By Joy Enamuna
The Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service Federal Operations Unit, Zone A, Comptroller Gambo, has said the command is shifting from reactive enforcement operations to predictive enforcement through the deployment of geospatial intelligence technology to strengthen border security and curb smuggling activities nationwide.
Gambo disclosed this on Wednesday while receiving newly elected executives of the Maritime Reporters Association of Nigeria during a courtesy visit to the command headquarters in Lagos.
According to him, the transition forms part of ongoing reforms introduced by the Comptroller-General of Customs to enhance intelligence-driven operations and improve the success rate of anti-smuggling interventions across the country.
The Customs boss explained that the adoption of Geo-Intelligence technology would enable the command to accurately map smuggling routes, improve operational precision and ensure better deployment of resources.
“We are at the point of transiting from reactive enforcement to predictive enforcement. We are leaning towards GeoINT because it gives us more predictability and allows us to geomap routes for a more targeted approach at our interdictions,” he said.
Gambo noted that the unit had previously relied largely on Open Source Intelligence and Human Intelligence, adding that the integration of geospatial intelligence would significantly improve intelligence gathering and operational efficiency.
He said the Federal Operations Unit remained committed to protecting the integrity of the port corridor through strategic interventions and coordinated enforcement operations with other formations of the Nigeria Customs Service.
The comptroller further disclosed that the command had intensified anti-smuggling operations across major border corridors, recording several seizures involving illicit drugs and prohibited items.
Giving an update on recent operations, Gambo revealed that the command intercepted over 800 parcels of cannabis between May 5 and May 21, 2026, alongside synthetic cannabis strains known as “skunk” and quantities of crystal meth.
He also stated that the unit had foiled 674 smuggling attempts since he assumed office as Comptroller of FOU Zone A.
“As we speak, operatives are on the field carrying out operations. These are critical times and we are determined to contribute our quota towards keeping society safe,” he added.
Gambo linked the increasing circulation of illicit drugs to rising insecurity, banditry and other criminal activities across the country, stressing that Customs operations play a critical role in national security and public safety.
He added that the unit was also enforcing environmental protection measures by intercepting ozone-depleting substances as well as prohibited refrigerator and air-conditioner compressors imported in violation of international environmental regulations.
The comptroller reaffirmed the command’s commitment to enforcing government fiscal policies, protecting legitimate trade and preventing the importation of prohibited goods into the country.
He commended MARAN for its contributions to maritime journalism and public enlightenment, describing the association as a key stakeholder in the maritime sector.
“It is particularly heartwarming to note that MARAN is one of the critical stakeholders in our resolve to protect the frontiers of Nigeria. We appreciate the pivotal role that you play,” he said.
Gambo also pledged support for the association’s capacity-building initiatives, noting that continuous professional development remained vital for responsible and effective journalism.
Earlier, MARAN President, Mr Oluyinka Onigbinde, said the visit was aimed at strengthening collaboration between the association and the Federal Operations Unit in the fight against smuggling and economic sabotage.
He assured the command of the association’s continued support through balanced and professional reportage of Customs activities and policies.
The visit featured the presentation of souvenirs, signing of the visitors’ register and group photographs between MARAN executives and the management of FOU Zone A.
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