By Fredrick Ameh
The Nigeria Customs Service has strengthened its maritime enforcement capacity with the deployment of seven patrol vessels to its Western Marine Command.
This move marks a renewed push to combat smuggling and secure critical waterways.
Announcing the deployment, Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi said the addition of two gunboats and five logistics vessels is aimed at boosting surveillance, rapid response, and operational coverage across key maritime corridors.
Command Comptroller Patrick Ntadi described the deployment as a strategic upgrade that will significantly enhance anti-smuggling operations and deter economic sabotage along Nigeria’s waterways.
He noted that the expanded fleet addresses previous logistical gaps and positions officers for more effective enforcement.
To ensure optimal use of the new assets, officers recently underwent specialized training facilitated by SEWA Africa Ltd, focusing on vessel handling, safety, and operational efficiency.
The initiative underscores the Customs’ broader strategy of combining modern equipment, capacity building, and inter-agency collaboration to strengthen maritime security and protect national revenue streams.