The Oyo/Osun Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has continued to strengthen partnerships with traditional institutions to combat smuggling within its area of responsibility.
The collaboration was further reinforced when the Acting Customs Area Controller, DC Wale Moses Adewole, paid a familiarisation visit to the palaces of the Onigbeti of Igbeti, Oba Engr. Bashir Olalekan; the Iba of Kishi, Oba Dr. Masoud Lawal Oyekola Aweda; and the Okere of Saki, Oba Dr. Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Ayinla, in Oyo State on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
At the palace of Oba Olalekan, DC Adewole and his delegation were warmly received by the monarch and his chiefs.
In his remarks, the royal father acknowledged the critical role of the NCS in revenue generation, facilitation of legitimate trade, suppression of smuggling, and protection of national borders.
He assured the Controller of the community’s continued support, particularly in sensitising residents on the dangers and economic consequences of smuggling.
In his response, DC Adewole expressed appreciation for the warm reception and commended the community for its sustained cooperation with officers of the Command.
He emphasised the importance of continued partnership in enhancing operational efficiency, discouraging youth involvement in illegal trade, and addressing social vices such as drug abuse.
During his visit to the palace of the Iba of Kishi, the Acting CAC reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with the traditional institution and the community.
Adewole commended the people of Kishi for their engagement in local rice production and discouraged the smuggling of foreign parboiled rice, noting the presence of a functional rice mill in the area.
He also appreciated the support extended to the Command’s patrol teams in carrying out their statutory duties.
On his part, Oba Aweda expressed appreciation for the visit and recognition accorded to his community by the Service.
He assured DC Adewole of the community’s resolve to promote lawful trade and discourage all forms of illegal activities that could undermine national economic growth.
Similarly, at the palace of Oba Ayinla, the Controller and his delegation, alongside other security agencies, were warmly received.
He highlighted the vital role of traditional institutions in maintaining peace and order and commended the people of Saki for their law-abiding nature.
In his response, the Okere of Saki expressed gratitude for the visit and called for the establishment of a Customs presence in the area to enhance trade facilitation.
He equally assured the Controller of the community’s continued support.
