The Nigerian army on Friday, February 13, announced its partnership with the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to launch surveillance tools aimed at curbing arms trafficking in Borno and Yobe states.
The partnership, carried out within the scope of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), was highlighted on Thursday, during a courtesy visit by the customs area controller for Borno and Yobe states, Abdullahi Mohammed Idris, to the OPHK headquarters.
Idris explained that the collaboration aims to consolidate the existing working relationship between the Nigerian army and the NCS, ensuring a coordinated response to security challenges along the north east borders.
He noted that the NCS has deployed geo-spatial surveillance technology across Nigeria’s land and sea borders to enhance monitoring, detection, and rapid response to illicit activities, including arms trafficking.
The controller acknowledged the army’s role in supporting capacity building for customs personnel, particularly through the establishment of the NCS Staff College.
He expressed optimism that the partnership would strengthen security operations in Borno and Yobe states, enabling safer communities and more effective border management.
The theatre commander of OPHK, Abdulsalam Abubakar, commended the NCS for its critical role in safeguarding national borders.
He emphasised that a multi-agency approach is essential to tackling complex security challenges, warning that porous borders remain a key avenue for the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the region.
Abubakar also praised customs personnel deployed within OPHK for their professionalism and contributions to achieving the joint task force’s mandate.
He reaffirmed OPHK’s commitment to continued collaboration with the NCS to maintain stability and security across the north east.
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