Seme Customs Advances Smart Border Policing
For years, border enforcement has relied heavily on patrols, checkpoints and physical inspections. However, the Seme Area Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) is embracing a more intelligence-driven approach that combines technology, data analysis and risk assessment to strengthen border security while facilitating legitimate trade.
Under the leadership of Comptroller Abdullahi Kaila, the Command is aligning with the Nigeria Customs Service’s modernisation agenda by shifting from traditional enforcement to predictive, technology-based operations.
A major milestone was the recently concluded Operation GEOCONTROL, a joint Nigeria-Benin Customs operation supported by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). The operation marked the first WCO-led deployment of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) as a core Customs enforcement tool.
Using drones, GIS mapping, the WCO Geoportal, secure communication systems and risk profiling, officers from both countries identified high-risk smuggling routes and coordinated enforcement actions across the shared border. The operation resulted in 37 seizures, including narcotics, pharmaceuticals, petroleum products and other contraband.
Beyond the seizures, the operation demonstrated the growing value of intelligence-led border management. Rather than relying solely on physical searches, Customs can now predict high-risk movements, allowing compliant traders to enjoy faster cargo clearance while enforcement resources are focused on genuine threats.
Comptroller Kaila has consistently prioritised intelligence-driven enforcement, stakeholder collaboration and revenue protection. Between March and May 2026, the Seme Command generated ₦9.798 billion in revenue, a significant increase from ₦2.188 billion recorded during the same period in 2025. He attributed the growth to stronger compliance measures, improved operational efficiency, stakeholder engagement, anti-revenue leakage initiatives and the deployment of the B’Odogwu Unified Customs Management System.
The Command has also strengthened collaboration with traditional rulers, security agencies, customs brokers, freight forwarders, transport unions, importers and exporters to enhance intelligence gathering and remove trade barriers along the Lagos-Abidjan corridor.
Operation GEOCONTROL further highlighted the importance of cross-border cooperation, with Nigerian and Beninese Customs officers sharing intelligence and coordinating operations in real time. This collaborative approach recognises that smuggling networks operate across borders and require equally coordinated enforcement responses.
As Customs continues to adopt technologies such as GEOINT, drones and data analytics, the Seme Area Command is positioning itself as a model for intelligence-led border management. The focus is no longer on the number of checkpoints or physical inspections, but on precision, risk-based enforcement and the seamless facilitation of legitimate trade. Under Comptroller Kaila, Seme is steadily redefining border security through technology, intelligence and strategic partnerships.
