LSSTF ES/CEO, Ogunsan Urges Sustained Fight Against Smuggling, Transnational Crime; as Customs FOU Zone A’s Comptroller Afeni Pays Courtesy Visit
By Oki O. Samson, Trek Africa Newspaper
Modern security challenges are becoming increasingly interconnected, cutting across territorial borders, commercial corridors and the operational jurisdictions of government agencies. From the trafficking of prohibited goods and the proliferation of illicit weapons to the sophisticated networks that exploit gaps in law enforcement, these threats underscore the urgency of a more integrated security framework.
This formed the scope of discussions when the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) led by Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone ‘A’, Comptroller Oladapo Olukayode Afeni, paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Secretary/CEO of Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), Dr. Ayodele Ogunsan, in his office at Alausa-Secretariat, Ikeja, Lagos. The meeting explored opportunities for a stronger working relationship in Lagos and to reinforce the broader national security architecture.
In his welcome remarks during the courtesy visit, the ES/CEO of LSSTF, Dr. Ogunsan expressed enthusiasm about the prospects of a mutually beneficial relationship between the two institutions. “There are a lot of things we could do together,” Ogunsan said, signalling the Fund’s readiness to explore areas of cooperation with the Nigerian Customs Service, particularly in strengthening security operations through improved equipment, logistics and institutional support.
According to him, the work of security extends beyond conventional policing and military operations to include the activities of agencies responsible for preventing the entry of prohibited goods, intercepting illicit consignments and enforcing laws governing the movement of goods across Nigeria’s borders, citing that “the Service’s enforcement adds an important layer to efforts aimed at safeguarding lives, protecting public institutions and maintaining security.”
With a relatable experience for many Nigerians, Ogunsan illustrated the public perception of Customs enforcement. He recalled an occasion whereby a driver traveling at full speed became apprehensive when he noticed Customs officers on the road. He noted that the visibility and presence of Customs officers often plays a critical role in preventing criminal elements from exploiting importation channels to introduce dangerous or prohibited items into the country. This demonstrates the deterrent value and law enforcement that can happen, particularly when officers are perceived as being committed to ensuring compliance with the law.
On his part, the Comptroller of the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Nigerian Customs Service, Oladapo Olukayode Afeni thanked the LSSTF CEO for his warm reception indicative of his desire to establish a working relationship with LSSTF in line with their shared security objectives. He explained that the Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, under his leadership was responsible for anti-smuggling operations and enforcement across the South-West, with its headquarters in Lagos. “I believe we can synergise to ensure that Lagos is free and, by extension, the entire South-West is free of crime,” he said.
Afeni hailed his principal, Comptroller-General of Customs, CG Bashir Adewale Adeniyi for his staunch leadership which has placed national ideals and border security on the front burner.
