreciation to the CAC for the warm and befitting reception accorded to him from the point of arrival, describing the gesture as exemplary and commendable.
He noted that the Comptroller Ibrahim was the first to officially welcome him upon his arrival at the airport and also facilitated seamless engagement with other security agencies within the state.
Hayatuddeen described the Kebbi Customs boss as humble, approachable, and easy-going, stressing that the qualities have significantly enhanced cooperation and mutual understanding among security agencies in the state.
He urged younger officers to emulate the CAC’s leadership style, professionalism, and conduct, describing him as an experienced and well-educated officer of the Nigeria Customs Service.
The Immigration Comptroller further charged senior officers across both Services to take deliberate responsibility for the welfare of their junior officers by encouraging and mentoring them rather than embarrassing or demoralising them.
He explained that maintaining a healthy mental state among officers is crucial to improving efficiency, productivity, and overall service delivery.
He reiterated his commitment to improved collaboration, intelligence sharing, and sustained inter-agency cooperation in the interest of effective border management and national security.
In his response, Comptroller Ibrahim stated that the visit aligns with the policy thrust of the Comptroller-General of Customs, CGC Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, anchored on collaboration, consolidation, and innovation.
He recalled the loss of lives and service assets suffered by both Services along the Maje axis in Bagudo Local Government Area — and commended the improved cooperation and strategic deployment that have enabled continued operations in the area.
He stressed the need for sustained intelligence sharing, enhanced inter-agency collaboration, and effective coordination among all security agencies to strengthen border security and safeguard national interests.
