In a strategic move to fortify Nigeria’s economic defences, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has called for a deeper operational alliance with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to dismantle criminal networks threatening the nation’s financial stability.
The appeal was made on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, during a courtesy visit by the Acting Zonal Director of the EFCC’s Lagos Directorate 1, Assistant Commander Adebayo Adeniyi, to the Zonal Coordinator of the NCS Zone A, Assistant Comptroller-General Mohammed Babandede.
During the high-level meeting, Adeniyi emphasised that the Nigeria Customs Service remains a cornerstone in the ongoing crusade against financial malfeasance. He noted that the synergy between the two organisations is the primary mechanism for disrupting syndicates that stifle national growth.
“The EFCC places a high value on strategic partnerships with sister agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service. Through intelligence sharing and joint operations, we can more effectively tackle economic and financial crimes and safeguard Nigeria’s economic interests,” Adeniyi stated.
He further urged the Customs Service to maintain its technical support, specifically focusing on the tracking of individuals under investigation. “We want you to continue supporting us in the best way you can via data analysis, information sharing, and watch-listing of suspects,” he added.
In his response, Assistant Comptroller-General Babandede lauded the EFCC for its unrelenting efforts to sanitise the country’s economic landscape. He assured the delegation that the NCS is fully prepared to align its resources with the EFCC’s mandate to ensure comprehensive border security and financial integrity.
“The Nigeria Customs Service remains committed to working closely with the EFCC to curb smuggling, revenue leakages, and other forms of economic sabotage. Our collaboration is essential to achieving a safer and more prosperous Nigeria,” Babandede said.
The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to a unified front against economic saboteurs, signalling a new phase of inter-agency cooperation in Lagos.
